E-Commerce Growth Reshaping Aftermarket Parts Distribution

The Auto Care Association and MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers have published the 2025 Joint E-commerce Trends and Outlook Forecast report. This report was unveiled at 2025 AAPEX and offers updated insights into consumer purchasing behaviors for automotive parts and accessories through online channels.

Market Impact

Jefferies led the research and analysis for the report, collaborating with industry experts. With continued inflation, consumers are gravitating toward online retailers for lower-priced automotive parts. The report indicates that e-commerce sales, excluding third-party marketplaces, are expected to grow 4.6% in 2025, with a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.4% from 2022 to 2030. Including sales from Amazon, eBay Motors and Walmart, total channel sales are projected to grow at a 6.7% annualized rate from 2020 to 2030.

Distribution Strategy

The implementation of technological advancements by retailers, such as logistics improvements, real-time inventory management and compatibility checks for vehicle specifications, has been pivotal in enhancing the online shopping experience for consumers.

Product Development

The report provides data on online sales for selected parts categories, noting that while some lines like HVAC experience seasonal trends, others such as brakes, steering and suspension do not. Parts categories have seen ticket amounts grow up to 6% year-over-year from 2021 to 2025, a growth mainly attributed to inflation.

Insights from Industry Leaders

Michael Chung, senior director of market intelligence at the Auto Care Association, emphasized the report’s utility in understanding consumer preferences between online-only retailers and traditional stores.

Philip Atkins, director of strategic research and planning at MEMA, highlighted the growing trend of consumers beginning their purchasing journey online as a critical factor in shaping e-commerce strategies. He underscored the partnership’s role in keeping Auto Care and MEMA members informed amid evolving consumer preferences and market conditions.