Philip Atkins Joins AASA as Director, Strategic Research and Planning

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. – The Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) announces that Philip Atkins has joined the association as its new director, strategic research and planning.

Atkins will report to Jay Burkhart, AASA vice president and chief strategy officer, and will be responsible for AASA’s Industry Analysis function. He will lead the development of industry reports, studies and white papers for AASA members. In addition, Atkins will direct third party research suppliers and collaborate with knowledge partners on specify topics of interest to members. He also will oversee the biannual AASA Landmark Study, which has served as a benchmark in the aftermarket for business planning.

“Industry analysis and thought leadership are highly valued by our members and the industry at large,” said Bill Long, AASA president and COO. “Philip’s deep knowledge and experience in the research and planning field, together with Jay’s vast aftermarket experience, strengthens AASAs strategic research capability going forward.”

Atkins brings extensive experience utilizing market research of all types to develop actionable insights for business strategy to AASA. He has had a wide exposure across industries and has done research for many major corporations. He was most recently with Data Decisions Group LLC, which provides research and consulting for clients in fields such as retailing, insurance and the automotive aftermarket. He is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

About AASA

AASA (www.aftermarketsuppliers.org) exclusively serves manufacturers of aftermarket components, tools and equipment, and related products which support 710,000 employees in the United States. AASA is a recognized industry change agent – promoting a collaborative industry environment, providing a forum to address issues and serving as a valued resource for members. AASA is the light vehicle aftermarket division of the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA). “AASA, The Voice for the Automotive Aftermarket Supplier Industry”