There is not much needed to introduce digitization and need for eCommerce globally. Everyone including us seeks ease of buying and quality for making eCommerce purchases. The demand for auto parts went down in 2020 due to the pandemic taking a toll and began increasing from 2021 again due to recovery from world hazard. Globally the automotive aftermarket is expected to progress at 5.4% CAGR from 2021-2031. In the given situation, one should ensure that data management is used not only for technology but also for increasing revenue.

ECommerce PIM Automotive and automotive standards

Owing to development and regular launch of new auto parts and designs, the requirement for centralized data management arises. As we know, product information management’s purpose is to gather, manage, enrich, and distribute data across various channels including market places. PIM, when implemented, acts as the central management system for managing content. It can be used for managing content and synched to ERP system, eCommerce platforms, and other third-party integrations. Product information management is not only inclusive of warranties and models. The days of maintaining spreadsheets are long gone ever since PIM solutions entered the market. To add more, PIM for automotive industry is the current drive to scale eCommerce sales.

We know the North American aftermarket is structured by AutoCare standards. AutoCare standards- specifically ACES and PIES serve the entire supply chain of automotive aftermarket. It should be noted that marketplaces like eBay and Amazon adhere to ACES and PIES standards for the related product categories and seek compliance from its suppliers. The ACES and PIES standards help in creating a template for auto parts and sharing fitment information through PIM. Having an automotive PIM can manage data efficiently, while templates and mapping updates can be done within the tool relevant to provided standards. Automotive PIM diminishes the issues arising due to data format. An eCommerce PIM also takes care of the auto parts inventory when it is integrated with eCommerce web shops and ERP system.

Role of PIM in scaling automotive parts eCommerce

Let us take the case where you do not have an aftermarket auto parts eCommerce PIM. You will find yourself doing repetitive tasks which can lead to data inconsistencies and errors. Since there will not be any systematic way to send data to marketplaces, the result will be a waste of money and time. Product information is the key to auto parts business operations. The essence is that, without a PIM, auto parts business will suffer due to lack of growth. But by implementing PIM for automotive aftermarket sales through offline channels and eCommerce, you can ensure there is a continuous dissemination of product data across marketplaces or channels. It improves the time to market for new and updated products.

Final words

The PIM for automotive aftermarket should not only support small businesses. It should be able to load thousands or even lakhs of part information to be pushed into marketplaces. Due to its importance in managing data, PIM should be updated frequently. Customizable PIM for automotive industry eCommerce is a gateway to meet automotive business goals and scale business in the long-run.