Differentiation Separates the Winners from the Losers

    SAN ANTONIO--June 4, 2001--Wiper blades are an essential piece of the entire wiper system and require replacement for maximum performance.
    Every car on the road carries the potential to have at least one replacement blade customer, driving the North American wiper system aftermarket.
    New analysis from Frost & Sullivan (www.transportation.frost.com), "North American Wiper Systems Market (Original Equipment and Aftermarket)," indicates original equipment revenues were $747.7 million in 2000 and are estimated to increase to $792.2 million by 2007. Aftermarket revenues were $280.7 million in 2000 and are forecast to increase to $363.4 million by 2007.
    "This is a mature market, and it is vital that manufacturers invest in research and development to differentiate their products and seek premium prices," says Frost & Sullivan Industry Analyst Jasmine Sachdeva. "Wiper systems in general, are low-technology products, but strong innovation and research and development could assist manufacturers in seeking better prices."
    The aftermarket for wiper blades is showing the greatest potential for market participants. Blades are regular replacement items, making this the easiest segment in which to gain revenues.
    According to Sachdeva, market participants must make their wiper blades easier to install in order to increase their market share and decrease costs. Universal fit products were found to not only increase revenues, but also lower inventory costs as producers make fewer part numbers to service the same amount of vehicles.
    Frost & Sullivan presents 2001 Market Engineering Awards to companies who have worked diligently to make a positive contribution to the automotive wiper systems industry. These market-specific awards are presented to Cardone Industries, Federal-Mogul Corporation, Trico Products Corporation, TRW Automotive Electronics and Valeo Inc.
    Frost & Sullivan is a global leader in international strategic market consulting and training. This ongoing research is part of the Automotive Aftermarket and Original Equipment Subscription Services, which also include market analyses of the European Automotive Electric Motors Market. Frost & Sullivan also offers custom consulting to a variety of national and international companies. Executive summaries and interviews are available to the press.