Gift Cards, Scooters Great Holiday Gifts for Gearheads

Accessories That Increase Safety, Improve Vehicle Looks Also Popular

ROANOKE, Va., Dec. 8 -- Stuck on what to buy the driver or gearhead on your holiday list? You're not alone, which is why gift cards and motorized scooters are some of the holiday's hottest sellers.

"Shoppers love gift cards," according to Phil Akin, marketing director for Advance Auto Parts. "Women especially love them because it takes the worry out of buying just the right auto part or accessory for the gearhead men in their lives. Gift cards provide hassle-free shopping freedom."

Retailers also like the cards because they help drive customers to a store, often for more than just one visit.

In addition to gift cards, holiday shoppers at the nation's second largest auto parts retailer are also opening up their wallets for motorized scooters. "Gas and electric powered scooters are hot gifts, not just for gearheads, but for everyone," Akin added.

And because a good-looking ride is as important as one that runs well, consumers are snapping up smaller automotive accessories that make a vehicle look better. Items in the "look good" category include vehicle washes, waxes, sponges, wheel cleaners, carpet and upholstery cleaners and tire dressings. When coupled with items designed to improve safety, like tire inflator and sealer, hand-held spotlights, portable jumpstart power packs, jumper cables and roadside flares, these auto accessories make convenient car-care packages.

"Almost everyone has a driver and/or vehicle owner on their shopping list," Akin said, "which is why vehicle-related gifts, whether it's a gift card or a fuel pump, are always popular holiday gifts."

Advance Auto Parts, Inc. is based in Roanoke, Va., and is the second largest auto parts chain in the nation. With 2,500 stores in 38 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, the Company serves both the do-it-yourself and professional installer markets. Additional information about the Company, employment opportunities, services, as well as on-line purchase of parts and accessories can be found on the Company's web site at www.advanceautoparts.com.