May 24, 2013
Genuine Parts Company (NYSE:GPC) distributes automotive parts and industrial replacement parts (engine parts for heavy machinery) to auto repair businesses and manufacturers. The company also sells office products to large retailers. GPC operates in a mature market with many players, and the products it distributes are commodities with many substitutes available in the marketplace, resulting in ongoing pricing pressure from competitors.
DEI auto sales have also been negatively affected by the trend of longer lasting manufacturers warranties. Over the last several years longer warranties have become the industry standard on new cars; when cars are under warranty, drivers are more likely to go to the car dealership for free repairs, than to visit DEI's clients.
(Read more at Wikinvest
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