Our History
With over 100 years in business, Standard Motor Products (NYSE:SMP) continues to be an automotive industry leader by adapting to changing technologies.
1913
A New Era
The first moving assembly line for automobiles was developed by Ford Motor Company, transforming cars from unaffordable luxuries into transportation for the masses.
1919
SMP is Born
Elias Fife (pictured) and Ralph Van Allen establish Standard Motor Products (SMP) in New York City, specializing in ignition and electrical products.
1920
Early Growth and Manufacturing
A west coast branch was opened in Seattle with co-founder Ralph Van Allen as general manager.
1921
Over the River
SMP moves across the East River to Long Island City, NY.
1921
Second to None
Elias Fife, (third from right) leading the company’s first sales force, vows to have a “sales force second to none.”
1922
Hydraulic Brake Boom
The first American car with four-wheel hydraulic brakes, the Duesenberg Model A, is developed, replacing ones that relied on the pressure of the driver’s foot alone.
1923
Planting Roots in Queens
Irving Beck, a manufacturer of battery cables, leases space for his operation in SMP’s building on 10th Street, the company's first Queens location. The move made battery cable products the first items to be manufactured at Standard Motor Products.
1926
Power Steering is Invented
Engineer Francis W. Davis began exploring how steering could be made easier, and in 1926 invented, demonstrated and patented the first practical power steering system. The Chrysler Imperial sedan was the first vehicle to adopt power steering.
1926
Wire and Cable Expansion
The SMP product line expands to include wire and cable.
1926
Automotive Ignition Parts
SMP begins manufacturing automotive ignition parts. Shipped from Standard in bulk, these ignition parts were stored by installers in glass jars (pictured). As inventories grew and part numbers multiplied, individual cardboard folding cartons replaced the glass jar storage system.
1926
Expansion Across the Pond
Standard Motor Products markets its products overseas, headed by, Dorothy Lewes, SMP's first Export Manager.
1932
The Right to Repair
Delco-Remy, a subsidiary of General Motors, initiates a lawsuit against P&D, a prominent aftermarket manufacturer of ignition point sets, claiming infringement of Delco’s design patents. Although SMP was not named as a defendant, Elias Fife knew that a victory for Delco-Remy would mean the end of the aftermarket industry. Fife assumed leadership of the defense of this case, and personally directed the legal efforts on behalf of the entire industry. Going all the way to The Supreme Court, the aftermarket industry won its case and established “The Right to Repair." A motorist has the right to bring their vehicle to any repair shop they choose and, in turn, the repair shop may purchase parts from any source they choose.
1932
EIS Manufacturing Founded
EIS Manufacturing was founded in a quiet Bronx residential neighborhood next door to Schwarz Auto Parts. Salesmen drove EIS "Missionary Cars" delivering product information directly to the installer.
1934
Wire and Cable Growth
Irving Beck sells his wire and cable manufacturing business to SMP, and joins the company as a purchasing agent.
1934
The Blue Streak Concept
Elias Fife markets Blue Streak®, a premium-quality line of automotive products designed to combat the growing perception about aftermarket replacement parts. The Blue Streak® name became synonymous with premium quality in the automotive aftermarket with a product that was actually superior to the OE part.
1935
Safety First
Flashing turn signals are introduced.
1935
A Legacy Begins
Bernard Fife (right), son of founder, Elias Fife, joins SMP.
1936
Home Sweet Home
SMP moves from its 10th Street location to its current location at 37-18 Northern Blvd. in Long Island City, New York.
1939
A Cool Addition
The first air conditioning system is added to automobiles.
1940
Fully Automatic
Oldsmobile introduces the first mass-produced, fully automatic transmission.
1947
The Legacy Continues
Nathanial Sills, Elias Fife’s son-in-law, joins the company.
1947
A Positive Expansion
SMP acquires Hygrade® Products, Co. and expands its product line to include carburetor repair parts, fuel pumps, shock absorber parts and speedometer cables.
1948
Canada Bound
Standard Motor Products begins marketing products in Canada.
1950
SMP® Defines the Carburetor Tune-up Kit
Hygrade® introduces the Jiffy Kit, the standard of the carburetor parts industry. The Jiffy Kit, becomes the most important product in the Hygrade® line.
1950
A 25+ Tradition
In July 1950, the company begins The “25 Year Club” tradition honoring the service and dedication of employees who have been with the company for 25 years. To date, the "25 Year Club" has over 1,000 members. The tradition still continues nearly 70 years later.
1950
Finally Cruising
The first cruise control mechanism is developed and is now standard on today’s vehicles.
1951
Steering with Power
Chrysler Corporation introduced the first commercially available power steering system for passenger cars on the 1951 Chrysler Imperial.
1955
Canadian Momentum
Blue Streak®/ Hygrade® Motor Products, Ltd. is established in Canada.
1960
Welcome to the Public
SMP becomes a publicly owned company with stock being first traded over the counter.
1960
Blue Streak® Brand Makes Strides
Blue Streak® brand introduces Lubripoints, an advanced assembled contact breaker point set featuring patented Lubriwick technology.
1963
Green Movement
Automakers introduce the PCV system to begin to reduce harmful emissions.
1966
Injection development
The first electronic fuel injection system is developed.
1967
Southeast Expansion
Standard Motor Products opens Stanric, its first offshore factory in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico.
1967
The Next Generation
Larry Sills, grandson of Elias Fife and a member of the family's third generation, begins his SMP apprenticeship.
1972
SMP Acquisitions
Seeking to diversify and supply a fuller range of products, SMP acquires Champ Items. Originally Champion Window Anti-Rattler Company, Champ was started in 1929 by a former mechanic and car salesman who introduced the line with a window shim for the Model A Ford.
1972
Engineering Excellence
Taking the first steps necessary towards becoming a basic manufacturer of electronic ignition parts, a separate Electronics Engineering group is created by SMP.
1973
Sales in Motion
Larry Sills addresses the SMP sales force at the 1973 National Sales Meeting. SMP is well on its way to meeting Elias Fife's original vision that Standard would have "a sales force second to none."
1977
Listed on NYSE
Standard Motor Products is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol SMP.
1978
Four Seasons® Purchase
Four Seasons® Comfort Controls of Fort Worth, TX, a rebuilder of automotive compressors and regional air conditioning manufacturer, is purchased by SMP.
1979
Carco Purchase
SMP purchases Carco Inc. of Jacksonville, Florida, a manufacturer of automotive climate controls.
1979
Technician Clinics Are Introduced
SMP introduces the first technician clinics focusing on electronics.
1980
Wire and Cable
SMP begins wire and cable production in the Edwardsville, KS facility. A wire and cable line is introduced in Canada shortly thereafter.
1985
The Beginning of ABS
Lincoln introduces the first American car with an antilock braking system (ABS). Today SMP offers over 2,400 ABS Sensors.
1985
Just-in-Time
Taking the lead from Japanese manufacturing processes, “just-in-time” delivery and statistical process control becomes popular.
1985
Grapevine Sees Growth
SMP temperature controls division is formed as Four Seasons® and Carco consolidates and move to Grapevine, TX.
1986
Electronics Operation Gets A Boost
SMP purchases electronics operation from Fairchild’s Hybrid Products Division.
1989
Ignition and Fuel Acquisitions
SMP acquires Guaranteed Parts and Sorensen Industries, two manufacturers of ignition and fuel system parts
1989
Temp Controls Go North
SMP introduces a temperature control line in Canada.
1989
Super Distribution Center Opens
SMP consolidates three smaller warehouses into one 400,000 sq. ft. distribution center in Disputanta, Virginia.
1989
Counterperson Training Begins
SMP introduces counterperson training programs to support our customers and raise brand awareness.
1990
Global Expansion
SMP enters a joint venture with Lavi Electronics, a Toronto remanufacturer of engine control computers. Standard acquired a majority interest, and the company was renamed Blue Streak Electronics, Inc.
1991
The Tradition Continues
Eric Sills, great-grandson of Elias Fife and a member of the family's fourth generation, begins his tenure at SMP.
1992
Alternative Fuel Encouraged
The passage of the Federal Energy Policy Act of 1992 encourages alternative fuel vehicles.
1992
SMP Receives Recognition
SMP appears on the Fortune 500 list of America’s largest industrial corporations as a leader in the Motor Vehicles and Parts category.
1992
Blue Streak® Europe
Blue Streak® Europe is established giving SMP an expanded global presence.
1993
SMP Acquires Federal Parts
SMP acquires Federal Parts, a leading manufacturer of economy wire sets.
1993
Oxygen Sensor Manufacturing
SMP acquires oxygen sensor manufacturing business from Allied Signal expanding its manufacturing base in the growing sensor category.
1994
75 Years Strong
Standard Motor Products celebrates 75 years in business.
1995
Unimotor® Startup in Canada
SMP starts up Unimotor® in Ontario, Canada to manufacture blower and radiator fan motors.
1995
SMP Corporate Training Center
Responding to the need for technician training to keep pace with advancing technology, SMP opens its corporate training center in Irving, Texas.
1996
Temperature Control Expansion
SMP acquires Hayden®, a manufacturer of fan clutches and transmission oil coolers, to continue its expansion of the Temperature Control Division.
1996
SMP Electronics Heads to Florida
SMP's Electronics Business Unit moves to new facilities in Orlando, FL to continue its advanced manufacturing of automotive electronic components.
1997
Developing Technology
SMP engineers develop advanced, double-wire bonding and heat-sink technology for electronic modules creating a stronger, better performing and longer lasting automotive electronic control module.
1997
Cadillac Steps Up Safety
Cadillac offers automatic stability control, increasing safety in emergency handling situations.
1997
The Prius Paves the Way
The Toyota Prius was only available in Japan when it first went on sale in 1997, and became the first mass-produced hybrid vehicle. It was subsequently introduced worldwide in 2000.
1998
Integrated Airbags
The modern-day airbag became standard on vehicles, significantly increasing driver and passenger safety.
1998
Four Seasons® Expansion
Maxair, Everco and Murray become part of the Four Seasons® division of SMP expanding SMP's automotive temperature control offering.
1999
Professional Diagnostics
SMP corporate training introduces professional diagnostic seminars continuing the company's commitment to educate automotive technicians.
2002
Wire and Cable Division Expands
Carol Cable Ltd, a UK wire manufacturer, becomes part of SMP Holdings Ltd.
2002
Mastering Fuel Injection
SMP enters fuel injection manufacturing by purchasing selected assets of Sagem, Inc., a basic manufacturer of fuel injectors and related parts, from Johnson Controls, Inc.
2003
SMP and NAPA Echlin
Dana Corporation agreed to sell a significant portion of the Engine Management operations of its Automotive Aftermarket Group to Standard Motor Products, and the BWD®, Niehoff and Echlin brands join the SMP family. SMP becomes a supplier to NAPA® with the Echlin® brand.
2004
Dana - Canada
SMP acquires Canadian Engine Management Business from Dana Corporation and begins integrating functions into SMP's Mississauga, Ontario location.
2004
Green Seasons
Four Seasons® division receives Environmental Management System ISO 14001:2004 certification for green manufacturing setting the standard for all of SMP's facilities.
2005
Expanding Global Manufacturing
Standard Motor Products begins remanufacturing compressors at its plant in Reynosa, Mexico. Today, SMP has three manufacturing facilities in Reynosa; Temperature Control, Engine Management and Wire and Cable.
2006
Poland Expansion
SMP opens manufacturing facility in Bialystok, Poland to serve expanding European markets.
2008
SMP Develops CNG Injector
SMP develops a CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) compatible fuel injector establishing the company as a leader and innovator in fuel system technologies.
2008
TPMS Takes Center Stage
All vehicles made or sold in the U.S. are now required to have Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS). SMP has added TPMS sensors to its growing engine control line.
2009
SMPAdds Belden® Wire
SMP acquires Federal Mogul Wire product line adding the well respected Belden® brand to the wire lineup. SMP begins supplying Belden® Edge® wire sets to NAPA®.
2009
Unimotor® Goes Hybrid
Unimotor® develops hybrid battery cooling blower for low-emission hybrid trucks establishing SMP as a leader in this advanced technology.
2009
Intermotor® Comes to America
SMP launches Intermotor® brand in the United States establishing SMP as a leader in the engine management import market.
2009
SMP On Social
SMP steps into the age of social media with its first Facebook brand page. SMP Facebook pages now include Standard®, Four Seasons®, BWD®, Intermotor®, TechSmart®, ACI®, Hayden Automotive® and Standard Motorcycle®.
2009
HVAC Redesign for HUMVEE
SMP is a major contributor to a redesigned HVAC system for the military HUMVEE, helping to engineer a solution to reduce the oppressive in-vehicle temperature. Three SMP Temperature Control division plants, in the US and Canada, engineered, manufactured and supplied the A/C compressor, evaporator, heater core, condenser coils, front and rear HVAC motor housing assemblies and the condenser fan assemblies. As the result of SMP engineering and ingenuity, the in-vehicle temperature was lowered from 95ºF to 83ºF for a 13% reduction.
2009
Ringing the Bell
Flanked by SMP Board of Directors, CEO, Lawrence Sills, rings the NYSE Closing Bell to commemorate SMP's 90th anniversary.
2010
Continuing Growth
SMP's Hong Kong facility transitions from manufacturing to procurement while maintaining an engineering support staff.
2010
Hayden® Heads to Texas
Hayden®, a manufacturer of fan clutches and transmission oil coolers, moves into the Grapevine, Texas facility.
2010
SMP Gets Technical with Video
SMP uploads its first YouTube video, welcoming a new age of product communication, motorist interaction, and technical training. Today SMP video channels have more than 27 million views.
2011
Standard® Motorcycle Launch
SMP launches the Standard® Motorcycle Products Brand.
2011
SMP Gets Techsmart®
SMP develops and launches the Techsmart® brand. TechSmart® is designed to provide a line of enhanced engine control products to the professional service technician with a focus on new technology, new categories and problem-solving improvements to the original part.
2011
Standard® Joins Twitter
On July 12, 2011 Standard® Brand joins the social media site Twitter and posts its first tweet. Today BWD®, TechSmart®, and Intermotor® brands join Standard® in the Twitter universe.
2011
SMP Acquires BLD®
SMP acquires BLD® products engine controls business expanding SMP's basic footprint in emission controls with PCV valve manufacturing.
2011
Forecast® Joins SMP®
Forecast® Trading Company is acquired by SMP, and the OEM brand becomes part of the SMP family.
2012
SMP Featured in The Atlantic
"Making it in America" in the Jan/Feb 2012 issue of The Atlantic Magazine prominently features SMP, highlighting the story of American manufacturing, its challenges and the people who make it possible. CEO, Larry Sills was interviewed along with other SMP employees for this narrative which was also broadcast nationally on NPR radio.
2012
Right to Repair Legislation
The Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act, referred to as Right to Repair, takes a giant leap forward as the Massachusetts legislature passed H. 4362, a Right to Repair bill on July 31, 2012 marking the first time that this federal legislation will become law.
2012
CompressorWorks® Is acquired
CompressorWorks® is acquired by SMP joining Four Seasons as a key brand in the automotive compressor category in SMP Temperature Control Division.
2013
SMP Hits 60,000+ Fans
SMP counts more than 60,000 in its growing family of Facebook "fans" across its popular brands.
2013
SMP Gets Basic in TPMS
SMP acquires an equity position in Orange Electronics giving SMP a manufacturing base in TPMS sensor manufacturing. Orange has been an innovator in the field of wireless tire pressure monitoring systems, is certified worldwide, and has received many awards and patents for TPMS innovation including one for advanced TPMS Clone-able technology.
2014
SMP Acquires Pensacola Diesel
SMP acquires the assets of Pensacola Fuel Injection's diesel remanufacturing. Providing an expanded base for diesel fuel system manufacturing, the acquisition includes a wide range of diesel fuel injectors, diesel pumps and turbo chargers.
2014
SMP continues to grow
SMP forms a joint venture with Gwo Yng Enterprise Co., Ltd., a basic manufacturer of air conditioning accumulators, filter driers, hose assemblies and switches for the automotive aftermarket, original equipment and original equipment service markets. SMP also acquires the assets of Annex Manufacturing, a distributer of a variety of temperature control products for the automotive aftermarket.
2014
SMP Goes Mobile
SMP launches its SMP Parts App for Apple and Android devices in September. Key features include a UPC scanner, a search function and access to rich content such as install instructions and videos.
2014
SMP’s Websites Get an Overhaul
In November, Standard Motor Products launched its revamped Standard Brand website featuring responsive architecture, an all-new interface and a redesigned eCatalog. As a result, it has never been easier to filter through Standard Brand’s more than 40,000 parts. The website’s user-friendly format has been applied to other SMP brand websites over time.
2015
A Move for the Future
On the heels of its 95th anniversary, SMP looks to the future by appointing Eric Sills as President of the company. As the great-grandson of Elias Fife and son of CEO Lawrence Sills, Eric Sills becomes the fourth generation of the Fife/Sills family to be appointed to the Office of the Chief Executive.
2015
SMP CEO Larry Sills Receives Prestigious Award
During the Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA) Opening General Session in November, SMP Chairman and CEO Larry Sills was presented with the AWDA's most prestigious honor, the Jack Creamer Leader of the Year Award.
2016
SMP Appoints New CEO
In March, President Eric Sills becomes the fourth CEO in SMP’s history. He’s also appointed to the Board of Directors. Former CEO Larry Sills is named Executive Chairman of the Board.
2017
SMP Acquires General Cable
SMP acquires the North American automotive ignition wire business from General Cable to expand an already extensive ignition wire offering.
2017
Interactive Buyer's Guide Launches
In April, SMP launches its Standard Interactive Buyer’s Guide. Consisting of seven interactive, illustrated parts guides, the tool allows customers to search across all Standard® parts guides at the same time. Plus, search results are highlighted for easy identification, and the part numbers in each index and parts guide link to SMP’s award-winning eCatalog.
2017
Larry Sills celebrates 50 years at SMP
Larry Sills, Executive Chairman of the Board, celebrates 50 years at SMP. During his tenure at SMP, the grandson of SMP founder, Elias Fife, has held several important positions including General Sales Manager, Vice President of Operations, company President and CEO.
2017
It's a Safety First for TPMS Sensors
In August, Standard Motor Products became the first manufacturer to have TPMS sensors registered with NSF® International, a leading independent, accredited organization that tests and verifies the functionality of products and systems. NSF® TPMS registration provides third-party assurance to consumers, shops and insurance companies that our aftermarket TPMS sensors meet all applicable federal requirements and will fit and function properly in a manner equivalent to the OE sensor on the vehicle.
2017
SMP receives MERA certification for its Diesel Injectors
SMP is accepted to the Manufactured Again (MERA) Certification program. Based on ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 quality standards, the program helps customers identify remanufactured products with like-new quality and warranty coverage while also promoting environmentally friendly standards. To receive certification, SMP was required to provide third-party evidence that its facilities conformed to MERA's quality standards.
2017
SMP Forms Joint Venture with Foshan Guangdong Automotive Air Conditioning Co., Ltd.
SMP forms joint venture with Foshan Guangdong Automotive Air Conditioning Co., Ltd. (FGD), a China-based manufacturer of air conditioning compressors for the automotive aftermarket and the Chinese Original Equipment market. The new company is named Foshan FGD SMP Automotive Compressor Co., LTD.
2018
SMP Expands ADAS Category
SMP expands its line of Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) components for its Standard® and Intermotor® lines. The expansion of ADAS components includes Blind Spot Detection Sensors, Cruise Control Distance Sensors and Lane Departure System Cameras and provides coverage for all major domestic and Japanese manufacturers including Ford, GM, Chrysler, Toyota, Honda and Nissan.
2018
Blue Streak is Back: Featuring New Heavier-Duty Ignition Coils
Building on our rich history of quality and durability, we’re proud to say that Blue Streak® is stronger than ever. Our Blue Streak® program includes our original Blue Streak® products such as points, condensers, caps and rotors, as well as our new heavier-duty, longer-lasting ignition coils that are engineered and manufactured at our TS16949-certified facility in Bialystok, Poland.
2018
Standard Wins New Packaging Showcase Award at AAPEX
We're excited to announce that our new Standard® packaging won the New Packaging Showcase Award for Marketing at this year's AAPEX show. As a full-service supplier, we're committed to excellence across all of our departments, whether it's product, engineering, training, sales, or marketing. We'd like to give a special thanks to our marketing team and our agency, TFI Envision, for all the hard work that went into this design.
2018
SMP Receives Prestigious Award for Training
At this year's AWDA Opening Session, Standard Motor Products was presented with the Art Fisher Memorial Scholarship Award. The award is given to a company or individual in recognition of their leadership and commitment to education and training, either within their own organization or throughout the auto care industry. On behalf of our world-class training team, we're honored to accept this award.
2019
SMP Celebrates 100th Anniversary
Standard Motor Products announces that it is celebrating its 100-year anniversary. Over the years, SMP has grown by leaps and bounds from the company that Elias Fife founded in 1919. SMP now employs approximately 4,400 people, generates over a billion dollars in net sales, operates in more than 25 facilities around the world, and is a leading independent manufacturer and distributor of replacement parts in the automotive aftermarket.
Eric Sills, CEO and President, and a fourth-generation descendant of the founder, stated, “In this highly competitive industry, we owe our sustained success to both the dedication of our talented employees as well as to our loyal customers. We are committed to entering our next centennial with the same determination and ingenuity that has made SMP the automotive market leader that it is today.”
2019
SMP Rings NYSE Opening Bell
To commemorate its 100th anniversary in business, Standard Motor Products rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange.
2020
SMP Acquires MK Company Ltd.
SMP acquires assets of MK Company Ltd., a plastic injector molder in London, Ontario. MK Company will now be known as the Unimotor Plastics Department.
2020
The Launch of SMP Cares
SMP announces the launch of its SMP Cares website, a new site dedicated to highlighting the company’s efforts supporting local communities through service, volunteerism and donations.
2020
SMP Manufactures Heat Exchangers for Medical Oxygen Devices
With the high demand for oxygen and ventilating equipment due to the COVID-19 pandemic, SMP’s Temperature Control Division has delivered heat exchangers suitable for oxygen concentrators and oxygen generators, key components used in the production of medical ventilators.
2021
Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability Report
The inaugural report summarizes SMP's commitment to be environmentally and socially responsible, and highlights the Company’s initiatives, goals and achievements related to ethics, its business, its employees and communities, and the planet.
2021
SMP Purchases Stoneridge’s Particulate Matter Sensor Business
SMP acquires the particulate matter sensor product line from Stoneridge Inc. The advanced emissions control technology is used in commercial vehicles expanding use in the original equipment heavy-duty market.
2021
Eric Sills Testifies Before US House Committee of Energy & Commerce
Eric Sills, President and CEO of Standard Motor Products and incoming Board Chairman of AASA, speaks before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection & Commerce. He was one of only four to testify on supply chain resilience and American competitiveness.
The hearing took place virtually and can be viewed on the Committee webpage HERE. Read Sills’ full testimony HERE.
2021
SMP Acquires Trombetta
SMP acquires Trombetta, a worldwide leader in providing power switching and power management products to OE customers in various markets. With the acquisition of Trombetta, SMP adds manufacturing facilities in Tijuana, Mexica, Milwaukee, WI, Sheboygan Falls, WI as well as a majority ownership in a joint venture in Wuxi, China.
2021
SMP Acquires Stabil Group
SMP acquires Stabil, a manufacturer and distributor of a variety of components, including electronic sensors, control units and clamping devices to the European OE market, servicing both commercial and light vehicle applications. Stabil has facilities in Pécel, Hungary and Kirchheim unter Teck, Germany.
2021
Supporting Local Healthcare Heroes
SMP shows its support and gratitude to Long Island City healthcare workers as they continue to care for patients combating COVID-19. SMP employees donated over $1,000 in healthy snacks that were distributed to Mount Sinai’s key personnel in Astoria.
2021
Employees Give Back Through SMP Cares™ & SMP’s Annual Scholarship Awards
SMP give back to our communities through the extraordinary generosity in both time and money donations in 2021. Additionally, SMP continued to support the training and education of our next generation of technicians and automotive students through its Annual Scholarship Contest.
2022
SMP Joins the Center for Automotive Diversity, Inclusion and Advancement
SMP announces that it has joined the Center for Automotive Diversity, Inclusion and Advancement (CADIA) to continue deploying initiatives focused on diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I). Founded in 2017, CADIA is a non-profit organization with the mission of doubling the number of diverse leaders in the automotive industry by 2030. This news follows SMP’s launch of a DE&I taskforce to focus on internal initiatives to help drive change.
2022
Record Year for Customer Awards
SMP receives numerous awards including the Spirit of NAPA Award; O'Reilly Auto Parts Supplier of the Year and Technical Training Awards; AutoZone Extra Miler; Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance Outstanding Customer Service and People's Choice Awards; Automotive Parts Services Group Outstanding Vendor of the Year; Parts Authority Operational Performance; and NAPA Canada Supplier of the Year.
"We are exceptionally proud of the awards and recognition we received in 2022" said Eric Sills, President and Chief Executive Officer at SMP. "The awards are a true testament to our people, their efforts and our core values."
2022
Electric Vehicle Sales Hit Record High
Q2 2022 delivered record sales of electric vehicles with 196,788 sold, or 66.4% more than in Q2 2021. With these sales, electric vehicles account for 5.6% of new vehicle sales. While electric vehicles still account for less than 1% of vehicles on the road, SMP is committed to expanding our offering for electric and hybrid vehicles.
2022
SMP Acquires Kade Trading GmbH
SMP acquires 100% of the capital stock of Kade Trading GmbH, headquartered in Glinde, Germany. This acquisition provides SMP with an entry point into the European market for its temperature control products with a strong focus on the continuing electrification of thermal systems.
2023
SMP Introduces Engineered Solutions
SMP introduces a new operating segment, “Engineered Solutions,” focusing on non-Aftermarket end markets, including both on-highway (commercial and light vehicles) and off-highway (construction, agriculture, power sports, and other) applications. Offerings include product categories from both of SMP’s legacy operating segments and provide a broad array of conventional and future-oriented technologies, including those that are specific to vehicle electrification and those that are powertrain-neutral.
2023
SMP Announces Segment Reporting Changes
With the introduction of Engineered Solutions, SMP announces its intent to rename its Engine Management segment to “Vehicle Control” to more accurately reflect the evolution of the products and categories SMP offers, and the future areas of product growth including powertrain-neutral and electrification-specific offerings. The three subcategories of the segment include “Ignition, Emissions and Fuel,” “Wire Sets and Other,” and “Electrical and Safety.”
2023
SMP Named 2023 Company Ally of the Year
During the AAPEX Show, SMP is the proud recipient of several awards, including being named the 2023 Company Ally of the Year by Women in Auto Care. This award highlights SMP’s continuous commitment to empowering women within the organization. SMP is a proud sponsor of this prestigious community and appreciates the organization’s impact on women throughout the industry.
2023
SMP Named One of America’s Most Responsible Companies and a USA Today’s American Climate Leader
SMP is recognized as one of America’s Most Responsible Companies 2024 by Newsweek and Statista. This list recognizes companies for continued effort and results within all aspects of Sustainability - Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG). SMP is also recognized in the USA Today’s Inaugural List of America’s Climate Leaders, which represents companies that have lowered greenhouse gas emissions and reduced their carbon footprint over the past several years.
2024
SMP Named a U.S. News and World Report Best Company to Work For
SMP is recognized as one of U.S. News and World Report’s Best Companies to Work For and is named one of the Best in the Northeast. SMP is one of only eight companies recognized in the Auto and Parts distinction.
2024
SMP Certified as a Most Loved Workplace®
SMP is certified as a Most Loved Workplace® by the Best Practice Institute recognizing companies where employees are the happiest and most satisfied based on its scores on the Love of Workplace Index™.
