Joint E-commerce Trends and Outlook Forecast

2024 Joint E-commerce Trends & Forecast Outlook

The Auto Care Association, in partnership with MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers, commissioned the 2024 Joint E-commerce Trends and Outlook Forecast to provide our members with insights into consumer purchase of automotive parts and accessories through the online channel. The report offers in-depth analysis and forecasts to support the industry adaptation to consumer behavior for research and purchase of automotive parts and accessories. Research and analysis for the 2024 Joint E-commerce Trends and Outlook Forecast were led by Jefferies, a team of leading industry collaborators.

Free for members!

All employees of Auto Care Association member companies are provided with a digital copy of the 2024 Joint E-commerce Trends and Outlook Forecast at no cost as a benefit of their membership.

In this study, readers will find:

• E-commerce sales have continued to grow post-pandemic as inflation pressures push consumers toward online channels while seeking lower costs. When third-party marketplaces are excluded, e-commerce sales are projected at $21.7 billion in 2024. When complete sales for Amazon, eBay Motors and Walmart are included, total channel sales are projected at $42.4 billion for 2024, with 6.7% annualized growth projected from 2020 to 2027.
• Most automotive focused e-commerce platforms have tools for consumers to ensure that the parts they order are compatible with a specific year, make, model, and trim – many even guarantee part fitment, reducing the risk for consumers purchasing online.
• While some categories (e.g., ‘Ignition & Engine’ and ‘Routine Maintenance’) have seen sizable growth in 2024, many categories peaked during Covid and have fallen back near pre-pandemic levels of internet channel share.
• What product categories follow strong seasonal sales trends via e-commerce, which ones account for sales through Amazon, how much sales on Amazon surge in conjunction with promotional periods, and average cart size amounts for selected parts categories.
• Insights regarding consumer demographics - age, household income, vehicle mileage, vehicle age - as well as initial research sources when purchasing in-store vs. online.