Epicor and Google Team up for New Auto Parts Search Feature

Google has teamed up with Epicor Software Corp in order to develop a consumer oriented search feature for automotive replacement parts. The feature which will be powered by the Epicor Listing Expert parts listing solution can be used by browsers to quickly identify check for the local and online availability and pricing for millions of parts which are sold through aftermarket suppliers. Research conducted by the automotive industry research shows that over 90 percent of automotive enthusiast shoppers begin their search for parts online.

Epicor used the ongoing 2018 AAPEX Show to showcase the Epicor ListingExpert solution. The solution was used to serve as the local parts inventory and pricing engine for a local Google storefront for each business which participated in the show. When this was used in conjunction with Google Ads, a consumer looking for a particular prat like an oil filter for a Ford Explorer, was able to get results pertaining not only to the particular part number, but also with regard to its availability, pricing and Google geo navigation to the local store which was represented in the ListingExpert database. Stores need Google and ListingExpert subscriptions in order to participate in this feature.

Commenting on the feature, Rod Bayless, senior director, industry data analytics, Epicor Software said that the powerful new search feature will make it possible for traditional parts stores to grow by connecting with millions of consumers who search for parts online first and who might not be aware that a convenient local store nearby could have the part that they are looking for.

Bayless added, “The sale of a single filter, headlamp, wiper blade or another part to a new customer could result in a long-term business relationship extending over a much broader range of products.”

Using the Epicor ListingExpert solution, replacement parts providers could easily list any number of available products, as well as their pricing and other information, on leading eStore solutions. The solution can be integrated with Google so that Epicor could use the solution to provide browsers with daily updates on a participating store’s available inventory and pricing through the most widely used search engine in the world.