The independent heavy-duty aftermarket has united to support the Product Information Exchange Standard (PIES) for product data, urging all suppliers to embrace these standards.

“Adoption of PIES data standards brings efficiencies to suppliers and distributors while ultimately creating a better experience for the customer,” said Mike Harris, SVP of sales and branch operations at FleetPride. “As digital platforms like ecommerce expand, the parts with the most complete data set will be the product customers more likely choose.”

PIES, an industry standard format for the communication of product data, simplifies and enhances communication throughout the entire supply chain, according to the group, which includes FleetPride, HDA Truck Pride, and VIPAR Heavy Duty.

“Data standards have proven to be the critical foundation for electronic transactions as we move forward. PIES will assist the entire supply chain in cost reduction, increased productivity and overall competitiveness,” said Tina Hubbard, President and CEO of HDA Truck Pride.

Announced in January 2020 at Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week (HDAW), the heavy-duty PIES standard streamlines the development and dissemination of product data, simplifying product information creation.

“The need for rich product content has never been greater with new digital environments, expanding sales channels and changing customer and staff demographics magnifying the need; and a methodology to obtain, manage and distribute content effectively and efficiently,” said Jeff Paul, Vice President of Marketing, VIPAR Heavy Duty.