Parts Makers Beware, F150 With Earplugs, Too Early For Pumpkin Spice?

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We’re kicking off the one week countdown to the end of August as the one and only Glenn Lundy joins the show to talk about the potential effect of a strike on auto parts manufacturers. We also talk about a very unique problem with some F150s as well as asking the question, ‘When is it too early for pumpkin spice?’

Show Notes with links:

• There is one group we mentioned on this show who may end up being the most affected by a potential UAW strike: U.S. auto parts manufacturers. Already grappling with pandemic-related strains and semiconductor shortages, these manufacturers face potential cash shortages and daunting production challenges in the wake of looming labor disruptions.
  • Many smaller parts manufacturers might face a cash crunch or difficulties in restarting production due to tightened credits by regional banks. The auto parts manufacturing industry, which employs 4.8 million people, is pivotal to the supply chain and any disruption could halt assembly lines.
  • Some suppliers like Twin City Die Castings Co anticipate revenue hits ranging from 10 to 20%. Many companies may be further at risk as production volumes remain below pre-pandemic levels and costs rise. 
  • About 30% out of 400 companies studied by Harbour Results are considered "unbankable" due to high debt levels and unprofitability.
    
    
• Here's a unique issue for F150 owners: numerous reports have detailed an ear-piercing static sound emanating from their truck's audio system.
  • Last fall, while driving his 2022-model-year F-150 pickup, Phil Floraday experienced a jarring noise from his truck's audio system, akin to glass breaking, followed by intense static. Days later, his ears still rang.
  • Ford has since identified the issue as linked to the amplifier in the sound system and released a technical service bulletin for vehicles from the 2021-23 model years.
  • They have issued a service bulletin for a software update that either has to be done at a dealership or downloaded over the air if applicable. 
• Pumpkin Spice is a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and sometimes allspice. However, its meteoric rise in popularity began in the early 2000s with Starbucks introducing the Pumpkin Spice Latte in 2003. This drink tapped into nostalgic sentiments and soon ignited a nationwide craze, transforming pumpkin spice from a seasonal baking blend to a cultural phenomenon. 
  • As Starbucks marks two decades of its iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte, a nod to America's longstanding culinary love affair with the blend, they're unveiling a third pumpkin-themed drink this fall: the iced pumpkin cream chai latte.
  • Reflecting changing tastes, especially among younger Gen Z consumers, cold beverages now dominate Starbucks' sales, with cold options constituting over 75% of last fall's beverage sales.

Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.

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