Newark Auto has a history of adapting to the times. The heritage brand has deep roots dating all the way back to its founding in 1907. Originally founded as a horse carriage upholstery shop, the company transitioned into the world of automobile interiors as cars became popular with the passage of time and progress. The brand is notable for having developed patterns for custom car interiors without needing the vehicle present.
Evolution and Modernization
The iconic interior company partnered with mail-order companies like J.C. Whitney in the mid-20th century before shifting to e-commerce partnerships in the early 2000s. In 2021, Lucas Philips acquired the company and sought to modernize operations and build a direct-to-consumer brand. Today, Newark Auto continues to serve vintage car enthusiasts with quality interiors through innovative e-commerce strategies as well as through reputable online dealers.
Exclusive Products for Car Enthusiasts
Newark Auto is now the largest manufacturer of cut-and-sewn carpet and interior products for classic cars. In addition to older cars being the brand’s specialty, it also holds the exclusive patterns for many classic car models, making it the only brand that can service such models. The company recently expanded its product line to include Porsche interiors and headliners through acquisitions.
Continuing to Embrace Progress
In keeping with their relentless embracing of progress over the past century-plus, the company also modernized manufacturing and pushed innovation forward by implementing CNC cutting machines and CAD technology. Furthermore, its expansion into e-commerce has included a growing presence on Shopify and Amazon.
Building a Digital Legacy in Classic Car Interiors
Newark Auto’s e-commerce success has benefited both the company and its clients. It has allowed the company to expand its Amazon offering, including new DIY kits. In addition to Amazon, the brand has embraced newer digital venues such as Shopify and is projecting sales growth as a direct result of this expansion.
The Shopify site has significantly boosted the company’s reach, demonstrating what a tremendous boon it has been for the brand to allow clients from far and wide greater access to their incomparably crafted items. Adding to this, the company’s presence on Amazon continues to grow steadily every month. Lucas has plans to expand the company’s role on Amazon by offering exclusive DIY carpet and headliner kits to attract established and new clients to the online venue.
In conjunction with these modern digital advancements, Newark Auto is also keeping a firm grasp on its ties to vintage cars and craftsmanship. It recently secured sponsorship of Porsche Club of America events, which has further contributed to the brand’s visibility in classic car communities.
Looking Forward
Newark Auto’s century-plus legacy is one of innovation, progress, and impact within the classic car upholstery industry. By keeping one foot in the past and the other in a distinctly modern approach, the company is both preserving and innovating its legacy.