b'Dear Partner,The advancements and bene\x1fts of todays IT systems are nothing short ofimpressiveoftenbreathtaking.AtSSF,wehadtheprivilegeof experiencing this \x1frsthand when we transitioned our infrastructure at the very beginning of 2025.Wheretechnologyoncerequiredteamstomasteritscomplexity, modernsystemsnowlearnontheirownquickly,intelligently,and with remarkable precision. As many legacy procedures have become obsolete, and as manual adjustments or corrections increasingly hinder e\x1ecient execution, we are now able to focus even more deliberately on what humans do best.In our business, much revolves around the expansion and continuous improvementofourprograms. Thisdemandsexperience,creativity, sound risk assessment, and extraordinary diligence. Equally critical is selecting the right sources of information and inspiration. In this area, our trusted customers play a pivotal role.Every day, tens of thousands of vehicles pass through our customers bays. In the process of servicing these vehicles, an immense wealth of information is generatedcovering parts needs, quality, functionality, shortcomings,consistency,durability,userfriendliness,workability, and much more.Theabilitytoharvestandaccessthisdatae\x1dectivelywillbethe de\x1fningskillsetthatbringsthenextgenerationofaftermarket products and solutions to market faster than ever, for the bene\x1ft of all.Asthelinkbetweenpartsmanufacturersandrepairshops,SSFis uniquely positioned to help establish a more structured, focused \x1cow of information, feedback, inquiry, and personal exchange throughout the supply chain.While the aftermarket in 2025 was heavily in\x1cuenced by events and policies outside our industry, let us make 2026 the year we strengthen our industry from withinby fully leveraging the wealth of information we already possess.Wishingyoucontinuedwisdomandsuccessasyoubuildstronger businesses.Yours sincerely,Thomas BeerCEO'