Interdynamics-Quest | Driving Innovation in the Auto Aftermarkets Industry
Since 1970, Interdynamics has built a reputation as an innovator in the automotive aftermarkets industry. Not only did the company cultivate the first “Do It Yourself (DIY) A/C Recharging Kit,” but they also introduced patented, in-line gauges; easy-to-use dispensers; and lock on quick-connectors that make recharging fast and easy.
Meanwhile, more than 1500 miles away, EF Products, established in Dallas, TX in 1993, was making a name for itself in the auto aftermarkets industry as well. A wholesaler of high quality automotive air conditioning products, the company became known for introducing the first closed system retrofit kit for automotive air conditioning systems.
In 2008, a merger within Interdynamics and EF Products resulted in the development of IDQ Inc. Today, IDQ is the world’s leading packager of automotive aftermarket air conditioning products, including air conditioning recharge and retrofit kits, specialty chemicals, premium refrigerant blends, straight refrigerants, and a variety of DIY and professional use products. Based out of Garland, TX, the company also supplies products under the names Interdynamics and Quest/EF to blue chip customers like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, Pep Boys Auto, and Walmart.
Though the company’s size and name has changed, its engagement to innovation has remained the same over the past four decades. For instance, IDQ wanted to make retrofitting an A/C system in an older car an easy and affordable automotive project for their customers. So they introduced a retrofit kit that enabled the automotive DIY-ers to convert older cars from R-12 automotive refrigerant to R-134a with minimal cost (rather than replacing the entire A/C system).
In addition, due to the growing demand for hybrid vehicles, IDQ introduced a premium, hybrid-compatible high-performance lubricant in 2009. A year later, they introduced the Super Seal? Automotive Stop Leak. The two-part “Find-a-Leak / Seal-a-Leak” system helps consumers easily detect and repair the source of an automotive leak.
In addition to in 2010, IDQ became the first manufacturer to receive certification from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to sell small containers of automotive refrigerant in the state. Under guidelines signed into law in California in 2009, manufacturers and marketers of “small cans” of refrigerant must be certified by CARB in order to sell product in the state.
As for the future, growth and innovation are always on the horizon for IDQ. But along with any new products or services comes a renewed commitment to their mission: Providing high quality, innovative A/C solutions to “do-it-yourselfers” and retail partners.
John Brown is a retired financial advisor specializing in M&A deals. If you would like to learn more about merger & acquisitions in specialized niches visit Valence Group.
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