Aftermarket December/January 2023

NEWS 6 AFTERMARKET DECEMBER/JANUARY 2023 www.aftermarketonline.net More detail on what will replace Block Exemption is needed following a proposed extension to 2029, as well as how this would be implemented, according to UK AFCAR. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) recently recommended that the Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Regulations (MV-BER) should be replaced by a new regime, which should remain in place until 31 May 2029. The CMA said: “The new Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Order (MV-BEO) should be broadly similar to the existing MV-BER to ensure continuity for businesses, whilst providing some amendments to improve and reflect market developments.” Data and access were seen as key, up to a point: “The definition of ‘spare parts’ should clearly include lubricants and encompass all software together with activation /configuration codes for replacement parts and components, which are strictly necessary to fit those parts or to replace or update components or systems of the vehicle, which are necessary for the use or operation of a motor vehicle.” More clarity will be needed though, as Mark Field, IAAF Chief Executive and UK AFCAR Chairman warned: “While these new and revised definitions are welcome, there also needs to be detailed proposals and clarity on how they would be implemented. This new definition will include access to in-vehicle data but does not include independent and direct access to the vehicle remotely – only what must be made available once the vehicle is in the workshop. This, however, legitimises the VM’s ‘extended vehicle’ model and distorts the ability to compete.” Block Exemption replacement? More detail needed says UK AFCAR TRICO launches Big Christmas Giveaway TRICO running a Christmas scratchcard competition. £10,000 worth of prizes is up for grabs, including a £2,000 holiday voucher, as well as over 500 other prizes including hotel stays luxury spa days, Amazon gift vouchers wine and craft beer gifts, Christmas hampers, and much more. Every TRICO wiper purchased from one of the company’s main distributors comes with a scratchcard. Distributors taking part include A1 Motor Stores and UKS in the UK, and Carcessories, Qualvecom and Wiper Services in Ireland. First Brands Group Brand and Marketing Manager (Europe) Sam Robinson said: “There are some incredible prizes to be won and it’s great to give our customers some early presents in the lead up to Christmas.” Trico’s scratchcard competition runs until 16 December. Winners will have until 31 January 2023 to claim their prizes. Christmas shopping made easy with Machine Mart With just three weeks to go until Christmas as the December/January issue of Aftermarket started to hit doormats, Machine Mart is warning that buying a present for the tools and machinery fanatic in your life can be tricky. A spokesman said: “If you’re stuck for gift ideas, why not let them choose for themselves with a Machine Mart gift card or e-voucher? Machine Mart gift cards and e- vouchers can hold any value from £20 to £500 and can be used in any of Machine Mart’s 65 superstores nationwide or online. Moreover, an E-Voucher can be sent in a personalised email style, courtesy of Machine Mart, whatever the occasion may be.” Follow us on Facebook @aftermarketmagazine