The voice of the independent garage sector WORLD CLASS REACTION TIMES FROM THE NTK SENSOR RANGE September 2024 www.aftermarketonline.net 6 Spotlight Fake car parts alert 22 Aftermarket Event Why you can’t miss it! 34Garage visit Family’s labour of love
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Editorial 3 www.aftermarketonline.net JUNE 2024 Editor John Shepherd john@aftermarket.co.uk +44 (0) 1732 370 345 Head of Sales Angela Lyus angela@aftermarket.co.uk +44 (0) 7823 736 629 Managing Director Ryan Fuller ryan.fuller@dfamedia.co.uk Operations Manager Emma Godden-Wood emma.godden-wood@dfamedia.co.uk Marketing Manager Hope Jepson hope.jepson@dfamedia.co.uk Production Design Anthony Wiffen Finance Department accounts@dfamedia.co.uk +44 (0) 1732 370 340 Chief Executive Ian Atkinson ian.atkinson@dfamedia.co.uk Contributors Yousif Al Ani | David Banks Kayleigh Bradley | James Lett Martin Pinnell-Brown | Marc Russell Published by DFA Media Group 192 High Street Tonbridge Kent TN9 1BE +44 (0)1732 370340 ISSN 2516-9149 Aftermarket is published 10 times a year and is sent free of charge to applicants meeting the publisher’s criteria. All others may subscribe at £60 per anum, £120 Europe and £150 rest of the world. While every care is taken to provide accurate information, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or ommisions, no matter how caused. All rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior consent of the publisher. The views of contributors do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher. Copyright: DFA Aftermarket Media Ltd 2024. Average net circulation July 2022 to June 2023 17,274 The drive into a busy season for garages starts here… Barely a few weeks have gone by since we were heralding the onset of summer and it’s already slipping by and preparing to give way to autumn. I hope everyone found time to get away from desks and workshops and that you’re ready for what promises to be a busy season ahead. Let me start this issue by highlighting a special Spotlight report on an upcoming campaign to crack down on the scourge of fake car parts and accessories. Aftermarket has the exclusive inside track on what is being planned to help stamp out this illegal trade which, if not dealt with, can ruin businesses, reputations and consumer trust. Find out more on page 6. On a lighter note, we’re now just a few weeks away from the inaugural Aftermarket Event at Farnborough International, so if you’ve not already registered to attend in this unique event dedicated to the independent garage and bodyshop sector, get a move on! You’ll find all the details you need starting on page 18 – followed by our special ‘sneak peak’ preview of what promises to be THE event on the aftermarket calendar. We are also edging ever closer to finding out who will emerge victorious from this year’s Top Technician and Top Garage competitions. The awards evening will be held in Coventry on October 26. For details and to check last-minute availability for a table at this prestige event turn to the back page. In addition to the latest news about our industry, read all about my visit to a garage in the Midlands that has a great story to tell about its family-run roots from the past to the present day — and how it is supporting the next generation of mechanics. Also, check out our selection of some of the latest innovations on the market that could give your business the edge in our packed products focus pages. In an exclusive article for this magazine Marc Russell, CCO of FixMyCar, gives his take on how sustainability can drive business in the aftermarket as well as offering suggestions for garages to benefit. On the long road ahead to autonomous driving becoming common-place, Martin PinnellBrown asks where this leaves the aftermarket? And in our regular look at the skills and training scene, an aftermarket recruitment specialist advises garages to recognise the importance of maximising transferable skills from other professions. Elsewhere in our feature pages read all about a new EU vehicle safety regulation that will impact the UK despite Brexit and find out why the auto market should stay alert. Enjoy the issue and do let me know if you have a story to tell about your business to be featured in a future edition! John Shepherd Editor
News 4 www.aftermarketonline.net SEPTEMBER 2024 Contents 6 Spotlight 20The Aftermarket Event 16 Top Technician / Top Garage 30Garage visit 8 News in review 25 Products focus Seven-page roundup of the latest industry developments 8-15 Garage champions racing to contests’ finishing line 16-17 Special preview of next month’s prestige UK garage sector event 20-24 Showcasing the latest brands and innovations for the auto market 25-27 Meet the family business inspiring a new generation 30-31 Cracking down on counterfeit car parts 6-7
News 5 www.aftermarketonline.net SEPTEMBER 2024 32 Opportunity knocks FixMyCar CCO Marc Russell on driving aftermarket business 32-33 54Skills & training Student courses and hiring in the skills maze 54-55 42 Technical Auto safety wake-up call 42 Self-driving era looms 46 Digital self-service boost 47 New worn tyre rules 48 58TeaBreak Getting next generation of technicians on the road 58 34 Features Ready for the e-revolution? 34 EVs & hybrids 36 Ignition 37 Online tools & management 41 56On the move Subscribe to In focus: latest industry appointments in the garages sector 56-57
Spotlight 6 www.aftermarketonline.net SEPTEMBER 2024 Fake car parts warning as crackdown looms Aftermarket can reveal that UK authorities are set to launch a fresh campaign alerting garages and consumers to the risks of counterfeit automotive parts and products on the market The Intellectual Property Office (IPO) is preparing a new campaign aimed at warning the automotive sector and motorists about the ongoing risk of fake and dangererous car parts on the UK market. Industry sources told Aftermarket of the move during the summer — and the IPO confirmed preparations for a campaign are underway as this issue went to press. Meanwhile, auto giant Mercedes-Benz has disclosed that it too is continuing its efforts to protect the group and its supply chain from criminal gangs trading in counterfeit goods (see our separate report on these pages). A spokesperson for the IPO said: “We are currently planning to intensify our work to alert consumers and industry to this issue and the risks in the latter part of this year — most likely kicking off in the autumn at some point.” However, the spokesperson said details would be given later in the year and thanked Aftermarket for offering to help promote fake parts warnings to garages. The IPO’s campaign will be the latest since it published its most recent report, in 2018. The agency said then that the cutting-edge of crime nowadays is to be found inside vehicles with a “more pervasive piracy at play, transforming masterpieces into fakes”. According to that report, car manufacturers, sparepart makers, vehicle designers, engineers and sales and maintenance teams, had all been affected by the same problem. Cheap, counterfeit vehicle parts appeal to consumers, but they risk lives, compromise performance, damage the environment and put the long-term future of the motor industry at risk, the IPO said. Latest figures on fakes in the auto sector are expected to be released later this year, but as of 2018 the IPO estimated 90% of counterfeit crime was going unreported. Online, it had been suggested that as many as one in six purchases are of fake goods, the agency said. An EU survey of that time suggested that 10% of consumers were being deceived into buying counterfeit products, with 7% of consumers intentionally seeking them out. A related report around that time by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) said imports of counterfeit goods to the UK accounted for as much as £9.3 billion in 2013. This represented 4% of imports, well above the 2.5% average share of fake goods in world imports. According to the OECD, that revenue not only failed to reach its rightful owners, those legitimate IP-owning businesses, it was not taxed and so did not benefit wider society. Worse still, international criminal networks operating illegal and exploitive businesses reap the rewards, which in turn threatened consumer safety. Last spring, the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) confirmed it had also turned its focus towards the “significant issue” of counterfeit automotive spare parts, posing severe risks to consumers and road safety across Europe. EUIPO said it was mounting an awareness campaign highlighting how fake products ranging from critical safety components such as airbags and seat EUIPO urges consumers to be on their guard for vague or inaccurate product descriptions, undervalued shipments, and missing safety guidelines. Other ‘red flags’ include the absence of official licensing, poor packaging, discrepancies in product appearance compared to genuine parts, incorrect or varying serial numbers, and misspellings on packaging or parts. These tips are crucial for consumers looking to ensure they are purchasing genuine and safe automotive components, says EUIPO. How to spot counterfeit automotive spare parts
Spotlight 7 www.aftermarketonline.net SEPTEMBER 2024 Auto giant Mercedes-Benz revealed on August 7 it was working with agencies including law enforcement authorities in a crackdown on counterfeit car parts amid concern over safety. In May and June 2023, paper air filters were seized that can cause serious accidents after installation. Counterfeit brake parts, wheels as well as body and steering parts were also seized. The counterfeit parts were destroyed after seizure, but last year alone the authorities seized more than 1.6 million MercedesBenz counterfeits in over 740 raids worldwide. The number of raids increased significantly by almost 20% compared to the previous year. Renata Jungo Brüngger, Mercedes-Benz board of management member for integrity, governance and sustainability said: “The counterfeiting industry generates enormous margins and has the structures of organised crime. “It endangers road safety, takes no account of the environment and stands neither for fair wages nor for occupational safety. There are no quality controls.” Brüngger said the company is determined to protect the reputation of its brand and also to protect its customers and legitimate supply chain. To date, in cooperation with the authorities, the car maker has been able to track down many counterfeit factories directly, Brüngger said. Raids are often preceded by months of investigation and preparation. The brand protectors at Mercedes-Benz check offers on websites, investigate indications of counterfeiting and conduct intensive research to identify the factories of the counterfeiters. The team makes the results available to the authorities responsible for conducting raids. In order to reliably detect product counterfeits, a trained eye and many years of experience are necessary, because a counterfeit often hardly differs visually from a genuine part. Mercedes-Benz said its global intellectual property enforcement team are repeatedly called in by authorities to quickly verify counterfeit parts. In 2023, an average of more than two raids per day took place worldwide. Counterfeiting networks are increasingly moving to online platforms and social media in order to distribute counterfeit products on a large scale. When trading, counterfeiters use the extensive anonymity and decentralised nature of online marketplaces and technologies. In 2023, the company’s brand protectors deleted more than 142,000 offers of counterfeit MercedesBenz products and content infringing trademark rights. Typical counterfeit product ‘alarm signals’ for parts buyers can include significantly lower prices, abnormalities in product quality or sales via dubious online sources. In some cases, it is immediately apparent from the product images or the designations that the products cannot be genuine, such as if Mercedes-Benz does not manufacture the products. However, the layperson will hardly be able to visually distinguish many of the offers from genuine products, the company said. belts to more common items such as floor mats and emblems, can compromise vehicle safety and performance. Counterfeit automotive spare parts not only infringe intellectual property rights but also endanger lives by compromising the safety and reliability of vehicles. According to EUIPO, investigations have shown that the majority of these counterfeit goods originate from outside Europe, with China (94%) and Hong Kong (5%) being the primary sources. This influx of counterfeit parts includes critical components like airbags, windshields, and accelerator pedals. “Meanwhile, the rise of online sales, including social media platforms, e-marketplaces, and various websites, has contributed to a surge in the availability of counterfeit automotive parts,” EUIPO said. “Online sales now account for 60% of global seizures of dangerous products intended for the EU market. The convenience of online shopping, combined with the lower risk of detection for counterfeiters and the trend of shipping in small batches, has made the internet a hotbed for counterfeit automotive parts.” The automotive industry is a strategic sector in many European and non-European countries and for that sector, profit is proportionally very small in relation to the investment made. This makes the sector even more sensitive to intellectual property rights infringement. In 2022, Spain’s Guarda Civil and Europol co-led ‘Operation Spare-off’ to tackle the counterfeit issue. Eighteen countries took part, including the UK. Mercedes-Benz safety drive to protect brand
News 8 www.aftermarketonline.net September 2024 Rise in new and used car sales ‘big opportunity’ for garages Latest figures showing continued growth in the UK’s new and used car markets presents a huge opportunity for workshops in terms of upskilling and services, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has told Aftermarket. SMMT confirmed on August 8 that the UK used car market has grown for the sixth consecutive quarter, rising 7.2% in the second quarter of this year, with increasing numbers of buyers switching to battery electric vehicles. The figures came just days after SMMT reported the UK new car market rose by 2.5% in July, representing two years of consecutive growth and marking the best performance for July since 2020. Nearly 148,000 new cars hit the roads. Peter Lawton, SMMT head of member sections, told Aftermarket: “Sustained growth in new car sales is bringing more of the latest generation electric, connected and driver assistance technologies onto our roads and into vehicles all across Britain. ‘Robust’ “There is a huge need and opportunity for workshops to keep on upskilling and expand their services while also maintaining millions of conventional vehicles to keep Britain on the move.” According to the SMMT, there were an additional 131,128 sales in the used car market in the second quarter of this year compared to the same period in 2023. Nearly 47,000 battery electric vehicles found new owners between April and June, a rise of nearly 53% resulting in, at 2.4%, the highest ever share of the market, up from 1.7% on the same period last year. Meanwhile, the UK’s light commercial vehicle market dropped 8.5% in July with 24,689 vans, 4x4s, pickups and taxis joining the road, according to the SMMT. However, SMMT said the overall market remains robust, with registrations up 2.7% year to date to become the best first seven months since 2019. Garage Hive has announced the official opening of its Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) approved training centre in Nottingham. The first IMI course to be held at the centre, housed in Garage Hive’s UK headquarters, is an intensive three-day programme aimed at helping garage staff become proficient users of the garage management system. Garage Hive director Alex Lindley said: “Giving staff the tools they need to do the job is a great first step. “Our goal is to give independent garages more than just software. We want to provide them with the training and support network to leverage its full potential.” Garage Hive opens IMI-approved centre Pictured: IMI business development manager Michelle Barrett with Garage Hive’s Dawn Metcalfe, Tom Langridge and Alex Lindley SBS Automotive, acquired by the Borg Automotive Group in 2023, has been fully integrated into the group as of the end of June and is now operating under the name of Borg Automotive Newman. Aside from Borg Automotive Newman (BAN), the group has two other business areas — Borg Automotive Reman and CPI. Both units remanufacture products, while BAN trades new units. BAN sales director Bo Maagaard said: “Apart from the new name, we are still the same company, the same people, and located at the same addresses.” SBS Automotive becomes Borg Automotive Newman The future belongs to e-mobility but combustion engines will be a key feature in the global auto markets for years to come, MAHLE’s aftermarket chief has said. Philipp Grosse Kleimann, a MAHLE management committee member and head of the aftermarket business, was speaking on July 9 as the unit reported record sales of nearly €1.3 billion (£1bn) in 2023. “The future clearly belongs to e-mobility — both on the road and in the workshop. Still, combustion engines will continue to play an important role in many parts of the world for some time to come,” he said. “By using renewable fuels, these engines can have a quick and sustainable impact on climate protection.” MAHLE said its BatteryPRO product line and five product groups — E-Safety, E-Scan, E-Health, E-Care and E-Charge — is already offering independent workshops a range of EV services. Georges Mourad, MAHLE Aftermarket’s global service solutions director, said: “Battery service is becoming increasingly important. BatteryPRO’s newly developed products are the beginning of a new generation of diagnostic and service solutions for EV, covering the entire life cycle from diagnosis to maintenance.” MAHLE aftermarket sales hit £1bn
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News 10 www.aftermarketonline.net September 2024 Premium seat manufacturer Recaro Automotive has entered administration, citing significant financial difficulties arising from “extreme price increases in recent crisis years” and the loss of an undisclosed major contract. The Stuttgart-headquartered company said it had filed for insolvency and a court in Germany approved preliminary selfadministration on July 29. However, the firm said it planned to maintain full production during the insolvency proceedings to continue fulfilling all existing orders and new customer inquiries. Shareholders have emphasised the importance of the organisation in the region for the group and have pledged their support for restructuring efforts, the company said. Recaro Automotive’s OEM partnerships include Mercedes-Benz and Aston Martin. The company said: “By working together as a team with our employees, suppliers, and customers through the possibility of an insolvency plan under German law, expect to stand on solid ground again in a timely manner.” The insolvency proceedings are limited to Recaro Automotive GmbH and do not affect any other group companies. Holger Blümle from law firm Schultze & Braun has been appointed as the preliminary custodian, while consulting firm Baker Tilly is providing legal advice. Recaro Automotive enters into administration Arnold Clark Autoparts boosts EV parts range Arnold Clark Autoparts has ramped up its EV parts range as it moves to strengthen its hold on the components market. The national motor factor said the significant expansion of its range positions the firm as a market leader offering the largest range of aftermarket EV parts, including popular Tesla components. The move came just seven months after data from the SMMT showed the millionth battery electric vehicle (BEV) had joined the roads in Britain. The SMMT also forecast that 414,000 new BEVs are expected to hit UK roads in 2024. Arnold Clark Autoparts’ EV range includes headlights, wipers, sensors, coil springs, brake discs and charging cables — across major names in the auto sector including Audi, BMW, BYD, Dacia, Ford, Hyundai, Nissan, Tesla, Volvo, Peugeot and Toyota. Steven McKenzie, assistant group buyer at Arnold Clark Autoparts, said: “We understand that electric mobility is gaining in popularity, and we are committed to supporting this transition by providing a robust range of parts that our customers can rely on.” Chessington, Stockport join GSF’s new branches GSF Car Parts is continuing its network expansion with the opening of an additional two branches — in Chessington and Stockport. Doors opened at the branch in Chessington and regional distribution centre in Stockport on July 29, taking the total number of new branches to five during the summer months. The Chessington branch spans 6,422 sq ft and supports the network with four new vans and three bikes. GSF said there are plans to expand this fleet as the customer base grows. Simon Gwyn-Griffiths, Chessington branch manager, said the launch will help give garages in the area faster access to essential parts and improve overall service quality. The 14,061 sq ft Stockport site, eight miles from Manchester, is equipped with 10 vans. GSF said the centre aims to improve delivery speeds throughout the city, serving local garages, national accounts, and click-and-collect customers. The latest openings follow the announcement of plans for a national distribution centre in Wolverhampton, which GSF told Aftermarket is expected to come on stream in the fourth quarter of this year.
News 11 www.aftermarketonline.net September 2024 O A1 Remote Diagnostics has reported a surge in demand for its remote and mobile diagnostic and ADAS services. A1, part of the A1 ADAS Solutions Group, said the increase in demand was due to reduced key-to-key times — which it said is an ongoing problem for technicians, as the complexity of modern vehicles makes diagnosing fault lights and accessing secure gateways increasingly difficult. Managing director Iain Molloy said: “We’re now seeing workshops struggle with something as basic as resetting the service light on a VW ID3. A garage may feel its only option is to take the vehicle to a main dealer, but this can easily add a week or two onto what should be a fiveminute job. “We’re changing the game for garages and bodyshops by working with them to make jobs that once took days, take minutes.” O Global coatings group Axalta has announced a new partnership to boost sustainable refinishing work, with an initial focus on customers in the UK and wider Europe. Axalta said on July 16 it was partnering with Spain’s CESVIMAP centre — an R&D leader in the collision repair industry. Under the partnership, Axalta’s refinish customers will have access to CESVIMAP’s Move2Green programme, which offers online self-assessment aimed at evaluating the environmental impact of work carried out by bodyshops. The assessment analyses factors including energy efficiency, water use, waste management, responsible consumption and carbon footprint. O Cataclean has secured a deal to become the official supplier of fuel and engine additives to the Kwik Fit group. Under the partnership, announced at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on July 11, Cataclean’s additives product range will be distributed via NAPA to more than 700 Kwik Fit retail autocentres across the UK. Cataclean sales director William Jones said: “Our fuel and exhaust system cleaner is an ideal product for Kwik Fit and its customers, offering a comprehensive solution that cleans the entire fuel and exhaust system in one simple treatment.” “This helps to reduce harmful emissions, improve MPG, and keep vehicles running better, cleaner, and longer.” News in brief Find your nearest dealer: rexnordic.uk I 01355 377370 4 in 1 mobile heater cooler for professional use ›› REX NORDIC HP-19 NEW WARRANTY ACTIVATE3YEARSWARRANTYREXNORDIC.COM + YEAR AIR CLEANING • HEPA (MERV8 or H13-grade) filtration (additional equipment) • Improve indoor air quality COOLING ›› Recommended area for heating / cooling (up to 550m3) ›› Spot cooling with ducts DRYING ›› Dehumidification max 118 l/day HEATING ›› Low power consumption – high output (2,1 ¤ 5,6kW) WORKSHOPS I WAREHOUSES I PRODUCTION LINES OFFICES I RESTAURANTS
News 12 www.aftermarketonline.net September 2024 Proposals to reform the apprenticeship levy have been unveiled as part of the legislative agenda of the new Labour government, outlined in the king’s speech. Reform of what auto industry leaders have described as the “flawed” levy, along with plans for a Skills England Bill, was announced as King Charles set out the government’s legislative programme in July. Sue Robinson, chief executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association, welcomed the proposed overhaul of the apprenticeship levy, but said it was crucial ministers tackled a range of issues affecting the automotive retail sector. Robinson said the government must also “restimulate” the private EV market and hold talks with the NFDA and the wider automotive sector on any major policy changes related to the ZEV mandate and business rates. “The intensifying skills shortage continues to detrimentally impact the automotive retail sector,” she said. “Increasing investment in training EV technicians is essential, particularly as more electric vehicles hit our roads. In an NFDA survey conducted in the run-up to the general election (see the July/August issue of Aftermarket), 82% of respondents said technicians were a key concern in terms of skills shortages affecting their business. More than 53% identified sales executive shortages. The CEO of the Independent Garage Association, Stuart James, said: “The creation of Skills England and the reforms to the apprenticeship levy are particularly important for our sector. “We are eager to continue our discussions with the new government, hoping to advance positive changes and support for our industry.” 20,000 auto vacancies ‘still ELJ JDS WR ᎮOOૼ VD\V ,0, The UK’s automotive sector is continuing to “chip away” at the significant skills gap – but employers still face a huge task in filling vacancies, the Institute of the Motor Industry has revealed. The IMI’s latest vacancy rate tracker for June 2024, using data from the Office for National Statistics, shows a reduction from 3.7 to 3.6 vacancies for every 100 employees. However, the automotive sector remains No.2 on the ‘vacancies by sector’ chart — behind the hospitality sector at 3.8 vacancies per 100 employees, the IMI said on July 26. Having dropped by 0.1% on the previous month, the automotive industry now has around 20,000 vacancies, across more than 200 varied roles. IMI executive chair Kevin Finn said: “At the half-year point we can see clear evidence of a steady chipping away of the skills gap in the automotive sector. “One of the most significant challenges is the technological advances in automotive, which means each vacancy is competing against tech roles across a wider range of industries. It’s critical that we do everything we can to change perceptions of what a career in automotive offers to effectively attract talent from other sectors.” Finn said the IMI’s ‘There’s More to Motor’ campaign is helping to shift perceptions and encourage more people at all levels to consider a career in automotive. Meanwhile, the Autotech Academy, a division of the automotive sector’s training and recruitment specialist, Autotech Group, said more than 1,000 newly qualified young mechanics are looking for work — despite IMI figures showing the sector could see a shortage of 51,000 vehicle technicians by 2030. “The core of this issue lies in the difficulties newly qualified vehicle technicians encounter when trying to secure their first roles within the motor trade,” the academy said. “This challenge not only prevents the career growth of these promising professionals but also widens the industry’s skill gap, threatening its future sustainability.” As part of its paid internship programme, each intern is provided with a complete tool kit and uniform, ensuring they are ready to work from day one, the academy said. Interns receive hourly pay from the academy throughout their 6-12 month placement, alleviating any employment or PAYE issues for the employers. At the end of this period, they either secure permanent employment with the employer or move on with valuable experience. During the internship employers have the chance to assess interns’ capabilities and fit within their business, offering a risk-free way to ‘grow their own’ talent. .LQJૼV VSHHFK SOHGJH WR UHIRUP ૻᎯDZHGૼ OHY\
News 13 www.aftermarketonline.net September 2024 A newly qualified vehicle technician at a Nissan dealership in Somerset has been congratulated on his achievement. Angus Brown, 21, a member of the aftersales team at FJ Chalke Nissan Wincanton, recently qualified as a level 3 light vehicle technician with the help and support of the FJ Chalke Academy. Brown was something of a star pupil, passing all his practical and theory exams at the first attempt, the dealership said. Additionally, he diligently completed his off-the-job hours and job cards, key requirements for the level 3 qualification. Brown said: ‘‘I found my apprenticeship very enjoyable, although it was hard work at times. It’s great to work with such a closeknit team of colleagues and I’ve really enjoyed my career with the company so far.’’ Asked if he had any advice for apprentices following in his footsteps, he said: ‘‘Try not to get behind in your studies — it can be difficult to catch up! And don’t be afraid to ask questions — after all, everyone around you has been in the same position at the start of their careers.’’ Academy manager Kezia Fowler said the team is “super-proud” of Brown, who attained the qualification after three years of hard work. “His journey with us so far has been marked by his determination and passion for the automotive industry.” ૻ1R TXLFN Ꭾ [ IRU JDUDJH skills crisis’, PM told Easy2Recruit has warned there can be “no quick fix” to resolve the skills crisis facing garages and the automotive sector — despite the government’s launch of a new Skills England body. Prime minister Sir Keir Starmer said on July 22 the new body would “bring together the fractured skills landscape” and boost skills training across the nation. Easy2Recruit CEO and founder Ambi Singh (pictured), whose agency specialises in helping UK garages and automotive businesses hire high-quality overseas talent, said the government should be praised for launching Skills England so soon after taking office. However, he said ramping up apprenticeships in the garage sector would take time. “We cannot expect this new organisation to be able to immediately correct decades of drift on the skills front,” said Singh, whose agency specialises in helping UK garages and automotive businesses hire high-quality overseas talent. Starmer said Skills England will be set up in phases over the next year. The new body will replace the existing Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education. Education secretary Bridget Phillipson said the move was needed because the existing skills system is “fragmented and broken”. Once set up, Skills England will work alongside the Migration Advisory Committee to identify where skills are required to cut down on the need to bring in overseas workers. However, Singh said: “There needs to be a range of recruitment options available. Garages are increasingly looking overseas to fill technician roles for the simple reason that there are not enough mechanics available in the UK.” He cited Institute of the Motor Industry figures indicating that the automotive sector faces a 160,000 staff shortfall by 2030, with many of these being vehicle technicians. “It will take a long time to nurture a new generation of technicians, and until the apprenticeship system is functioning properly again, garages will need to source overseas staff.” Dealership praise for newly TXDOLᎮ HG WHFKQLFLDQ $QJXV Angus Brown receives his qualification from Kezia Fowler and the Wincanton aftersales team. Integrate your sales, stock management, accounting and reporting processes in one easy-to-use package. Business management software designed for the Automotive aftermarket Autopart Used by 7/10 Motor factors For further information or to request a demo, please visit www.mamsoft.co.uk/autopart or call us on 01226 352901
News 14 www.aftermarketonline.net September 2024 /LFHQVLQJ ELG WR ᎯXVK RXW XQODZIXO KDQG FDU ZDVKLQJ ,1(26 VLJQV XS IRU 702 VWDQGDUGV DFFUHGLWDWLRQ Proposals that could pave the way for a national licensing scheme for hand car washes are set to be published later this year — as the government pledges a crackdown on unlawful business activity and unlawful working in the sector, Aftermarket has learned. Home secretary Yvette Cooper said on July 21 that car washes and nail bars would be among businesses targeted by immigration officers over the summer. Prof Ian Clark — who is leading the Work Informalisation & Place Research Group at Nottingham Trent University in preparing the car wash licensing scheme study — told Aftermarket he welcomed fresh impetus for the work. Clark, a work and employment specialist, said car washes and nail bars are the two “premier sectors” at risk of unlawful working practices and potential links to criminal activities. He said his team are working with the Car Wash Association (CWA) and Petrol Retailers Association as a “critical friend”. Both associations have used the team’s research in submissions to ministers. Work on the proposed licensing scheme was paused when the general election was called but has now resumed. CWA executive director Gordon Balmer said: “In a modern society, there is no place for modern slavery. We welcome the government’s initiative to target businesses employing illegal workers in car washes. However, it is disappointing that it has taken so long to address this well-documented issue. “The CWA has long been deeply concerned about the persistent presence of non-compliant hand car washes operating illegally and disregarding health and safety standards.” Balmer said the CWA had long lobbied previous ministers over the issue but had been “largely ignored”. “We were early supporters and funders of the Responsible Car Wash Scheme, which submitted a comprehensive report to the Home Office in September 2022. Unfortunately, the report did not receive the attention it deserved.” INEOS Automotive has become the latest company to sign up to The Motor Ombudsman’s Motor Industry Code of Practice for new cars. INEOS joins a portfolio of 45 vehicle manufacturers in the UK with accreditation to TMO’s Chartered Trading Standards Institute-approved Motor Industry Codes of Practice for new cars and vehicle sales. Accreditation means pledging to go beyond standards required by law with regards to the provision of new vehicles and new car warranties, including ensuring that spare parts are made available once a new model is launched. INEOS Automotive is a subsidiary of INEOS, a leading manufacturer of petrochemicals, speciality chemicals and oil products. The 4X4 maker’s accreditation under the Vehicle Sales Code covers consumers configuring and ordering any model from the marque’s expanding Grenadier line-up directly via the INEOS Automotive website. Bill Fennell, TMO chief ombudsman and MD, said INEOS’ accreditation comes as part “of our overriding goal of continuing to drive standards even higher in the automotive sector and shaping best practice for the benefit of businesses and consumers”. Fennell said in an exclusive article for Aftermarket, published in May, that cost of living pressures were a likely key driver in the record number of service and repair cases referred to TMO’s alternative dispute resolution service in a single quarter. ([RO H[SRUWV DZDUG IRU $OJHULD GLVWULEXWRU UK-based Exol Lubricants has presented its top award for exports to its distributor in Algeria. Exol Algerie has been honoured with the firm’s export distributor of the year award for 2023. An Exol spokesperson told Aftermarket the award is presented annually to one of its export distributors in recognition of outstanding performance, growth and dedication to excellence in the Algerian market. Exol Algerie holds an exclusive and long-standing agreement that grants it the sole rights to blend and market the entire Exol product range at its blending plant in Oran, northwest Algeria. The agreement was signed in 2017, after Exol Algerie unveiled the 40,000 MT/year blending facility. Last year, Exol Algerie made significant investments in packaging enhancements and introduced multi-language labels with QR codes — showcasing its dedication to customer satisfaction and brand elevation, the company said.
News 15 www.aftermarketonline.net September 2024 Intercounty invests £2m in new site, apprentice drive Mercedes-Benz dealership Intercounty Truck & Van has announced a £2 million investment into a new service and parts location in Bedfordshire, including a recruitment drive for the next generation of technicians. Intercounty said on July 15 that Dunstable’s Woodside Industrial Estate site offers a state-of-the-art workshop for the servicing and maintenance of all makes of vans and over-the-counter parts. EV facilities include eight charging points to keep customers and the local EV infrastructure moving. The site, just minutes from J11/J11a of the M1 and London Luton Airport, will also house three 24-hour service vans offering roadside assistance in the local area and emergency customer site visits. There are plans to introduce full 24-hour servicing at the dealership in the near future. The dealership said it will actively recruit future skilled technicians through an apprentice programme and take part in the MercedesBenz EV technical training pathway. Intercounty MD Nick Skillman (pictured) said: “The launch of our new Dunstable site offers incredible opportunity, both for us as a business and for the local economy, particularly as we welcome the transition to electric. “We’ve been operating as a Mercedes-Benz franchise for over 20 years, covering Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire, Buckinghamshire and Lincolnshire.” Simon Neill, customer operations director at Mercedes-Benz Vans in the UK, said Intercounty had been a partner of MercedesBenz Vans for over 20 years. He said the site is set to provide customers and those travelling up and down the M1 with a huge range of services, parts, EV expertise and roadside assistance cover. “We’re also incredibly pleased to see Intercounty Truck & Van investing in 30 more roles that will bring new talent and skill sets to the Mercedes-Benz Vans brand network.” SMMT in Germany mission for UK auto investment Trade partnerships and international investment are among key priorities to boost the UK’s automotive sector, SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes has said. Hawes revealed the SMMT has already launched a “fresh focus” on ramping up trade relationships – hosting automotive representatives from Britain and Germany’s business departments in Berlin during the summer. The Berlin trade mission was organised in partnership with SMMT’s counterparts, the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA). “From trade and industrial policy to the skills transition and automated vehicles, our two markets are intertwined and many of our challenges shared,” Hawes said. “By working together and sharing best practice, we can seek successful, sustainable solutions that deliver a new generation of mobility and prosperity in the UK and across the EU.” Hawes also welcomed the new UK government’s plans to go ahead with a global investment summit later this year. “Putting our country front of mind for international investors is key, so is renewing the UK’s global trade strategy.” VCDS ENGINE DIAGNOSTICS TRUSTED & AFFORDABLE KITS FOR MECHANICS & GARAGE WORKSHOPS ADVANCED LEVEL DIAGNOSTICS & CODING SUPPORT FOR VW, AUDI, SEAT & SKODA MODELS WITH UNLIMITED VIN, WI-FI CAPABILITY, CABLE OPTIONS & FREE SOFTWARE UPDATES NEED MORE INFO? OUR TEAM IS HERE TO HELP! 01491 834666 MI-UK.COM
Top Technician & Top Garage 16 www.aftermarketonline.net SEPTEMBER 2024 Garage champions racing to finishing line As we enter the final stretch of Aftermarket’s industry-leading competitions for this year, we reveal one set of semi-finalists — and have an exciting announcement about plans for 2025… The excitement is mounting as we are now just weeks away from crowning the winners of this year’s Top Technician and Top Garage. Semi-finalists for Top Technician revealed for the first time in this issue are listed in the scroll of honour on the facing page. The heat will be on at the Delphi Training Centre in Warwick this month, where all semi-finalists each have to successfully conduct five 20-minute fault-finding tasks on live vehicles and be scored accordingly. The highest scoring five will go through to the finals of the competition and will be announced at our awards evening on Saturday, October 26 at the Double Tree by Hilton in Coventry. The semi-finalists of the Top Garage contest will be unveiled in our October issue and the winners of both competitions will be announced in a special November edition of Aftermarket magazine. Luke Garratt, UK & Nordics technical services manager for Delphi, said: “As a global parts manufacturer, supporting and engaging the end user of products in a meaningful way can be tricky, especially as a technician’s time in the workshop is extremely valuable. The story so far Now in its sixth year Top Garage is dedicated to helping develop, reward and add value to the UK’s independent garage network and champion their success. This year’s competition includes an additional category — Mobile Mechanic. Other categories are: 1-3 Employees, 4-6 Employees, 7-9 Employees 10+ Employees, Multisite, Top Service Advisor BEN Workplace Health & Wellbeing. Top Garage is run in conjunction with Top Technician, the annual competition for technicians with independent, fast-fit, and franchised workshops across the UK.
Top Technician & Top Garage 17 www.aftermarketonline.net SEPTEMBER 2024 “For Delphi, sponsoring and hosting Aftermarket Top Technician & Top Garage is about much more than just putting our name to an event for publicity and exposure. We want to actively engage with technicians, continually showing that we support their ongoing skills development and dedication to the industry. “By providing the perfect environment for the competition to take place and our technical resource to assist with the technical faults and judging process, we look to become a part of the technicians thought process.” Garratt added: “Delphi proudly supports the Aftermarket Top Technician & Top Garage competition due to its high standards and the fiercely competitive yet supportive nature of the event. This competition not only highlights the exceptional skills of technicians but also promotes an environment of continuous improvement and professional growth. We firmly believe in recognising and enhancing the expertise and dedication that drive our industry forward.” Marc Perkins, automotive sales director UK Ireland, said: “Top Garage & Top Technician highlight and reward the best in the industry, and Castrol & The Race Group are delighted to join in the celebration as Full Event Partner for both competitions this year,” “The focus on technical excellence, business development and networking with like-minded industry experts line up with the values we encourage through our Castrol branded programmes. Wishing all those taking part ‘good luck’, we’re looking forward to sharing your successes on October 26!” We are proud to announce an exciting new development for 2025, when we will also be looking for the UK’s Top Apprentice, as part of our established Top Technician competition. A formal launch announcement of Top Apprentice will be made at The Aftermarket Event, on October 2-3 at Farnborough International — to find out the latest about that, see pages 18-24. Top Apprentice will join Top Technician and Top Garage in 2025. Top Apprentice will be open to all apprentices nationwide who are currently in level 2 or level 3 study, from all colleges and training centres. The competition will officially open in early December but for now, all interested can register their interest online: https://bit.ly/4fJVMb2 Meet the Top Garage judges James Dillon, TechTopics; Andy Crook, Atomic Success; Damien Coleman, Snap-on; Jim Wollaston, Castrol & The Race Group; Jack Davis, Topdon; Luke Garratt, Delphi; Ellen Plumer, Ben – Automotive Industry Charity; Mark Darvill, Hillclimb Garage; Simon Frost, ALLDATA; Mike Schlup, JLM Lubricants UK/Kalimex; Matt Robinson, LKQ Euro Car Parts; Buke Chandler, MOTUL. (Top Technician judges will be featured in next month’s magazine) Gary Birse Adam Cannell John Fountain John Hall James McCallum Andrew Ruellan John Shuttleworth Bryan Swales David Weston Gordon Wright Top Technician VHPL Ꭾ QDOLVWV Thanks to our sponsors: 1RZ JHW UHDG\ WR Ꭾ QG WKH 8.ૼV 7RS $SSUHQWLFH
ALL UNDER ONE ROOF DIAGNOSTICS, TRAINING, TOOLS, TECHNOLOGY & WELLBEING DEDICATED TO THE INDEPENDENT GARAGE & BODYSHOP SECTOR 2024 EXHIBITORS INCLUDE:
Fault finding demonstrations on live vehicles Live audience Industry updates New tools, equipment & software Find out more about the Top Technician competition Hear from and network with industry experts Live panel discussions and seminars covering major issues and developing market trends Health, Safety & Wellbeing Content in association with Ben - The Automotive Industry Charity. Discover ways to level-up your business Ask our speakers and panels your own questions Ryan Fuller Managing Director T: +44 (0) 1732 370340 E: ryan.fuller@dfamedia.co.uk
The Aftermarket Event preview 20 www.aftermarketonline.net SEPTEMBER 2024 High-performance lubricants brand Motul has become the latest major industry name to support The Aftermarket Event takingpart as a presenting partner. The decision extends Motul’s long collaboration with Aftermarket magazine, as the brand is in its fourth consecutive year of being a main partner of the Top Technician & Top Garage competitions (see pages 16&17). A feature of Motul’s participation to date has been a variety of incredible machinery on display at the Top Technician & Top Garage finals and at the awards. This ranges from Le Mans race cars, to the Shelby Cobra that featured in the Elvis Presley movie, ‘Viva Las Vegas’. This year again, Motul will bring along something exciting. Watch this space… Now also featuring at Farnborough, Motul will host the welcome area as visitors enter the show — as well as having a stand to showcase its workshop offer and latest product ranges, in addition to helping and advising those attending on technical lubricant and fluid-related issues. Motul brings its own rich history to Farnborough, the home of pioneers. The brand dates back more than 170 years, making it older than the car, and in terms of lubricants it has been responsible for the three biggest steps forward in lubricant history in the last 70 years: Multigrade motor oil, Semi Synthetic and Fully Synthetic Motor Oil — all Motul firsts. Motul said: “The Top Technician & Top Garage initiative sits well with the Motul ethos of quality and promoting best practice. We welcome the chance to interact with the UK’s leading garages and technicians — and this year, across The Aftermarket Event, we will be featuring our NGEN next generation sustainable lubricants, our latest Additive range and the Motul BioClean sustainable, solvent-free parts cleaning system.” To join us at The Aftermarket Event as a visitor or to become an exhibitor, contact Ryan Fuller ryan.fuller@dfamedia.co.uk +44(0)1732 370340. REGISTER NOW Farnborough opens its doors to welcome the UK garage sector All roads lead to Farnborough on October 2-3 for the launch of this unique, two-day live event, featuring an unmissable mix of information, technology and skills for everyone working in and around the garage trade F arnborough International, home to the world’s most prestigious aerospace events, is now ready to set an exhilarating pace on the ground too as host of The Aftermarket Event. Sarah Marshall, venue director of the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre, said: “We are very excited to be welcoming The Aftermarket Event to our award-winning venue this October. “At Farnborough International, we thrive on supporting independent companies organising the launch of their products into the market. “Utilising our dynamic event spaces, The Aftermarket Event will provide the independent garage and bodyshop sector a platform to showcase their practices, products and training opportunities.” Marshall added: “I look forward to welcoming the DfA Media Group and The Aftermarket Event audience through our doors.” Ryan Fuller, managing director of Aftermarket publisher DFA Media Group said: “We are very much looking forward to holding the inaugural event. Farnborough is the perfect venue to present the very best from the UK garage sector. “With a central location, free parking, and outstanding facilities, we believe it will tick all the boxes for our visitors!” Farnborough has long been the nation’s go-to destination for today’s and tomorrow’s pioneers. On October 2-3, it will be the focus for everyone working in and around the garage trade — showcasing technology, skills, and the latest information and data powering all aspects of the aftermarket. There is still time to take part in The Aftermarket Event, but the clock is ticking so register now. Motul joins Event as Presenting Partner
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