Business 13 www.aftermarketonline.net DECEMBER 2024/JANUARY 2025 ongoing cost of living pressures, including difficulties with new vehicle finance, will see motorists hanging on to their ICE vehicles for longer than ever. This will create higher demand for servicing and repairs for independent workshops and will create more opportunities for motor factors and workshops to upsell quality additives designed to keep aging vehicles in top condition. Whether it’s blocked DPFs or leaking cooling systems, additives that help keep your customers on the road for less will be worth their weight in gold. Matt Selby, sales and marketing director at Schaeffler Vehicle Lifetime Solutions UK, says the impact of ongoing technological advancement in the new year will require garages and suppliers to continue to innovate... As the car parc continues to electrify, technicians will need to keep up with upskilling. With a shortage of staff already afflicting the industry, it is up to those in the sector to drive the change. This will be one of the key trends for the most forwardlooking organisations. Last November, Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket officially rebranded as Schaeffler Vehicle Lifetime Solutions, following the full integration of Vitesco Technologies Group into Schaeffler. The move reflects the changing face of the sector and positions the company as a complete solutions provider rather than just a parts supplier. Going into 2025 and beyond, this approach will become increasingly crucial. The aftermarket faces a dynamic shift as we head into 2025, says Glen Callum Associates (GCA) director Glen Shepherd… This will be driven by technological advancements, evolving workforce needs and an increasingly competitive recruitment landscape. The skills gap has been one of the most pressing issues faced over the past year and will continue to be so in the future. With experienced professionals leaving the sector and new roles emerging faster than they can be filled, GCA has focused on helping businesses adopt a skillsbased hiring approach. By prioritising transferable skills from allied industries, we have helped companies expand their talent pool, enabling them to find candidates who bring fresh perspectives and problem-solving capabilities. The automotive aftermarket is evolving rapidly, with new roles emerging across areas like product development, IT, analytics, automation and EV infrastructure. Many of these roles didn’t exist a decade ago, creating exciting opportunities for technology-driven professionals. Another area that requires focus is the diversification of the workforce. As older workers stay in the industry longer, their experience and insights become invaluable in mentoring younger generations. Mark Hallam, marketing manager UK & Ireland for ZF Aftermarket, says the company envisages an industry united in its commitment to quality, safety and innovation going into 2025… Collaboration across the supply chain, from parts manufacturers to workshops, is essential to overcoming challenges like substandard components and skill gaps. By prioritising high-quality products, embracing technological advancements and investing in training, the aftermarket can not only meet rising consumer expectations but also elevate its standing within the broader automotive ecosystem. As we look to 2025, the automotive aftermarket is poised at a critical juncture, with rapid technological advances and shifting consumer expectations reshaping the industry landscape. While there are no shortage of opportunities, significant challenges must be addressed to ensure sustained growth and resilience and ZF Aftermarket is working to equip the sector with tools, training and innovations to navigate the evolving landscape. A growing concern in recent years has been the influx of low-quality components into the aftermarket. These subpar products not only compromise vehicle safety but also threaten the reputation of the entire sector. Kelvin Olds, product director at First Line, says the future of the automotive aftermarket will continue to be shaped by consumer trends and economic pressures… As the cost of living continues to rise, a clear trend has emerged: drivers are holding onto their vehicles for longer than ever before. This trend emphasises the growing need for reliable maintenance of older cars, which are statistically more prone to breakdowns. The longevity of modern cars, combined with financial pressures, has led drivers to prioritise maintenance over replacement. However, as vehicles age, their maintenance needs become more complex, particularly as they accumulate mileage. We are at the forefront of supporting this shift, offering the parts and expertise needed to keep aging vehicles on the road through our brands First Line, Borg & Beck and KeyParts. DECEMBER/JANUARY 2025
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