Aftermarket June 2022

JUNE 2022 AFTERMARKET 21 processed electronically, which prevents diagnostic tools manufacturers and automotive data publishers from creating products and solutions for new vehicles. Consumers prefer to use the independent aftermarket by a significant margin; More than three quarters of non-MOT trips every year are to independent garages. If they were unable to do so we estimate that this would cost each of them an extra £100 annually – or a staggering £2.4 billion in total. Hardly a helpful additional burden during the country’s worst cost of living crisis in 50 years. However, the CMA must be presented with overwhelming evidence of these risks and now is the time for the industry to speak up. Our concern has always been that this could turn into an asymmetrical legal battle over the legislation between the might of the global automotive giants and thousands of diverse SME aftermarket businesses. Through the consultation and the efforts of UKAFCAR, my sincere hope is that we can push for an updated regulatory framework that ensures a level playing field and stops anti-competitive behaviour before it happens. In the EU, an evaluation of MVBER has concluded that it remains useful, but its effectiveness could be improved. Something we hope the CMA takes note of. There is also a concern in Europe that MVBER when renewed will not be given the additional strength it needs to protect consumers and motorists in today’s rapidly evolving automotive sector. Opportunity The UK now has an opportunity to forge its own path and set the standard by introducing much stronger protections. Of course, there is also the risk that the UK does too little, with the rights of consumers and the viability of independent businesses gradually eroded as OEMs create ever larger monopolies. This is perhaps the single biggest threat to ever face the aftermarket. This is perhaps the single biggest threat to ever face the aftermarket ” tarline range covers items et The S aftermark of the fast moving applications in the vehicle suspension available from stock. Covering most tarline has over 200 references for air S ange Overview R Suspension Air Y ARRANT W S YEAR 3 . and warranty need to reuse old parts, saving fitment time s no ’ . This means there s and relay valve block , spring range comes complete with the cage replace air suspension systems. Most of our air The range includes everything required to . G plus many more A , Mercedes, JLR frequently replaced for BMW . and V eurocarp omnipart. Find out more abo Call your loc com/omnihub/ arts. ut this range – al branch now!