News 10 www.aftermarketonline.net MAY 2025 Melett is turbocharging investment in the aftermarket with the opening of a new European production plant marking its 30 years in the business. From its launch as a small UK business, the turbocharger expert has gone from strength to strength — and confirmed in April the launch of a new turbocharger core assembly production facility in Poland. Melett said the move enhances its European capability and creates a centralised hub to serve customers across the European Union, setting the stage for further growth and innovation. Chris Wallhead, managing director of Melett, said: “Our latest expansion in Poland is a testament to our continued growth and commitment to serving our European customers with excellence.” Melett turns 30 with new assembly line The spring statement unveiled by chancellor Rachel Reeves in March failed to provide the support that independent garages desperately need, industry leaders have said. Reeves (pictured) announced plans to cut billions of pounds of proposed spending, amid gloomy economic prospects. Independent Garage Association chief executive Stuart James acknowledged government efforts to tackle the country’s finances, but said: “While there are positive elements, such as the focus on infrastructure, the lack of targeted relief for small businesses and continued uncertainty around employment regulations make it difficult for independent garages to plan for the future. ‘The IGA will examine the statement in more detail to understand its full implications and urge the government to provide greater clarity and targeted support to ensure the sustainability of the independent garage sector, which plays a crucial role in keeping the UK safe and mobile.” The increase in the National Living Wage to £12.21 per hour from April 1 and the rise in employer National Insurance Contributions to 15% from April 6 add to financial pressures for the independent garage sector, many of which are already operating on tight margins, the IGA said. *DUDJHVૼ e P ERRVW LQ ᎮUVW year of online programme Independent garages have generated more than £46 million worth of business over the past year in partnership with UK comparison site BookMyGarage, according to the business. The income boost has been for garages signed up to the servicing and MOT price comparison and booking website’s Accelerate package, which was launched last year. Nearly 173,000 retail customers have booked services and MOTs with independent garages on the Accelerate programme since its launch, the platform has claimed. In the first two months of 2025 alone, Accelerate garages secured £9.7 million worth of the platform’s £15.4 million retail business, accounting for 63% of all bookings. BookMyGarage chief marketing officer Jessica Potts said: “Many of our garage partners don’t have the time or the specialist knowledge to produce targeted and compelling online marketing campaigns whilst a marketing agency can be too expensive. The market was crying out for a solution that allowed garages to grow their customer base from digital channels with a financially riskfree model.” Spring statement ‘failed to support garages Jessica Potts with the owner of Portsmouth’s Smile Servicing & Repairs, Nick Dray
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