‘Survive and Thrive’ – 2015 IAAF conference explores the future of the independent aftermarket
The IAAF Annual Conference, sponsored by Autoparts UK, addressed some of the major issues affecting the industry, as well as considering the level of impact ever-changing technology will have on the aftermarket in the future with its ceaseless development at the IAAF’s most invigorating conference to date.
Held at the ICC, Birmingham, the conference hosted a myriad of enthusiastic speakers discussing intriguing content regarding the future of the aftermarket, leading to engaging ‘Q&A’ sessions with a motivated audience. Helpful hints on how to invest in the future of the automotive industry were offered throughout the day for the independent aftermarket.
Wendy Williamson, IAAF chief executive, welcomed the delegates with some thought-provoking reflections, highlighting significant changes internally – such as the appointment of an additional IAAF head, Mike Smallbone and new member friendly website – as well as numerous external changes that have taken place in the independent aftermarket in 2015.
Williamson also outlined the latest activity the IAAF has carried out to combat unwelcome legislation affecting the aftermarket such as its plans to tackle recent proposals by George Osborne in his summer budget speech to extend the frequency of MOTs, as well as its communication with Vauxhall over Zafira fires.
With Williamson recently being appointed on the board of FIGIEFA, the importance of the many threats coming out of the EU was emphasized; Neil Pattemore from FIGIEFA echoed these concerns in his afternoon presentation focusing on technical threats in particular and the importance of data privacy and raising awareness to the need for legislative framework.
Following on from Williamson, Quentin Le Hetet from GIPA revealed some surprising statistics about drivers’ lack of knowledge regarding their rights when it comes to servicing newer vehicles outside the manufacturer network. He also highlighted the need for the independent aftermarket to prepare itself for the rapid increase of hybrid cars and to also educate the public about the services it offers as dealerships can currently take advantage of drivers’ lack of information.
Steve Carter from eXponetia also urged the industry to ready itself for the rapid increase of hybrid cars. With growing concern for the environment and emission standards constantly changing, Ford has announced that 40 percent of its new cars will have electric or hybrid engines in the next four years, and so it is essential the aftermarket adapts for the ‘beginning of the end for the internal combustion engine.’
The headline speaker of the day, Dr. Ben Wood, also looked at how technology is affecting the independent aftermarket, capturing the audience’s attention with his intriguing topic: ‘How far away is the 3D printed car?’. Wood explained the step-by-step procedure and emphasised how it is unique in that it offers something not possible in the usual manufacturing process, focusing on the many benefits and opportunities that it provides. With the process not quite ready at present, Wood encouraged the aftermarket to not let the efficient and cost-effective opportunity slip by when it comes round.
After lunch, Peter Golding from Fleetcheck was on hand to discuss the importance of regularly servicing a fleet of vehicles, as well as ensuring each driver works safely and follows safety advice as companies could be liable if this is not adhered to correctly.
Later, Peter Seagroatt followed on from the morning’s discussion on data, delivering an overview of how companies in the aftermarket can successfully measure data across the UK, helping them provide the very best service and costs to their customers.
The conference was hosted by the much-admired sports broadcaster, John Inverdale, who did a fantastic job of engaging the audience and keeping them entertained with his personal anecdotes, lightening the mood and creating a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere among the delegates.
In between speeches, the IAAF conference provided advertisement breaks from companies in the IAAF supplier village, including Lawgisitics, Financial and Credit Insurance Services Limited and April UK, IAAF’s lifestyle protection partner.
Williamson said: “The conference was one of our best yet and ran incredibly smoothly, offering plenty of industry expertise and advice, helping to educate the independent aftermarket about issues that could greatly benefit it in the future.”
