CLEPA Aftermarket Conference 2018

Connectivity and new vehicle ownership models have the potential of disrupting the traditional value chain and the industry will have to adapt to find new collaboration models and partners and as such create new opportunities. These amongst others were clear trends identified at the 9^th edition of the Aftermarket conference, organised by the European Association of Automotive Suppliers (CLEPA) in Brussels on March 21st and 22nd 2018.

Around 300 participants gathered at Europe’s biggest aftermarket event.

The audience, consisting of representatives from the European Commission and Parliament, other associations, automotive suppliers, vehicle manufacturers, wholesale distribution, trading groups and press, discussed the drivers for change and disruption within the automotive industry.

Presentations and key notes from established and new players identified new technologies on vehicles and the production of parts, the change of vehicle ownership as well as upcoming new business models as main drivers for the transformation. New competences, other success factors and a different mind-set will be needed to manage the future competitive challenges with the consumer in the centre.

Roberto Vavassori, CLEPA president, reflecting on the conference said, ‘New players are on the verge of entering the automotive aftermarket sector, creating new mobility concepts. Although the real impact via e.g. electrification and connectivity is not to be expected before 2025, time is crucial, and suppliers need define their future positions as soon as possible.’

SHARE