IAAF to warn aftermarket “be primed for digital revolution”

Wendy Williamson, chief executive of the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) will address challenges faced by the aftermarket in the digital era, when she delivers a speech to delegates at Automechanika Birmingham next month.

Held in the Aftermarket Seminar Theatre on 5 June from 11:15-11:45am, Williamson will look at the opportunities, technology and legislation available to support a competitive, free to access automotive industry in the digital age.

Nowadays almost every new vehicle has telematics capabilities, with digital connectivity set to play an increasingly key role in the future. Williamson will be spearheading her talk on how this will affect the automotive aftermarket and some of the challenges being faced by independent garages, motor factors and suppliers as the digital revolution strengthens its grip.

Williamson will look at the legislation required to ensure that the aftermarket can adapt and thrive against a changing digital landscape, as it continues to strongly argue that a level playing field must be provided to ensure consumer freedom of choice when repairing and maintaining vehicles.

Williamson will also examine other influencers on the sector as technology continues to drive changes to the wider topic of intelligent mobility. Changing lifestyle trends are also affecting the marketplace as motorists are demanding more flexible options such as rental and subscription services as opposed to outright vehicle ownership. And of course, with the current focus on reducing emissions the rise of electric vehicles and how that will impact on the aftermarket.

There will also be an update on IAAF activity including the progress of its prominent Your Car, Your Choice campaign, which recently launched its pilot project in Chesterfield.

Wendy Williamson, IAAF chief executive, said: “This year’s event will again provide us with an exciting opportunity to communicate how to tackle current and potential threats the aftermarket continues to face.

“The exponential development of data and connectivity is moving the aftermarket towards a new era, generating opportunities through technological advancements of tools and processes. During my address at Automechanika, my aim is to underline the importance for the aftermarket to seize the benefits of the so-called ‘digital revolution’ as well as beware of the challenges it poses, to ensure we are as prepared as possible to fully embrace it.”

IAAF will be exhibiting on stand S131 next to the entrance of Hall 19 at the three-day show, taking place at the NEC on 4-6 June.