News

CHANGE IS COMING

Whether we like it and whether we’re ready for it, our industry is on the verge of a permanent change

This change is being led by the switch to electric vehicles (EV). EVs are going to forever alter the way our businesses look, the equipment we need to operate, and the training our people need to do their jobs. According to a recent major analysis of the automotive aftermarket for light vehicles by McKinsey, EVs will make up between 18 and 26 percent of the global car parc by 2030. It’s easy to dismiss that figure, after all, we’re probably talking about less than a quarter of the market, and it’s a global figure. But it’s the indicators from the manufacturers that matter. They’re providing the pipeline of vehicles that will eventually emerge onto the aftermarket, and many of them are all-in on electric. There’s still plenty of opportunity for businesses to make money servicing the vehicles of the future. EVs will still need tyres, suspension systems and wiper blades, but the next generation of businesses will need less conventional drive train parts, and more expertise with HV and LV batteries. The services we charge for, what we charge and the way we charge might change, even though customer service costs are projected to stay the same. It might all still seem a long way off, but as business owners we need to have one eye on the horizon now, to make sure we make the right investments for the future. If you’re interested in how Capricorn can help you build a stronger, next generation business, visit www.capricorn.coop to arrange a visit from your local Capricorn representative. Yours cooperatively, David Fraser Group CEO, Capricorn Society Ltd For more on Capricorn Society membership, visit www.capricorn.coop David Fraser Group CEO, Capricorn Society Ltd

RAPID TUNE WINS TOP GONG

The business was recognised recently at the FCA Excellence in Franchising Awards

Automotive aftermarket repair franchise Rapid Tune has been awarded the Franchise Council of Australia’s Australian Established Franchisor of the Year award. Rapid Tune was honoured at the FCA Excellence in Franchising Awards, which celebrated some of the nation’s best and brightest in business. The automotive services company took out the prestigious top award over finalists Chicken Treat, CouriersPlease, Pirtek Fluid Systems and RAMS Home Loans. “We’re so rapt to have won the award,” Rapid Tune Chief Executive Officer, Mark Rippon, said while highlighting the brand’s growth and the “bravery and tenacity” of small business owners in Australia during COVID. “Their ability to adjust and adapt was absolutely incredible and it made me proud to be an Australian businessperson. “That goes for the whole team at Rapid Tune as well, who really put in a strong effort and pulled together.” “In one of the most difficult economic environments ever experienced by Australian business, the resilience, adaptability and determination that has been demonstrated by all Awards finalists and winners is truly outstanding,” Franchise Council of Australia Chief Executive Officer, Mary Aldred, said. “We congratulate them for their persistence and achievements during an extraordinarily challenging time and commend each and every hard-working franchisee and franchisor across Australia for their vital contributions to employment, the economy and communities across the nation.” To learn more about Rapid Tune, go to www.rapidtune.com.au For more about the Awards, go to www.franchise.org.au

SPECIAL EXPO ACCOMMODATION PRICING NOW AVAILABLE

The 2022 Australian Auto Aftermarket and Collison Repair Expo is now less than five months away

Now is the time to secure accommodation for the 7-9 April 2022 event. You can learn more about the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo at www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au and the Collision Repair Expo at www.collisionrepair.com.au Adding to the need to book your accommodation fast is the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix, which is currently scheduled to take place across the same weekend. This is an exciting development, because more visitors from the automotive trade will be drawn to Melbourne to attend these two great events in one weekend. Of course, the only challenge will be that accommodation options are sure to sell out quickly, and likely at inflated prices. Fortunately, the AAAA says it has made it easier for exhibitors and sponsors by negotiating extremely competitive pricing for a number of hotels. To take advantage of the offers and save time and effort looking into accommodation yourself, go to the ‘registration’ menu of the show websites for further details. For further accommodation enquiries, please contact michelle@aaaa.com.au