Continuity & Performance
Thank you for the confidence you have shown in me by re-electing me as President of AD International. “
Dear Colleagues ,
First of all, I would like to thank you for the confidence you have shown in me by re-electing me as President of AD International.
With Manuel Van Royen and his dynamic team, we will continue to work to strengthen the links between our members, develop stronger and more productive partnerships with our suppliers and thus contribute to the commercial and economic performance of all.
I'm also delighted to be able to rely on a stable Board and on a VicePresident, Christian Gabler, whose commitment over the years to our common cause is well known to all.
So, naturally, Christian was voted 'Aftermarket Professional of the Year' by a large majority of voters.
This stability and this newly-created role demonstrate our determination to prepare for the future with continuity.
We are convinced that this continuity is a guarantee of performance, both in our respective businesses and in our Group.
Our recent Summit in Sitges (well done to Team ADI!) illustrated this perfectly: AD International and its members enjoyed another year of strong growth in 2023 and new projects (acquisitions, investment in logistics tools and in commercial developments), preparing our future as well as possible, and so we have entered 2024 without arrogance, but with serenity and confidence
We were delighted and honoured by the presence of our colleagues from AD Ukraine: in addition to their
incredible and admirable resilience in the midst of turmoil, their presence showed their attachment to our collective. Thank you again Oleksiy!
The complicity and strong ties that bind us together, the fruit of many years of 'living and working well together', were palpable, as were the close and constructive relationships that we maintain with our supplier partners.
For the second time in a short space of time, we've recognised the work and performance of one of them, Febi, who has consistently built up an incredibly effective aftermarket approach over time: well done, Ulrich and team!
Continuity and performance are the hallmarks of our Spanish colleagues at AD Parts, who are celebrating their 35th anniversary of success with humility and serenity. Happy anniversary!
Sylvia Gotzen and the Figiefa team have been tirelessly defending the interests of the independent aftermarket with the European authorities over the long term: this pugnacity and consistency are bearing fruit, as we illustrate once again in this issue, and we will be reaffirming our commitment alongside Figiefa at the conference it is organising at the end of the year.
Finally, as a symbol of our performance and confidence in the future, we will be present at Automechanika with a stand designed to be the home of ADI members and their supplier partners.
We look forward to seeing many of you there.
Great Summer! Stéphane
ADI Summit 2024 SITGES
The bilstein group SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR
Figiefa SUSTAINABLE FUTURE IN THE AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET
Christian Gabler: AFTERMARKET PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR
BORGWARNER: OE COMPETENCE FOR THE AFTERMARKET
2024
SPAIN, SITGES - DAY 1
The 35th edition of the ADI Summit, hosted by Autodistribution International, brought together 220 participants at the stunning Finca Mas Solers in Sitges. The event began on Tuesday, April 23, at noon with a sunny welcome lunch, setting a vibrant tone for the summit. Attendees engaged in 450 half-hour sessions where trade and industry leaders discussed past and future business topics. On Tuesday evening, participants celebrated "Sant Jordi," a significant Catalan cultural day, marked by the tradition of offering roses and books.
2024
SPAIN, SITGES - DAY 2
On Wednesday, the business meetings persisted throughout the day, culminating in the President’s address and the recognition of the Supplier of the Year 2023 and the Aftermarket Professional of the Year.
Manuel Van Royen, ADI Managing Director emphasized AD International’s core values:
• EXCELLENCE: continuous striving for business improvement , o.a. through investments in logistics, warehouses and technology
• PERFORMANCE: ADI partners outperforming the market with a double digit growth for 2023 and a positive outlook for 2024.
• COMMITMENT: demonstrated both on commercial level (focus on premium brands) and sectoral level (through partnerships with Figiefa, FAAS and Talents 4AA).
In his address the ADI President, Stéphane Antiglio confirmed ADI’s commitment to premium suppliers and their brands, thereby referring to their responsibility in providing equal chances to all market players by means of a consistent and fair pricing policy.
Oleksiy Mitskevich , Marketing Director of AD Ukraine, made a live appearance after 2 years, reporting record-breaking performance despite challenging circumstances. Announcing an excellent start of the year Oleksiy also informed the go live of a brandnew warehouse of 30.000 m 2 , including 34 CV gates and 15 slots for LCV. Oleksiy’s words were met with a standing ovation by all the Summit participants.
Darren Lacroix , former World Champion Keynote Speaking, delivered an engaging and humorous presentation emphasizing the importance of wholehearted commitment.
The evening highlight was the announcement of the Aftermarket Professional of the Year, awarded to Christian Gabler, Managing Director for Carat-Gruppe and newly elected Vice-President of AD International, for personal contribution and achievement to the aftermarket and to AD International. The Supplier of the Year, was presented to Febi Bilstein Group for their exceptional performance with the ADI Partners during 2023 (represented by Ulrich Wiedemuth, Nicole Puschmann, Stijn Janssens and Juan Lanaja).
The ADI Summit 2024 concluded with a grand gala dinner, providing a fitting end to an enriching and productive event at Finca Mas Solers.
The bilstein group
SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR
ADI HONORED THE BILSTEIN GROUP FOR THE SECOND TIME FOR ITS OUTSTANDING COLLABORATION AS BEST SUPPLIER
On April 24, the bilstein group was awarded ‘Supplier of the Year 2023' by AD International (ADI). The award ceremony took place as part of the annual ADI Summit, which was held in Sitges, Spain, from 23 to 24 April.
The award recognizes the bilstein group's outstanding performance in supplying and supporting ADI partner companies. The evaluation focuses on a comprehensive range of automotive spare parts, the services and quality of the products as well as an excellent cooperation.
The bilstein group is very grateful for this recognition and would like to explicitly thank the business partners across the ADI community, as their challenges are driver of performance. In 2022, for the performance of 2021, this award was presented to the bilstein group for the first time in the history of the close collaboration with ADI and its partners. “Winning the award for the second time in a short timeframe, does not let us rest on our laurels, it only stimulates us to continue our commitment and keep on improving ourselves”, says Stijn Janssens, Sales Director BeNeLux.
The valuation is even very transparent as a scorecard is shared in regards to the points given on category level by the AD Partners. This information is distributed across the whole bilstein group organization to focus on stimulating business development.
For us, the ADI award is a confirmation of our team performance and at the same time motivation to always focus on customer satisfaction”, says Nicole Puschmann, Divisional Director Business Development of the bilstein group, summing up the award.
“The award with the name 'The Dreamer' is something very special. The artwork emphasizes the necessity of our dreams and the importance of awakening the imaginative spirit within us. It is a reminder that in the realm of our dreams, boundaries dissolve and creativity knows no limits... The theme fits perfectly with the bilstein group's approach of ‘Thinking about tomorrow’!”
As a supplier and manufacturer with nearly 80,000 replacement parts for passenger cars, light commercial and commercial vehicles, the bilstein group is a leading specialist in the Automotive Aftermarket.
Combining OE-matching quality standards with a strong customer focus, the bilstein group – consisting of the three brands febi (Car and Truck), SWAG, and Blue Print – meets customer needs worldwide with 22 international subsidiaries and sales partners in over 70 countries.
The bilstein group operates in an ever-changing market, with the dawn of the e-mobility revolution on the horizon. The family-owned company reacts flexible and agile to this new environment by partnering with the customers to further develop the mutual business and leave a footprint in the market, creating new opportunities along the way. Focusing on the current possibilities of the Automotive Aftermarket and on securing its future, electrification and the evolution of mobility are high on the agenda. Even though the Automotive Aftermarket will look different in the future and the form of mobility will change, there will still be a need for spare parts.
The bilstein group will continue to offer those parts to their customers as a reliable partner - fully committed to offer the Right Product for the Right Price at the Right Time for the Right Partner.
Looking to the future with an open and positive outlook comes naturally for the company. They have been operating in this way since 1844, true to the motto “Change is our Tradition”.
Even in the 180th year after its foundation, the company is closely connected with its headquarters in Ennepetal and, as a family business, is focused on continuous, long-term development. This was the only way the company could develop from a local hammer mill into the global spare parts specialist it is today.
In 180 years, there has never been a standstill. Because we are always thinking about tomorrow.
If you would like to experience the bilstein group's offers, ideas and perspectives live, visit us at this year's Automechanika Frankfurt in Hall 6.0 at Stand B06. We look forward to seeing you!
Sustainable future
IN THE AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET
FORUM ON AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET SUSTAINABILITY: BUILDING SYNERGIES TOWARDS A MORE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE IN THE AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET
The Forum on Automotive Aftermarket Sustainability (FAAS) is a new constituted international association that aims to establish itself as the platform where stakeholders can exchange ideas, set new trends and adopt sustainable practices. The goal is transforming the European automotive aftermarket sector into a fully accountable and proactive industry.
A BRIEF HISTORY AND OBJECTIVES
FAAS is a collaborative endeavour initiated by the leading European Associations - CLEPA (European Association of Automotive Suppliers) and FIGIEFA (European Association of Automotive Parts Distributors).
The official presentation of the FAAS initiative took place at the highly anticipated first-ever FAAS Sustainability Day (17 November 2023) held at the Futurmotive trade show in Bologna. Just the day before the event during the General Assembly meeting, Members of the FAAS demonstrated their dedication to the cause and commitment to driving positive change in the automotive aftermarket by
voting in favour of the creation of an international non-profit association dedicated to advancing sustainability in the automotive aftermarket sector.
Earlier this year, the FAAS elected its first board of directors for the next four years bringing top-level knowledge and expertise from across Europe:
• Frank Schlehuber (CLEPA - European Association of Automotive Suppliers)
• Laurence Eeckhout (FIGIEFA - Automotive Aftermarket Distributors)
• Thomas Fischer (AAMPACT e.V.)
• Peter Bartel (APRA Europe AISBL)
• Michael Boe (BorgWarner)
• Claudia Weyandt (Bosch)
• Jan Bambas (Schaeffler)
• Mathias Lintel-Höping (ZF Aftermarket)
• Warren Espinoza (ATR International AG)
• Guenter Weber (GROUPAUTO International)
• Richard Brasher (LKQ Corporation)
• Louise Wohrne (MEKO)
• Antoine Soulier (Inteliam)
• Daniel Grub (PARTSLIFE)
To achieve its sustainability objectives , the FAAS currently operates four (soon will be five) working groups comprising a wide range of relevant actors from the European automotive industry.
• Working Group 1 is dedicated to conducting a comprehensive study on the CO2 footprint of the automotive aftermarket sector, emphasizing the impact of maintaining a vehicle on the road versus replacing it.
• Working Group 2 addresses barriers to increase spare parts remanufacturing, promoting the circular economy.
• Working Group 3 is focused on developing a standardized Product Carbon Footprint methodology for all players.
• Working Group 4 seeks to optimize supply chain logistics and reduce environmental footprints of logistics and packaging through strategic partnerships.
• Working Group 5 on Sustainability Reporting and Communication will be activated soon.
FAAS SUSTAINABILITY DAY 2023 HIGHLIGHTS
The inaugural FAAS Sustainability Day featured five substantive sessions on the topics that are driving today’s agenda at all levels: from decarbonisation to new green products, from operations to value chain. Over 20 experts took the stage to share insights, experiences, and strategies for fostering sustainability within the automotive aftermarket.
The event garnered widespread acclaim, with attendees expressing their appreciation for the informative presentations and the valuable opportunities for networking and informal discussions.
With over 100 participants coming from all over the world FAAS Sustainability Day 2023 was deemed a resounding success, building the new association's position as a key player in driving sustainability initiatives within the automotive aftermarket.
2024 Edition: FAAS is getting ready for the second edition of the Sustainability, which will take place on
Tuesday 26 and Wednesday 27 November 2024 at Life City in Stockholm, and which is already open for registrations: www.faasforum.eu/2024-sustainability-day/
FAAS OPENS ITS DOORS TO NEW MEMBERS THE CURRENT FOCUS: GIVING VOICE TO FAMILY BUSINESSES AND SMES
In the coming period, the FAAS Secretariat will be committed to actively expanding its membership base, reaching out to potential new members who share the association's mission to co-create the sustainable automotive aftermarket sector.
"By being part of the FAAS, you have the opportunity to collectively work towards a robust and sustainable vision for the future of the aftermarket industry. Together, we will lead the sector towards the forefront of sustainable practices and set new trends," said Laurence Eeckhout, FAAS coordinator on behalf of FIGIEFA.
"Our priority is to expand the outreach of the FAAS, get more participants involved, continue the good work that has been done by the four working groups and continue to deliver concrete results." adds Umberto Fassero Gamba member of the FAAS Secretariat on behalf of CLEPA.
The organization believes in the power of collaboration, emphasizing the importance of members working together to co-create a sustainable vision for the industry's future. Therefore, FAAS is particularly open to attracting new members representing family businesses and SMEs.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FAAS AND ITS ACTIVITIES, PLEASE VISIT WWW.FAASFORUM.EU/
Aftermarket
PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR
CHRISTIAN GABLER ABOUT HIS AWARD AS "AFTERMARKET
PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR" AND THE FUTURE OF THE AFTERMARKET
During this year's ADI Summit, Christian Gabler received the award as Aftermarket Professional of the Year 2023:
"I accepted ADI's award with great joy and deep gratitude. This honor is not only a recognition of my personal efforts but also a testament to the outstanding work and dedication of our entire team. It inspires me to continue creating innovative solutions for our customers and to continuously improve and elevate the aftermarket sector to new heights."
With over ten successful years at CARAT, Managing Director Christian Gabler not only brings deep internal know-how but also possesses extensive industry knowledge and a wide-ranging network. Since 2011, he has been a driving force at CARAT as Head of Purchasing before becoming Authorized Signatory and Head of Category Management and Marketing in 2018. Since 2021, he has been serving as the Managing Director of the CARAT Group. He has also made his mark outside the group. As Managing Director of Mecanto GmbH, a successful subsidiary of the CARAT Group, he created DRIVEMOTIVE, a groundbreaking online platform for vehicle service and mobility services in the independent aftermarket, which is already successfully connecting customers and workshops today. Before his career at CARAT, he worked at Bridgestone and Arthur Andersen.
Looking ahead to the future of the aftermarket, Gabler is excited about the challenges posed by the declining number of workshops and increasing repair costs. CARAT is committed to providing robust support to ensure their partner workshops remain viable and competitive.
In the future, CARAT will focus even more on comprehensive support for their workshop partners in the areas of data, digitalization, and repair solutions. The further development of workshop concepts will also play an important role.
CARAT is already aware of the changes taking place in workshops and those yet to come, as are their partners. Together with their affiliated shareholders, they are preparing workshops for the changes in the industry and also supporting their suppliers in providing the most relevant information for the future as quickly and efficiently as possible.
BorgWarner: OE COMPETENCE FOR
THE AFTERMARKET
BorgWarner is a leading provider of propulsion systems for internal combustion, hybrid, and electric vehicles, recognized for its excellence in both original equipment (OE) and aftermarket segments. As the company expands in the OE market, it simultaneously grows its aftermarket product range, delivering high-quality solutions for various vehicle types.
TURBOCHARGERS
BorgWarner offers advanced turbocharging technologies, including wastegate, VTG, and multi-stage systems. These turbochargers enhance vehicle performance, reduce emissions, and improve fuel economy across all vehicle types.
EGR VALVES AND COOLERS
The company’s EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) modules, valves, and coolers are designed to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. These components optimize the combustion process, contributing to environmental sustainability with customized solutions.
IGNITION COILS
BorgWarner provides over 450 types of ignition coils that improve fuel efficiency and emissions control. These ignition technologies ensure reliable starts and optimal combustion for both gasoline and diesel engines.
GLOW PLUGS
As a leading manufacturer of glow plugs, BorgWarner offers various models, including PSG, CGP, ISS, and standard types. These glow plugs ensure smooth engine starts in cold conditions, making them essential for diesel engines.
ENGINE TIMING SYSTEMS
BorgWarner’s timing chains are known for their durability, fuel economy, and wear performance. These systems maintain ideal chain tension and VCT (Variable Cam Timing) performance, promoting smoother engine operation, reduced fuel consumption, and extended engine life.
THERMAL MANAGEMENT
The company’s thermal management solutions, including High Voltage Coolant Heaters, cooling fans, fan clutches, and thermostats, enhance vehicle efficiency, comfort, and safety by ensuring precise temperature control.
DUAL CLUTCH SYSTEMS
BorgWarner’s DualTronic clutch system, the first high-volume production dual clutch module, combines the fuel efficiency of a single clutch with the smooth gear shifts of automatic transmissions.
DRIVETRAIN TECHNOLOGIES
BorgWarner’s coupling automation controls provide excellent traction and driving performance. Their AWD coupling products ensure optimal vehicle service, emphasizing adherence to manufacturer service intervals and the use of approved parts and oil for long-term reliability.
REMAN PRODUCTS
BorgWarner’s REMAN program offers remanufactured components that are cost-effective and sustainable. These products undergo thorough dismantling, cleaning, reprocessing, and testing to ensure OE quality and reliability, contributing to environmental sustainability by reducing waste.
BorgWarner is committed to shaping the future by collaborating with automotive manufacturers to develop and produce drive solutions for electric vehicles, soon to be available in the aftermarket.
CSRD CORPORATE SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING DIRECTIVE
WHAT IS IT ?
The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) is a new rule by the European Union to improve and make uniform the way companies report their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) activities. It aims to make companies more open and responsible about their impact on sustainability. The CSRD requires big companies and some smaller ones to share detailed and consistent ESG information, making it easier for investors, stakeholders, and the public to compare and evaluate them. This rule builds on an earlier one, the Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD), by including more companies and requiring more in-depth information. It also requires independent checks of the reported information and aligns with the EU's climate and sustainability goals. The CSRD is part of the EU's effort to encourage sustainable finance and responsible business behavior.
WHAT IS THE TIMING AND WHO IS CONCERNED ?
All companies already covered by NFRD (around 11,700) which meet at least 2/3 criteria:
• More than 500 employees
• €50M or more Turnover
• €25M or more of Assets
HOW TO GET CERTIFIED ?
Other large European (listed and non listed) and non-European (listed EU) companies, which meet at least 2/3 criteria:
• More than 250 employees
• €50M or more Turnover
• €25M or more of Assets
Listed SMEs and SMEs of public-interest that meet at least 2/3 criteria (excluding micro-companies):
• Less than 50 employees
• Less than €50M Turnover
• Less than €25M Assets
The following organizations are entitled to certify your company:
• Big Accounting Firms: Large firms like Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG can check and approve the reports because they have the expertise to do so.
• Certification Companies: Specialized companies like Bureau Veritas, SGS, DNV GL, and TÜV Rheinland can also provide the certification.
• Sustainability Experts: Some consultancies focus on sustainability and can either certify the reports themselves or work with other certified bodies to do it.
• National Bodies: Each EU country has its own official bodies that oversee certifications, ensuring they meet the right standards.
WHO CAN HELP TO GET READY FOR THE CERTIFICATION ?
Inteliam is a rating company dedicated to the Automotive Aftermarket. As an independent and international entity, Inteliam has already assessed more than 130 distribution companies within the aftermarket industry. Inteliam was created in 2020 with the support of leading industry stakeholders,suppliers and distributors, willing to have a positive impact for the industry.
For more information: h.hamidouch@inteliam.eu or visit: inteliam.eu
Other large non-European companies (a subsidiary or branch based in the European Union) with:
• More than €150M turnover
ABOUT US
AISIN Head Office Kariya, Aichi, JAPAN As one of the leading major manufacturers of original equipment automotive parts, AISIN has over 119,000 employees in 208 associated global subsidiaries and is the world’s 7th largest supplier of OEM automotive parts. Based on the philosophy of “Inspiring ‘movement’, creating tomorrow”*, the Aisin Group offers a wide range of products covering almost all of the areas related to the automotive industry, including the gearbox, bodywork, brakes and chassis, engine and products related to information.
Aisin products are engineered to integrate various automotive systems, providing 100% match for specific vehicle and applications
The use of high-quality materials in manufacturing contributes to the reliability and longevity of AISIN components
AISIN parts are designed to deliver optimal performance, meeting or exceeding industry standards
The emphasis on durability ensures that AISIN parts have a longer lifespan
The largest aftermarket range OF COOLING PARTS FOR ELECTRIC AND HYBRID VEHICLES
NRF has a strong focus on e-Mobility, as the aftermarket for electric vehicles is also growing substantially. The entire range for these consists of more than 1.000 parts and is continuously growing.
COOLING SYSTEMS FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES
Cooling systems in electric vehicles (EVs) are essential for maintaining the optimal performance of batteries and power electronics. These systems need to keep components within specific temperature ranges, ensuring safe and efficient operation. The cooling system in EVs mirrors that of traditional vehicles, featuring a radiator and an electric pump that circulates coolant, maintaining the powertrain's temperature regardless of environmental conditions.
HVAC SYSTEMS IN ELECTRIC VEHICLES
Electric vehicles, like their internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts, require HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning) systems for passenger comfort. In ICE vehicles, HVAC power comes from an engine-mounted compressor, while in EVs, an electric motor or compressor provides this power. Proper maintenance of HVAC systems is crucial in EVs to prevent increased power consumption and reduced range. NRF offers comprehensive support to ensure these systems function optimally.
EXPANDING AFTERMARKET RANGE
NRF is continuously adding new parts to its extensive range of cooling solutions for electric and
hybrid vehicles. Some notable parts include the Tesla Model 3 condenser (NRF no. 350517) and the Tesla Model Y cooling fan (NRF no. 470078). The complete range of available parts can be found on the NRF webshop.
TRAINING FOR EV MECHANICS
To support the growing number of electric vehicles, NRF provides extensive training for mechanics. Their team of technical specialists conducts over 1,000 training sessions annually across Europe. These sessions, available both on-site and online, cover essential topics such as safety regulations, battery disconnection procedures, and HVAC maintenance, equipping mechanics with the necessary skills to handle EV-specific issues.
NRF'S E-MOBILITY HEADQUARTERS
Highlighting its commitment to e-Mobility, NRF has established an e-Mobility head office at the Automotive Campus in Helmond, the Netherlands. This facility enhances NRF's ability to develop its product range and supports its forward-looking strategy. The Automotive Campus provides access to advanced training and EV testing facilities, further solidifying NRF's position in the e-Mobility market.
A selection of NRF aftermarket parts for electric cars
AD parts: 35TH ANNIVERSARY
AD Parts celebrated its 35th anniversary on 18 May, reaffirming its mission established in 1989 to become the largest sales force in the distribution of mechanical spare parts, bodywork, tyres, paint, lubricants, chemicals and workshop equipment for automotive repair workshops. This journey has been made possible thanks to the unconditional trust of its partners in the initiative to provide training for workshop professionals since 2003 at the AD Eina Digital technical centre with more than 150 professionals.
Josep Bosch y Sayols, founder and president of AD Parts, has dedicated his life not only to the spare parts sector, but also to improving and offering solutions to the aftermarket and repair shops. In 1989, when AD Parts joined ADI, the company had 15 partners and 42 sales outlets in the territory. Since then, under his leadership, the group has grown significantly, supporting from its headquarters a network of 27 partners in Iberia, with a team of 6,211 professionals in more than 570 points of sale and closing 2023 with a turnover of 1,125m euros.
Throughout these years, AD Parts has grown and evolved, always with the aim of offering everything
necessary to its customers. The trust placed in the company and the constant collaboration of suppliers, partners and workshops have been fundamental to achieve all that has been achieved. This anniversary is the occasion to value the results of the dedication and shared effort that have led the company and its partners to become leaders in the distribution of spare parts.
AD Parts' commitment to innovation and excellence remains unwavering. The company will continue on this path, bringing solutions to new technologies that benefit the entire aftermarket chain. Continuous training and technical support will remain the cornerstones of its mission for the benefit of workshops.
On this occasion the company would like to express its sincere thanks to all those who have been part of this journey. Your trust and support motivate us to keep moving forward, overcoming challenges and reaching new goals. This anniversary not only celebrates the past, but also looks forward to a future full of opportunities and achievements that we want to share with you.
ADI‘s 'EureTechDay',
HELD ON 21 & 22 JUNE 2024 AT THE HEADQUARTERS OF GRUP EINA IN FIGUERES, MARKED ITS FIRST EDITION WITH GREAT SUCCESS.
Attended by nearly 50 professional technical trainers and managers from ADI’s Contract Suppliers and ADI Partners, the event presented a unique opportunity to discover the comprehensive services and tools offered within the Eure!Car program and explore potential cooperation opportunities between participating companies.
From their own training facilities, the GE Team introduced various topics such as “training methodologies”, “new automotive technologies”, and “war for talent”, which then lead to animated discussions and interesting exchanges in the audience. In the evening Patrick Ruthhardt (Roland Berger) delivered insightful views on Artificial Intelligence and its impact on the aftermarket.
Ronan McDonagh (Figiefa) highlighted legal aspects with focus on the challenge of “parts coding”, offering valuable perspectives and strategies to navigate these complexities.
In sum, ADI’s first ever EureTechDay has achieved more than one objective : to showcase cutting-edge advancements in automotive technology, to lay the foundations of a “community of automotive technicians across industry and trade” and to enhance cooperation between ADI Partners and their preferred ADI Contract Suppliers.
The AD Auto Total
BUSINESS SHOW 2024 - BUCHAREST
ROMANIA'S AUTO TOTAL BUSINESS SHOW 2024: A SPECTACULAR CONVERGENCE OF ACTION AND AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY
Drifting, one of the most spectacular car disciplines, was the center of attention at ATBS 2024. RoDrift champions, experienced pilots such as Alexandru George Grecu, the father-son couple Gabi Imre Jr. and Gabi Imre Sr., Mădălin Marian Grigore, Vlad Weiner, Răzvan George Stan and Alexis Stan (9 years old), also father and son, demonstrated their skills in nervous controlled skidding. Amazing new cars were on display, including the latest releases from Lexus, Toyota, Honda, Skoda, Cupra, Ford, Hyundai and Mazda, next to supercars such as Lamborghini Huracán STO, Mclaren and Aston Martin DB12. Visitors had the opportunity to experience extreme conditions in a controlled and safe environment, thanks to impact, rollover and controlled skid simulators that help drivers improve their driving skills on slippery surfaces.
All about green tech
In the Central Pavilion, over 120 exhibitors, the largest and most influential manufacturers in the automotive field, exhibited a wide array of original and aftermarket car parts and accessories, providing the 40 000 attendees with an
unparalleled opportunity to explore a diverse range of products and innovations that are essential for modern automotive maintenance and enhancement. This convergence of industry experts and enthusiasts underscores the pivotal role AD Auto Total plays in driving innovation and excellence in the automotive sector.
The Central Pavilion served as a hub for unveiling new technologies aimed at fostering a cleaner and more sustainable environment. Among the cutting-edge technologies presented were revolutionary particle counters, designed to monitor and control particulate emissions, ensuring cleaner air quality. Furthermore, ecological windshield wipers took center stage, showcasing their innovative design aimed at reducing CO2 emissions by an impressive 61%. These wipers feature blades manufactured from natural, renewable, or recycled materials, including cane sugar, vegetable oils, and carbon black derived from recycled tires, highlighting the industry's commitment to sustainability. Additionally, the pavilion featured more environmentally friendly motor oils, formulated to
From 8 to 9 June, at Romexpo, over 40,000 automotive professionals attended a spectacular edition of the AD Auto Total in Bucharest. There were 2 days full of adrenaline and entertainment for car lovers: super-drift, the latest auto launches, sports and action for all tastes, plus top automotive technology.
minimize environmental impact while maintaining high performance standards. Visitors at ATBS 2024 had the unique opportunity to witness firsthand these top technological innovations and participate in technical demonstrations, gaining valuable insights into the future of automotive technology.
Mihai Staicu, AD Auto Total:
“This year, AD Auto Total celebrates 30 years in business. We are a 100% Romanian story: the first 30 years were fabulous, wait til you see the next 30! ATBS 2024 wasn't just about thrills and excitement. It also drew top clients and partners, automotive professionals from across the industry, all eager to see firsthand the remarkable advancements and contributions AD Auto Total has made to the automotive landscape in Romania. We are proud of our evolution and the contribution we have made to the industry. We continue to invest in innovation and support performance in all aspects of our business. We remain dedicated to bringing the best products and services to our customers and being a trusted partner to everyone involved in the auto repair business.”
SOLUTIONS DRIVEN BY YOU
SOLUTIONS
defines the febi brand and represents our commitment to customers, who continue to be at the centre of all our activities. Whether they distribute, install or even experience our various solutions on the road, customers are at the heart of everything febi does.
DRIVEN
We are driven in everything we do. We are driven by our customers, the needs of workshops and drivers worldwide, and by our employees. We are driven to provide OE-matching quality parts developed for your needs - in the past, today, and in the future.
BY YOU
This is a statement of intent, and emphasises the importance of you - everyone distributing, installing and driving with febi parts all over the world.
Automechanika ISTANBUL 2024
AD EKOL PROMINENTLY PRESENT AT AUTOMECHANIKA ISTANBUL
Mr. Fatih Odabaşılar (shareholder of Altay Otomotiv), Manuel Van Royen (ADI) and Mr. Hakan Ataoguz (AD Ekol)
The Aftermarket in Turkiye:
- Total vehicles in operation during 2023: 28.740.492
Automechanika Istanbul 2024 has taken place from May 23 to 26 at the Istanbul TÜYAP Fair and Congress Center. As in previous editions, the event was a significant trade platform for the automotive aftermarket industry, attracting thousands of professionals globally. It focused on various sectors within the automotive industry, including parts and systems, accessories, repair and maintenance, and car wash solutions.
The event featured approximately 1,500 exhibitors from about 50 countries, showcasing the latest trends and innovations, particularly in areas like sustainability and artificial intelligence in automotive technology. The Turkish counterpart of the Frankfurter Automechanika drew over 60,000 visitors, which clearly highlighted its importance in the global automotive industry.
At the fair, AD Ekol, ADI Partner in Turkiye, was prominently represented by 4 of its members : - Oto İsmail Otomotiv Sanayi ve Tic. Ltd.
- Altay Taşıt ve Otomotiv A.S.
- Ardıç Otomotiv A.S. (specialised in heavy duty vehicles)
- Neko Otomotiv A.S.
Manuel Van Royen, Managing Director of ADI, accompanied by ADI Board member Juan Carlos Martín (AD Parts) enjoyed the hospitality of the AD Ekol members on their booths and seized the occasion to visit the central warehouse of AD Ekol member Özaş Otomotiv.
- Composition of the vehicle park: 53 % Passenger Cars, 15.6% pick up/van, 17,7% motorcycle, 7,6% tractors, 3,3% trucks, 1,7% minibuses, 0,7% buses,
- Average age: 14 years
- Light vehicle sales 2023: 1.2 M units sold (+ 57% compared to the previous year).
- Used car sales: +8.4 % (51 % of used cars is older than 10 years)
- Expectations for 2024: used car sales is expected to increase, new car sales expected to drop after all-time high of 1.2 M in 2023.
AD Ekol in figures
15 wholesale distributors
60 warehouses in different regions of the country
Consolidated sales TO about 500 million Euros in 2023 2000+ employees
From left to right: Ms. Kübra Özbay, Mr. Hakan Ataoguz (AD Ekol), Juan Carlos Martín (AD Parts), Mr. Ismail Şagbankalem (owner of Oto Ismail Otomotiv), Manuel Van Royen (ADI)
From left to right: Mr. Bircan Öz (AD Ekol Chairman), Mr. Manuel Van Royen (ADI), Mr. Ercan Öz, Mr. Hakan Ataoguz (AD Ekol General Manager)
AD Ekol network in Türkiye, 15 members and more than 60 warehouses all over the country
AD Ekol member Oto Ismail Otomotiv at the Automechanika fair
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