The training importance in an highly competitive market

The 2022 edition of Autopromotec hosted the third edition of "Associations in motion", the periodic global conference between the various world sector associations. This format has been conceived by AICA (Italy) and Auto Care (USA) associations in November of 2019, in Las Vegas, following a global industry conference. The meeting held in Bologna allowed associations to identify common issues to focus on, in order to find an uniform way to support and relaunch the independent aftermarket globally. We interviewed the speakers who participated in the initiative in order to share with Autopromotec Blog readers their expert point of view.
 

How was your Autopromotec experience?
"This was my first visit to Autopromotec and having visited most of the other major aftermarket tradeshows around the world I was extremely impressed with the size of the show, the quality of the exhibitor stands, the education program and the number of trade visitors.  In my view Autopromotec was particularly strong in garage and collision repair equipment and it was great to see the very well attended demonstrations happening on exhibitor stands throughout the show. I would rank Autopromotec in the top 5 aftermarket shows globally and I congratulate the organisers on delivering a fantastic event this year".
 
How did you find the industry doing at Autopromotec after 3 years of covid-related restrictions?
"Given the covid imposed hiatis I wasn’t sure how the industry would respond to the first major automotive aftermarket show to be run in Europe in 3 years however I must say that I was pleasantly suprised with the number of visitors which kept growing and growing  over the course of the show.  It is clear to me that despite the significant challenges our industry has faced over recent years, demand has held up remarkably well and business owners and managers were very keen to learn how they need to adjust their businesses to adapt to the rapidly changing technology in our industry".  
 
Amongst the many topics discussed at the IAM, what are the main activities you’re currently involved in as a trade association?
"We have 3 main issues on our agenda at present: operationalizing the new mandatory data sharing law which came into effect on 1 July this year which requires all vehicle manufacturers to provide dealer level service and repair information to all repairers on fair and reasonable commercial terms; addressing skills shortages and skills gaps in our industry.  We need to become the industry of choice for high calibre school leavers and we need to upskill current technicians so they can work on the technically complex vehicles of today and tomorrow; nsuring our industry is ready for the rapid increase in electric and low emission vehicles on our roads which will require additional training, tools and equipment".   
 
What is the impact on the market of the current geo-political situation?
"The major impact from the current geo-political situation from an Australian perspective is on our supply chains. The shortages of raw materials and finished goods is putting upward pressure on prices and challenging our suppliers who need strong inventory levels to satisfy demand".

Did you miss the event at Autopromotec 2022? You can rewatch it on Autopromotec Youtube channel: