Continuity & Performance
Dear Colleagues, dear Partners,
It was a particular pleasure for me and the AD France/PHE team to see you all gathered in Paris during the last days of April for our 2025 Summit.
The beautiful weather was the perfect backdrop for this extraordinary event, which was so well prepared and organised by the ADI team, whom I would like to warmly congratulate: Well done and thank you to everyone for your good choices, your attention to detail and your personal commitment, which made these three days such a success.
I even heard that the comparison with our competitors, who had also chosen Paris as the venue for their annual meeting, was particularly flattering ��
More seriously, this success is also and above all due to the bonds that unite us within our ADI community and the cooperation we enjoy with our suppliers.
Thank you to the latter for mobilising, often at the highest level of their Aftermarket organisations, for carefully preparing the meetings and for contributing to the excellent atmosphere of this Summit.
A serious approach without taking ourselves too seriously, humility, hard work, commitment and good humour: these are excellent values that we all share.
Congratulations to all those who received awards: Bosch for its long-term, in-depth work on all topics, winning the ADI Summit Award; Phinia (Delphi), acclaimed for its strong growth momentum; and finally Nissens for the quality of its services and support.
As for the individuals, Roberto Caravati (Brembo) has been recognised for his incredible energy and passion as ‘Industry Driver’ of the year, and a nod
was given to our ‘ADI Hero’ Patrick Wiglinghaus, and because value does not depend on the number of years, Dominik Leko is our ‘Trade Driver’, praised for his dynamism, the development of his company and his personal impact.
In this issue, you will find pictures of all these good moments, and I would like to remind you of two fundamental points I mentioned in my speech:
‘Execution eats uncertainty for breakfast’: in these unpredictable times, let's focus on serving our customers and on our fundamentals.
We build our business for the long term, on solid foundations; we do not have a ‘cuckoo’ strategy, and we do not approve of those who apply or encourage it.
The outstanding success of the Broman family (see the article on the 60th anniversary of their Group) perfectly illustrates the two points above. Congratulations to Harri, his family and his teams, and above all, every success in all your projects!
Finally, the future of the automotive industry continues to be played out in Brussels, where politicians and bureaucrats are seeking to repair the mistakes that led to the decline of our automotive industry: this is a particularly risky period because the desire to protect and save our manufacturers at all costs – a goal we can only hope for – could lead to measures that are highly detrimental to the independent aftermarket.
Now more than ever, we must rally around Figiefa and stand together with our suppliers!
I wish you all an excellent summer.
Best regards Stéphane Antiglio
ADI Summit 2025 PARIS
Bosch WINS SUMMIT AWARD 2024
08
Nissens WINS SERVICE LEADERSHIP AWARD 2024
Broman Group
60 YEARS OF GROWTH AS A FINNISH FAMILY BUSINESS EXPANDS INTERNATIONALLY
Delphi STRENGRHENING THE FUTURE TOGETHER
FIGIEFA AND THE FUTURE OF THE INDEPENDENT AFTERMARKET
Shows AD PRESENT AT NATIONAL SHOWS
TOP AUTOMOTIVE LEADERS GATHER IN PARIS FOR 37TH ADI SUMMIT
From April 28 to 30, Autodistribution International (ADI) held its 37th annual Summit in the heart of Paris at the charming Pavillons de Bercy. Around 260 automotive professionals came together to catch up, exchange ideas, and look ahead to what’s next for the aftermarket.
The event kicked off with a packed schedule of 650 one-onone meetings spread over two and a half days—an ideal setup for discussing today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities. Monday evening added some magic, as guests stepped into the whimsical Musée des Arts Forains for the President’s Address and the ADI Awards. This year’s winners were:
• ADI Summit Award – Bosch
• Service Leadership Award – Nissens
• Growth Leadership Award – Delphi / Phinia
• Industry Driver Award – Roberto Caravati (Brembo)
• Trade Driver Award – Dominik Leko (AD Adria)
During his speech the ADI President Stéphane Antiglio underlined ADI’s commitment to strong partnerships and fair business practices—especially important in today’s unpredictable market. A lively dinner followed, complete with French chansons to match the setting.
Tuesday brought workshops containing topics ranged from global politics and the circular economy to the future of connected cars and artificial intelligence.
Later ADI’s Managing Director Manuel Van Royen, hosted the “ADI Journey”—a video session during which he commented a compilation of video statements by ADI Partners and suppliers, looking back at ADI’s 55-year history and the road ahead. The day ended in style with a dinner cruise along the Seine, Paris glittering in the background.
The Summit wrapped up on Wednesday with a final round of meetings and a laid-back garden lunch. All in all, the 2025 ADI Summit combined strategy, fresh ideas, and great conversations—showing once again that strong partnerships keep the automotive aftermarket moving forward.
Paris
BOSCH WINS SUMMIT AWARD 2024
With great joy and gratitude, we received the Summit Award 2024 from ADI. This recognition is not only a proof of our continuous efforts towards the highest quality and customer service but also an expression of the strong partnership we maintain with ADI. This award comes with great honor, motivating us to further raise our standards and set new benchmarks in the industry. We are proud that our efforts to exceed our customers' expectations are being recognized.
In recent years, we have consistently developed our Mobility Aftermarket strategy. This strategy aims to offer our customers in the aftermarket sector innovative and tailored solutions that meet the dynamic demands of the market. In a time when the mobility landscape is changing rapidly, it is crucial that we not only deliver products but also provide comprehensive services that help our customers enhance their efficiency and optimize their operations.
Enrico Manuele, Executive Vice President Sales, emphasizes:
“This award is not only a success for our company but also a testament to the excellent collaboration with the ADI family. Our global sales team is ready to further expand the business and seize new opportunities. Together, we are shaping the future of the Mobility Aftermarket and setting new standards in the industry. Let's move like a Bosch and drive innovation forward!”
We are proud to be part of a network that promotes innovation and quality. The ADI Summit Award motivates us to remain at the forefront of the industry and to continue advancing our Mobility Aftermarket strategy.
We are confident that together with ADI, we can set new benchmarks in the future.
Award
The undersigned acknowledge that Robert Bosch GmbH has demonstrated the highest level of overall excellence and contribution to Autodistribution International and its Partners during the year 2024.
From left to right: Manuel Van Royen – Dominik Kirchner – Jan Hollmann –Enrico Manuele – Stéphane Antiglio – Mahmoud Sabry – Peter Lukassen
From wiping to braking to lighting, our automotive technologies are designed to keep vehicles running.
Bosch. The automotive influencers
Rewarding Excellence AND EXPLORING NISSENS TURBO OFFERINGS
A HEARTFELT THANK YOU, ADI PARTNERS!
We are honored to have been awarded the ADI Service Leadership Award! The award reflects the dedication of our entire team to customer-centric solutions, ensuring that you receive excellent products and business growth support through superior services.
At Nissens, we understand what’s critical for distributors navigating today’s competitive aftermarket landscape. Supreme product availability, data accuracy, and technical expertise are areas of our focus when working with the leading spare parts distributors. Your recognition reinforces our mission: to be more than a supplier –to be your strategic partner driving your success in the independent aftermarket. Thank you!
BOOST YOUR BUSINESS WITH NISSENS TURBO
Turbochargers are advanced components that require precision engineering, durability, and seamless integration with engine management systems. Nissens Turbo stands out as a premium aftermarket solution. It offers competitive advantages compared both to pricy original parts or aftermarket parts of uncertain quality. So, what’s Nissens Turbo in short?
COMPETITIVE RANGE
400+ part numbers covering 3,800+ OE references, including 90+ truck turbo models. +60% EU car parc coverage, continuously expanding to meet evolving market demands.
Electrically actuated turbos for Euro 5/6 engines, with 40+ models featuring OE-manufactured actuators (e.g., HELLA-sourced units).
SUPREME HANDLING EASE & PRODUCT AVAILABILITY
Unlike remanufactured or other aftermarket alternatives, Nissens Turbo delivers factory-new units, eliminating reverse logistics, core charges, and hidden fees. Each turbo includes gaskets, a syringe for prime oil, and stretch bolts when needed (First Fit principle), reducing workshop downtime and ensuring a hasslefree installation.
GENUINE NISSENS QUALITY
Nissens Turbo is a reliable, long-life solution that matches the engine’s lifespan. In the advanced manufacturing processes, we ensure special design focus on critical components, solely high-grade materials are used while the mechanical parts characterize precise calibration and tight tolerances.
Every Nissens Turbo undergoes rigorous testing, both in-house and by independent institutes, to validate durability and performance under extreme conditions, emissions compliance (aligned with EC regulations), fuel efficiency, and engine output matching OE specifications.
TRUST THE EXPERTS
Beyond standalone turbos, Nissens provides a holistic approach and range of key system parts for the engine efficiency system, including: Intercoolers, EGR valves, EGR modules, EGR coolers, and turbo oil feed pipes to secure safe, first-time-right installation of the turbo.
To elevate the turbo confidence among workshops, we empower them through our technical expertise. Our turbo support tools are designed to build confidence, ensuring technicians can install and service turbos with first-time-right precision.
Our support covers:
• Clear installation guides & QR-linked videos
• Best practice sharing and product training (live and digital)
• Claim intelligence & troubleshooting support
Dear ADI Partners, while the ADI Service Leadership Award is a milestone for us, our journey doesn’t stop here. With Nissens Turbo, you can gain a high-margin, highdemand product backed by proven quality, unmatched availability, and unrivaled support!
Roberto Caravati HONORED AS INDUSTRY DRIVER 2025
We are truly honored to receive the Industry Driver Award from Autodistribution International. It is a privilege to be acknowledged by such a respected organization that plays a vital role in supporting and promoting excellence across our industry. This recognition strengthens our commitment to deliver quality, innovation, and lasting value in everything we do. It is also a moment to thank our team, partners, and the whole Aftermarket community who contribute every day to our shared success.
Brembo leads the world in the design and production of high-performance braking systems and components for top-flight manufacturers of cars, motorbikes and commercial vehicles. Founded in 1961 in Italy, Brembo has a long-standing reputation for providing innovative solutions for Original Equipment and Independent AfterMarket. Brembo also competes in the most challenging motorsport championships in the world and has won over 700 titles.
Guided by its strategic vision – “Turning Energy into Inspiration” – Brembo’s ambition is to help shape the future of mobility through cuttingedge, digital and sustainable solutions.
Specifically related to the Independent Aftermarket, the last few years have been very successful for Brembo thanks to a mix of macro trends that have been converging positively with Brembo Aftermarket strategy; all the geo-political situations across the globe, the fact that the car parc is growing and aging and people are running more kms is putting wind towards the overall IAM growth.
On top of that, there is a clear visible trend of the “polarization of the market” either towards Private Labels or Top Premium Brands that is driving the key market players in the Distribution value chain to rationalize their brands offering portfolio. Moreover, there is Brembo’s ability to be a solution provider with a complete range of brake related products (including Upgrade ones) that covers all needs of Passenger Cars, Light Commercial Vehicles, Heavy Duties now also for 2 Wheelers.
The Modern Choice for European Vehicle Repair
SWAG delivers high-quality OE-matching parts that keep European vehicles performing at their best. Whether your customers are diagnosing tricky issues, tackling complex repairs, or simply getting cars back on the road, SWAG equips both professionals and car enthusiasts with trustworthy solutions that meet the highest repair standards.
Your Benefits
Quality – OE – matching and tested quality is the driving force behind our cutting-edge, simplified range
Wide Coverage – 25,000 replacement parts, perfectly structured in five streamlined product groups, offering endless repair possibilities
Tech-Mastery – Engineered by experts for professionals and the tech-savvy
YOUR WAY. YOUR CHOICE.
Show Your SWAG with:
Steering, Suspension & NVH
Engine Timing, Electrics & Sensors
Braking, Wheel Bearings, Hubs & Fastenings
Lubrication & Cooling
SWAG EXTRA
AD Adria:
EIGHT YEARS OF BUILDING TOGETHER AND WE’RE JUST GETTING STARTED
At AD Adria, we are proud to be a part of AD International – sharing its values, developing its business models, and expanding them across the West Balkan/ Adria region for the past eight years.
This journey would not have been possible without our valued partners. Your recognition and support give wind to the sails of our 3,400 colleagues across 230 branches in CIAK Grupa / AD Adria companies. This is more than growth – it’s confirmation that we are on the right track in the ongoing story of IAM consolidation in the region.
The IAM industry is changing rapidly. The challenges of 2025 are vastly different from those we faced in 2014 when we began our spare parts journey in Croatia. And yet, the core principle remains unchanged: strong partnerships – between suppliers and distributors, and between distributors and mechanics.
This is the beauty of IAM. We need each other.
Without you – the suppliers – the story of CIAK Grupa / AD Adria would have been a short one. And perhaps without us, your reach in the Adria markets would be more difficult.
We believe there’s a clear difference between AD International and other ITGs. We share common values. We act with unity. Yes, each market has its own nuances – but we all build toward a shared vision.
That’s why I want to share 2 messages with every listed ADI supplier:
1.
SUPPORT EVERY ADI PARTNER EQUALLY.
AD Adria may be winning some awards today – but not long ago, some key suppliers didn’t even consider offering us distribution rights. And this still happens, occasionally, to other ADI partners in their respective markets. To those suppliers: please reflect. Perhaps you're passing on a future success story.
2.
DON’T CREATE TWO SETS OF RULES.
Coming from two recently acquired companies under a major U.S. group, I’ve seen how supplier treatment can differ between "big players" and so-called "small fish." I ask you – stay balanced. When that balance is lost, we lose competitiveness. And without competitive distribution partners, even top-tier suppliers lose strategic counterweight in local markets. I'm confident you'll make the smart call and support all ADI partners fairly and consistently.
Let’s remember – this is, and always will be, a people business. No AI will replace our shared judgment, instinct, and trust (not for a while at least �� ). And sometimes, it’s those rare, human decisions – to back a smaller, emerging partner – that turn out to be the best ones.
In the end, we do not sell spare parts.We sell boxes and emotions – with service levels, stories, and people behind them.
For decades to come, AD Adria is here – to build those stories together with you. Let’s continue delivering the right boxes, the right emotions, and the right partnerships.
Warm regards, Dominik on behalf of the AD Adria / CIAK Grupa team
From left to right: Manuel Van Royen – Dominik Leko – Christian Gabler
PHE (Autodistribution France)
JOINS FORCES WITH TOP PART: A BIG STEP INTO THE IRISH MARKET
YOUR PARTNER IN RUNNING A SUCCESFULL AUTO BUSSINES
Parts Holding Europe (PHE), is entering the Irish market by acquiring a majority stake in Top Part , Ireland’s number one automotive aftermarket distributor. This move marks an important milestone in PHE’s plan to grow its presence across Europe.
Founded in 1978 in Tralee by Donal Dillane, Top Part has grown from a single store to a national network of 21 branches and over 300 employees . The company supplies more than 2,000 customers , including garages, trade professionals, and private clients. It also runs the Top Auto garage network , supporting 75 independent workshops across the country.
Top Part combines strong logistics-delivering over 20,000 parts daily -with a people-first culture. Many of its early customers are still with the company today, a sign of the trust and service it’s built over the last 47 years. The team also offers a wide range of tools, diagnostic equipment, and garage solutions, with expertise in both traditional and electric vehicles.
For PHE, this is more than a business deal. It’s about partnering with a team that shares the same values: professionalism, long-term vision, and a strong local presence. Stéphane Antiglio , President of PHE, says, “Top Part’s entrepreneurial spirit and leadership make it a perfect match for our group.”
Top Part’s leadership, including Donal Dillane and Pat Daly , will stay on board, and the company will continue to operate as normal. Customers and staff can expect the same great service, now backed by the resources and know-how of a European group.
With a growing car parc, a culture of repair, and new opportunities in hybrid and EV servicing, Ireland’s aftermarket sector is full of potential. Together, Top Part and PHE are set to lead the way forward-stronger, smarter, and ready for the future.
Thanks to this PHE acquisition in Ireland, AD International adds 1 country to its European footprint, bringing the counter to 41 countries.
Broman Group
60 YEARS OF GROWTH AS A FINNISH FAMILY BUSINESS EXPANDS INTERNATIONALLY
FOUNDED IN 1965, BROMAN GROUP HAS GROWN FROM A SMALL SHOP IN JOENSUU INTO ONE OF THE LEADING NORDIC COMPANIES SPECIALIZING IN MOTORING AND SPARE PARTS.
Today, the group includes, among others, Motonet department store chain and AD VaraosaMaailma B2B chain.
Starting this year, the company holds full ownership of AD Finland, having previously owned a 65% share. The acquisition significantly strengthens the company's competitiveness in the automotive spare parts and repair market.
By integrating consumer and business sales with cutting-edge logistics, we offer a uniquely comprehensive and rapidly accessible spare parts selection - ensuring exceptional availability, speed, and service for both B2C and B2B customers.
HOW THE STORY BEGAN?
It all began when Väinö H. Broman opened a car dealership in Joensuu, Eastern Finland, which soon shifted its focus to spare parts. The early involvement of his sons, Harri and Eero, ensured continuity, and the first generational transition took place already in 1995. The third generation is now also involved.
One of the major turning points in the company's history was joining the international AD network in the 1980s, opening up many new opportunities. Another significant event was the acquisition of the Motonet retail chain in 2007, which immediately scaled the business to a new level. Motonet’s first international store opened in Tallinn in 2016. Expansion to Sweden began a few years ago, and by the end of 2025, there will be seven department stores. In total, Motonet has nearly 50 stores, and AD VaraosaMaailma has over 40 locations.
INTERNATIONALIAZTION CONTINUES
Broman Group operates in Finland, Estonia, and Sweden. International growth is the key goal for the coming years.
Internationalization is supported by a modern logistics centre built near the Finnish capital Helsinki, enabling growth in the Swedish market.
Toni Stigzelius, CEO of Broman Group, believes that Motonet has the potential to become even larger in Sweden than in Finland. Success requires continuous modernization of business operations, improving service, and developing comprehensive product offerings.
READY FOR NEXT 60 YEARS
In its 60th anniversary year, the group made the largest charitable donation in its history – over one million euros were directed to support education, youth, sports, and national defense. Charity has been part of the company’s values since the 1970s.
The story of Broman Group is an example of how long-term effort, family entrepreneurship, and the courage to innovate can build international success –without forgetting one’s roots.
Harri Broman
ATBS 2025: 42,000+ FANS, FAST CARS & FESTIVAL VIBES
Romexpo Bucharest was buzzing this May as ATBS 2025 brought together over 42,000 auto lovers for Romania’s biggest car event, hosted by AD Auto Total. Two packed days featured wild drift shows, product launches, hands-on demos, and concerts by Mihai Mărgineanu, Tibi Scobiola Band, and Fără Zahăr.
DRIFT IN THE RAIN? NO PROBLEM.
Not even the rain could stop six high-adrenaline drift sessions. From European champ Alice Ene to rising stars like Alexis Stan, the lineup had fans cheering at every corner.
CUSTOM BUILDS & STRONGMAN FEATS
70+ show cars turned heads in the JuriLovCars Competition, with Alex Ghighilan’s BMW 325i winning “Best in Show.”
Meanwhile, Romania’s strongest athletes pulled off jaw-dropping lifts, and mechanics warmed up for the national “Mechanic of the Year” challenge.
THE FUTURE THE AFTERMARKET
130+ booths showcased cutting-edge tools and trends, plus appearances by rally stars Simone Tempestini and Norbert Maior. ATBS 2025 proved again: this is where the future of the aftermarket gets real.
Birner AT THE AUTOZUM 2025 – A GREAT SUCCESS!
Birner proudly participated in AutoZum 2025 , Austria’s leading trade fair for the automotive industry, held in Salzburg from January 22–25. With more than 1,000 m² of booth space , Birner showcased cutting-edge innovations and digital solutions for modern workshops, in cooperation with both long-standing and new industry partners.
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDED:
• A dedicated Women Power Day , celebrating the role of women in the automotive sector with inspiring talks, networking opportunities, and a guided tour through Birner’s digital innovation world – hosted by influencer Sylvia Graf.
• Live demonstrations of digital workshop tools such as ALLDATA, HaynesPro, and easyWerkstatt , along with exclusive brands COREXX and MEN@WORK , presented in cooperation with the CARAT Group.
• Unique experiences including a VIP entranc e, extended evening hours, and interactive theme areas focusing on e-mobility and state-of-the-art workshop equipment
SEE SOME HIGHLIGHTS HERE
Motortec 2025: A KEY MILESTONE FOR AD
Motortec 2025, held at IFEMA Madrid from April 23–26, marked a major success for AD, strengthening its leadership in digitalization, training, and future-oriented automotive services. Over 7,500 visitors were mobilized through AD partners, supported by significant logistics including 3,500 meals and 1,000 hotel nights. AD’s stands in halls 5 and 6 became central meeting points, attracting a strong professional audience to explore live demos and innovative solutions.
During the opening press conference, AD Parts introduced its strategic vision and highlighted major distribution agreements with Leao Tire, SWF, and Lesonal. The spotlight was on the AD Tech ecosystem, featuring tools like AD Taller, AD 360, the virtual assistant Adela, and AD Diag for remote diagnostics. Eduard Català and Francesc Poch also presented mekanicjobs.com, a new job platform aimed at attracting young talent.
A highlight of the event was the 25th anniversary celebration of the Millennium Program, a joint initiative with Grup Eina that has trained over 170,000 professionals across Europe. Josep Bosch, president of AD Parts, emphasized its key role in the group’s strategy, describing it as a benchmark in digitalization and continuous training. Over 25 years, Millennium has delivered more than 17,800 in-person training sessions and prepared over 135 vehicle models using GEDBox technology.
Motortec 2025 reaffirmed AD’s commitment to driving the sector toward a more digital, efficient, and professional future-ready to meet upcoming challenges and seize new opportunities alongside its partners.
STRENGTHENING THE FUTURE TOGETHER
At PHINIA, we truly value our partnership with AD International - a relationship built on shared ambition, technical excellence, and a commitment to empowering workshops with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive.
We’re incredibly proud to receive the ADI Growth Leadership Award, a recognition that highlights both our strong momentum and the trust ADI and its members place in us.
We’re equally excited about our new Eure!Car agreement, which brings Delphi’s technical expertise directly to ADI workshops across Europe. This collaboration will expand access to expert-led, hands-on training in diagnostics, electrification, ADAS, and fuel systems—helping technicians stay ahead in an ever-evolving aftermarket.
EXCITING TIMES AHEAD
We’re excited to share a glimpse of what’s coming in 2025. We’re raising the bar with even more products, smarter solutions, and greater support for aftermarket professionals. We’re set to launch:
• 500+ new SKUs in vehicle electronics
• 350+ in braking
• 1,000+ in steering & suspension
• 200+ in starters & alternators
That’s 2,000+ new SKUs, offering greater choice for workshops.
QUALITY PRODUCTS FOR PROFESSIONALS
In 2025, we’re introducing Professional+, our new brake pad range designed specifically for light commercial vehicles. Built with technicians in mind, it delivers:
• +40% durability on average
• Integrated shims, even where OE doesn’t
• Reduced downtime and longer-lasting performance
SMARTER WORKSHOP SOLUTIONS
We equip technicians with intelligent, integrated tools:
• DS HUB: Diagnostics, technical data, cataloguing, and Delphi Academy—it’s all in the hub
• Advanced diagnostics: full PC/HD coverage, CAN FD, security gateway access, integrated technical data
• Delphi Academy: Hands-on and online training, plus our Masters of Motion expert video series
PHINIA continues to push boundaries, expanding our range and providing intelligent tools for professionals. Discover our latest releases and stay ahead with PHINIA.
Navigating Change, Upholding Fairness:
FIGIEFA AND THE FUTURE OF THE INDEPENDENT AFTERMARKET
FROM POLICY SHIFTS TO GEOPOLITICAL HEADWINDS, FIGIEFA CONTINUES TO SAFEGUARD COMPETITION AND RESILIENT MOBILITY ACROSS EUROPE.
The year 2025 has ushered in a period marked by transition and uncertainty for the European Union. With the installation of a newly elected European Parliament and Commission, the institutions now face the critical task of shaping policies that will define Europe’s industrial and economic future. For the Independent Automotive Aftermarket (IAM), this moment is more than just a political change -it represents a decisive opportunity to provide our views on the rules that will govern the sector for the coming years.
FIGIEFA has taken proactive steps to ensure that the interests of the independent parts distributors and their service networks are represented in these conversations. As a key contributor to the European Commission’s Strategic Dialogue on the Future of the Automotive Industry, FIGIEFA has actively contributed to the new Automotive Industrial Action Plan. Our core message is clear: Europe’s economic competitiveness relies heavily on a robust and accessible aftermarket ecosystem that serves citizens and supports Europe’s industrial transformation.
Central to this message is the concept of "access"-not only to data and digital platforms but also to fair market conditions. FIGIEFA continues to advocate for dedicated legislation that secures access to in-vehicle data, functions, and technical resources. These are not abstract concerns: they are the essential tools for maintaining competition, lowering costs for consumers, and enabling sustainable, long-life vehicle usage.
Meanwhile, the first quarter of 2025 has been defined by market disruptions, many of them triggered by escalating geopolitical tensions, shifting trade dynamics, and logistical bottlenecks. In this environment, FIGIEFA has reiterated the strategic importance of an independent aftermarket that keeps vehicles running and costs manageable, even during global uncertainty. Our members across Europe are vital to supply chain flexibility and are instrumental in reducing emissions through repair, reuse, and an increase of longevity.
At the EU level, political momentum is growing for a competitiveness-focused industrial policy. Insights from the Letta and Draghi Reports, combined with the ambitious goals of the Green Deal and Digital Europe programmes, highlight a shift toward the EU’s strive for sovereignty, inno-
vation, and decarbonisation. Yet, this vision must include all components of the automotive value chainespecially those closest to consumers, such as independent repairers and parts distributors.
FIGIEFA is also strengthening alliances with partners such as the European Garage Equipment Association, the European Workshop Association, the European Data Publishers Association or the Rental and Leasing Industry to present the importance of our parts and services ecosystem to policy makers. We work to ensure that the sector's contributions to employment, affordability, and sustainability are not overlooked amid the attention given to major vehicle manufacturers.
Still, several regulatory gaps remain. Issues such as non-uniform enforcement of data access rights and emerging cybersecurity compliance burdens threaten to fragment the market and put smaller operators at a disadvantage. FIGIEFA continues to advocate for harmonised interpretation and strong oversight of EU law to prevent exclusionary practices.
A related challenge lies in the growing strain on SMEs in the aftermarket. Rising inflation, skills shortages, and the need to invest in digital and green tools have created a volatile operating environment. FIGIEFA advocates not only for a fair regulatory field, but also for greater support systems that allow small businesses to succeed -from training and funding to digital enablement.
To amplify these concerns, FIGIEFA has stepped up its communication efforts. Engagement has expanded through podcasts, policy debates, and media platforms to raise
awareness about the sector’s role. In March 2025, FIGIEFA partnered with Euractiv to host a high-level panel on fair access, competition, and circular mobility in the EU automotive space. These efforts are vital to ensure the IAM is recognised as a crucial player in delivering Europe’s green and digital ambitions.
In the months ahead, FIGIEFA’s mission remains consistent: connecting legislation to on-the-ground realities, bridging the gap between national actors and Brussels decision-making, and keeping fairness and functionality at the heart of Europe’s mobility framework.
The transition from institutional planning to policy execution is underway. As this process unfolds, FIGIEFA will continue to promote a fair, inclusive, and future-proof automotive aftermarket for all.
AD Network Celebrates 40 YEARS OF SUPPORTING REPAIRERS AND DRIVERS
In 2025, the AD network in France proudly marks its 40th anniversary—celebrating four decades of innovation, service, and commitment to both automotive professionals and motorists. From humble beginnings to becoming France’s leading independent multi-brand maintenance and repair network, AD now unites 2,275 workshops under its well-known red triangle.
A TRUSTED NAME FOR 40 YEARS
Staying true to its founding mission, AD offers a high-quality, affordable alternative to manufacturer networks. Today, it includes 1,462 mechanical workshops and 813 body shops, widely praised for their expertise and customer service. In 2024, AD achieved a strong 4.7/5 satisfaction rating, based on nearly 189,000 reviews—thanks to the efforts of over 10,000 dedicated professionals.
HELPING WORKSHOPS GROW
AD also supports its members with powerful growth tools. In 2024, collision repair shops saw a 9% revenue boost through partnerships with insurers and fleet operators—outperforming a declining market. Digital tools like AD.fr, offering instant quotes and online booking, led to a 14% increase in appointments and a 21% revenue jump.
Since 2021, 160 brand-affiliated agents have joined the network, reflecting AD’s growing appeal.
READY FOR THE FUTURE
As vehicle technology evolves, AD equips its members to stay ahead. New tools like Remote Diag and Remote PassThru enable remote diagnostics and software updates, while mandatory training ensures members remain highly skilled and up to date.
A YEAR OF CELEBRATIONS
To thank its customers, AD is offering year-long promotions on parts and exciting contests—with prizes like a hybrid car and electric bike. The anniversary will also be marked by a media campaign across TV, streaming platforms, and iconic show sponsorships.
“With 40 years behind us and the future ahead, AD remains a key partner for repairers and driverscommitted to constant innovation,” says Laurent Desrouffet, Managing Director of Repair Networks.
