Inflation and modernisation are the biggest challenges facing UK workshops, according to annual Europe-wide research from LKQ Euro Car Parts that surveyed over 1,200 customers and external samples across the UK.
The study found that more than three in five (62%) of UK garages view inflation as a major concern for the next five years. Meanwhile, 43% identified technological advances as a challenge, followed by the rise of electric vehicles (35%) and parts availability (29%).
Despite inflation topping the list of worries, the research highlighted that a good relationship with branch staff is the most important factor when garages choose a supplier (48%). This was followed by speed of delivery (47%), stock availability (44%), and competitive prices (38%).
Matt Robinson, B2B Director at LKQ Euro Car Parts, said: “Like many businesses across the economy, increased overheads – like rising labour and energy costs – is putting pressure on garages’ margins. But the aftermarket also faces the unique challenge of reskilling and retooling to support an electric and technologically advanced car parc.”
Robinson noted that the company is responding to these pressures by making major investments to bring greater value to its parts range and by reinvesting all proceeds from its LKQ Academy back into training provision. He also stressed the importance of personal service, adding: “Availability and speed of delivery are clearly important, but it’s people and relationships that make the difference. UK garages value relationships more than their EU counterparts according to our study.”
For more information please click here.