European independent aftermarket representative body, FIGIEFA, is one of the key organisations when it comes to protecting the rights of the Independent Aftermarket in Europe. Last year, FIGIEFA appointed Irishman, Ronan McDonagh to the role of Technical Director.

Jon Pulsford of Autobiz recently spoke to Ronan McDonagh about the work of FIGIEFA, watch full interview HERE.

Jon spoke to Ronan about his role within FIGIEFA and some of the many challenges the aftermarket is currently facing. In the interview, Ronan, who has over 25 years’ experience in the automotive world in both OEM and aftermarket roles, explains how data is now a key driver in terms of vehicle maintenance and repair and how FIGIEFA is promoting a concept called the Secure On-board Telematics Platform, to ensure aftermarket operators can maintain fair access to in-car data.

He also touches on some of the other challenges the independent aftermarket faces, such as the renewal of Block Exemption regulations to ensure that dealers and independent garages compete on a fair basis and questions around how vehicle manufacturers will approach future vehicle cyber-security, something that could pose a huge potential threat to the aftermarket globally.

Ronan also touches on the important role of partner European aftermarket representative bodies and how aftermarket businesses need to invest to secure their future.  

There is also a Special Report on the challenges for the Aftermarket in the June/July issue of Autobiz.