The latest IAAF ‘Briefing Bitesize’ session has taken place, with members logged in to learn more about the effects of the coronavirus on the industry, as well as the potential opportunities ahead.
Hosted by Mike Smallbone, head of membership development at IAAF, the Zoom session provided members with an update on IAAF activity, as well as an interesting insight into the consequences of Covid-19, with Quentin Le Hetet from GiPA in attendance as a guest speaker to discuss the topic further.
Le Hetet explored both the short-term and long-term effects that the industry is set to face.
Immediate consequences for businesses included organisational changes such as adopting furlough schemes, social distancing measures and cashflow management.
For garages, changes in organisation are to be expected such as increasing services to improve the customer experience, including pick-up, mobile and drop-off services, as well as public changes, with more people embracing the private car as they actively avoid public transport.
Meanwhile, Le Hetet set out four axes of analysis for more long-term changes, firstly urging the aftermarket to prepare for an inevitable spike in MOTs, as well as the downturn that looks likely next April and May.
From January to June 2020, passenger new car registrations decreased 42 per cent in comparison to the same period last year, which is good news, in the short term, for the aftermarket, as the growth of the aging car parc will lead to a greater need for servicing and vehicle maintenance. However, Le Hetet also warned that vehicle manufacturers may seize the opportunity to service these older vehicles and therefore urged the aftermarket to act fast.
Mike Smallbone wrapped up the event saying: “Once again, it’s great to engage face to face with members from all parts of the supply chain. These sessions enable us to communicate directly with the industry, as well as allowing us to hear their views on current trends or issues affecting the industry.”
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