Retailer news

Heritage is the key driver behind Simoniz’s new black and gold rebrand. The change and re-livery of its products is harking back to the days of Simoniz’s iconic Original Wax gold tin, as it looks to continue its sales drive in the UK

Aftermarket small and medium sized businesses could be set to benefit from better funding as Government scrutinises the lending process. The Parliamentary Treasury Committee is beginning its inquiry today, and will be investigating how easy it is for SMEs to borrow money, the treatment they receive from the banks and how to open the sector up to more competition

Using an online system can increase the business efficiency of suppliers communicating to retailers and factors. TecDoc has seen a number of recent successes that not only given the independent aftermarket more freedom, but also benefited new suppliers looking to target this sector

Valeo has launched a new catalogue outlining all of its Silencio range of wiper blades. It has the complete range of 221 part numbers consisting of a mix of universal, flat blade, specific-fit, rear and hybrid wipers, covering more than 96 percent of the car parc.

Despite the best efforts of the British weather we were delighted to welcome the great and good of the aftermarket to the 2014 CAT Awards. While the sun was shining as our event kicked off, rain, wind and flooding made for some epic journeys for those making their way to the awards venue at Twickenham Stadium from around the UK and abroad

Comline has just launched its thousandth part number in its newly formed steering and suspension range. The announcement comes just 12 months on from when this product category was originally launched, and has seen it quadruple its range from 250 to 1000 parts.

Mike Owen looks at the changing expectations of motorists and explores the importance and value to be gained from customer service training. In the 128 years since Karl Benz produced his first Motorwagen an entire industry has grown up and passed through many incarnations to arrive at where we are now. This in turn has allowed sufficient time for some deep-rooted attitudes to become entrenched into how we operate our businesses

Automotive charity Skidz is in talks to expand its project and start up a pilot branch in Belfast. The charity, which helps disadvantaged young people into motor studies, is looking to expand its programme nationwide. The new venture will see a partnership formed with the Integrated Education Fund in Northern Ireland, which operates 60 schools with the aim of breaking down the barriers created by different religions

Small and medium-sized businesses hit by flooding could benefit from financial support in a new £10 million package announced by Government today. Although there is no cap on maximum payments under the Business Support Scheme hardship funding, Government suggests that equivalent schemes have seen average claims of £2,500 per business

A well-recruited and trained apprentice can generate a return on investment of up to 300 percent for automotive businesses, according to a new study from the Institute of the Motor Industry. Based on a £50 hourly charge out rate, the report says businesses stand to benefit between £1.50 and £300 for every £1 they put in.