The Eurorepar Car Service (ERCS) network has marked its return to exhibition’s with the UK Garage and Bodyshop Event (UK GBE).
It has revealed plans for future events over the next few years, following the creation of the Octago joint venture last month.
Neil Gibbs, UK country manager for Octago and Head of the ERCS network, said: “We had an overwhelming response at this year’s Garage and Bodyshop event with close to 100 new garages expressing an interest in joining the network. It’s a challenging time for a lot of workshops, many of which are upskilling and recruiting to manage the complexity of modern vehicles.
“Accessing support from OEMs is enabling them to make this transition more quickly, with structured access to training, assessments and technical support that mirror the standards required within franchise operations.
“The independent sector has a track record of thriving in the face of every challenge thrown its way and we’re seeing that through greater collaboration and support, the sector is continuing to evolve.”
The Eurorepar Car Service network has already appointed several new performance managers to cover key geographical areas of the UK.
It plans to work more closely with members, strengthening collaboration between workshops and their local Distrigo distribution hubs.
Gibbs added: “It’s a busy but exciting time for us as Stellantis doubles down on its commitment to the independent sector. We’ve listened carefully to members and the wider market, and we’re responding with more resource, more presence and more meaningful support than ever before.
“The trade show commitments are a statement of intent. We’re investing in these platforms because face-to-face engagement with independent operators is irreplaceable.
“The conversations we have on a stand, the questions people ask, the problems they bring to us – that intelligence shapes everything we do.”
