The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) has praised the Government’s decision to allow the automotive aftermarket supply chain to remain open and for MOTs to continue during the third national lockdown.
The latest Government guidance has classified businesses within the industry as ‘essential’, meaning that the vital work it provides can continue.
Wendy Williamson, IAAF Chief Executive, said: “Our sector plays a vital role in people’s mobility and therefore it is important that suppliers, motor factors and garages can continue to ensure vehicles are as safe as possible when on the road. We are therefore very thankful that the sector will be able to continue to operate, as it will enable garages to service and carry out essential repair and maintenance work.
“The aftermarket has taken this new way of life in its stride, and we have seen many examples of businesses and individuals going above and beyond to implement new health and safety procedures while following NHS and Government guidelines. There is light on the horizon, and we urge all businesses to continue to set a great example, just as they have done throughout the pandemic.”
This includes the introduction of products and services such as vehicle sanitiser kits that can be used before and after a vehicle is brought into a workshop; collection services, whereby garages have offered to pick up and drop off a vehicle to customers who are unable to leave their home; and ‘click and collect’ services from suppliers and motor factors, enabling a safe and secure distribution of parts.
