Stellantis-owned Eurorepar Car Service’s (ERCS) new head of network Neil Gibbs wants to help bridge the divide between franchised dealers and the independent aftersales sector.
Gibbs said the ERCS meesage is “it needn’t be OEMs and franchises versus independents, but that we can all work together”.
He said: “That’s the point of ERCS and Distrigo, but the sector is still a long way from adopting this mindset, which is critical to the future.”
Gibbs brings a deep understanding of both OEM operations and the independent aftermarket landscape at a critical time as workshops navigate electrification challenges.
Stellantis launched Eurorepar in the UK in June 2023 to create an all-makes garage network that supplies independent garages with the resources needed for visibility and growth, from marketing advice, to incentivised access to Stellantis Group’s parts distribution brand, Distrigo.
Gibbs said independent garages face a new landscape where, for survival, many need to meet the same service standards, marketing presence, and professional appearance as main dealers.
“Training and resources are key to independent survival,” Gibbs explained.
“But it’s tough for independent garage owners to take time out of the business. This is why the network is looking at how to make things like our training programmes more accessible for the demands of independents.”
Gibbs also recognises the growing importance of data in the modern automotive landscape.
“Access to critical vehicle and market data is becoming essential to the operations of independent businesses.
“ERCS recognises the significance of this shift and is committed to exploring ways to support the network in leveraging this information effectively.
“We want to bring the network closer together as a community – connecting our members with their supplying Distrigo hubs and Stellantis as an organisation through social media, working groups, dealer councils and building genuine rapport.
“There should be real pride in being part of this network.”
Under Gibbs’ leadership, ERCS will leverage enhanced OEM connections to provide members with technical support and more flexible training solutions.
His primary mission is to reinstate the value of the network to members while ensuring they can compete effectively without compromising their independent status.
The appointment reflects ERCS’ commitment to supporting independent workshops through industry transitions while ensuring they have access to OEM-quality resources and expertise.
Gibbs will work closely with the existing network team to implement new initiatives designed to enhance member competitiveness and profitability.