INSIDE THIS ISSUE …
REGULARS
2 Note from the MD
3 For Your Information
WELCOME
Note from the MD
12 Newsdesk 13 Take a Break with BLUE PRINT 22 FPS Product Index
24 Competition Time Your chance to win a Weber gas barbecue , courtesy of TRW !
FEATURES
4 Encapsulating Aftermarket Demands The latest developments from the 360 ° programme
6 Lighten Up The Heavy-Duty Tasks KILEN highlights the significance of heavy-duty coil springs for LCVs
7 Technical Expertise CAMBIARE describes the aftersales support service provided by their specialist technical team
8 Easy , Speedy , One and a Million K & N shares upselling opportunities for air filters
9 Steering on Course with Solid
Suspensions The latest additions to the FAHREN steering & suspension range
10 Sturdy Mountings . Sturdy Engines . FIRST LINE tells VITAL NEWS how you can benefit from the increasing demand for replacement engine mountings
11 The OE-riginal Standard GATES explains why a strong OE pedigree is so important in today ’ s aftermarket
14 Well Conditioned NISSENS gives VITAL NEWS a valuable insight into the latest condensers and compressors
15 Injecting Insights CARWOOD shares valuable fault identification and prevention advice
16 Perfect Finish Introducing the latest range of high-performance aerosols and brush-on paints from AUTOTEK
17 Alfresco in Royal Style ROYAL showcases their latest picnicware range in time for daytrip season
18 Rail-y Good ! VITAL NEWS highlights the latest roof bars from MONT BLANC
19 Lucratively Clean PMA advises on how to make the most of the sales opportunities provided by automotive valeting
20 What ’ s in store for the IAAF in 2017 ? The latest news from IAAF Chief Executive Wendy Williamson
21 Hard-to-Find Parts The latest additions to the 360 ° parts portfolio
As we enter the second quarter of 2017 , macroeconomic changes from Brexit and the US elections have yet to fully unfold . Whilst we watch how these changes can potentially cascade into the automotive aftermarket , there are some important topics that need resolutions closer to home .
The open consultation of extending the first MOT test has recently gained more traction with it closing on April 16 th . Whilst motorists may see the immediate appeal of saving money , many argue that it is a case of ‘ penny wise , pound foolish ’ for the British economy . Implications to the automotive industry aside , more than 20 % of vehicles fail their first MOT . Extending the MOT frequency can lead to higher failure rates as non-roadworthy vehicles with no official mileage or emissions recorded remain on UK roads for an extended year . If you have strong opinions on this , there is still time to voice them to the government .
Speaking of emissions , the talk of a national diesel scrappage scheme and murmurs of imposing a pollution tax on new diesel vehicles to combat air pollution has had its criticisms . In this climate , the odds seem to be stacked against diesel vehicles despite its current significance in the UK car parc . There will be changes to the aftermarket , the only question remaining is the extent of these changes .
CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE …
However , changes often bring forth new opportunities . Perhaps we will a shift in demand for hybrid parts and expertise going forward ? Only time will tell .
In FPS , we keep an eye on emerging technology and niche products in the aftermarket through the 360 ° programme . Find out more about 360 ° developments on page 4 . Also be sure to check out the latest developments from Cambiare , Kilen , K & N , Fahren , First Line , Gates , Carwood , Nissens , PMA Valeting , Autotek , Royal and Mont Blanc .
Being recognised by CAT Magazine as Supplier of the Year was a wonderful hallmark for FPS as it represented the cohesive relationship we have with our customers , suppliers and colleagues . I want to thank FPS suppliers and customers for their continued support over the years . FPS understands the importance of product availability , the right mix of brands and customer service . With that , we keep investing to in efforts to continue supporting the aftermarket better .
Thank you and happy reading !
Neil Davis Managing Director , FPS ndavis @ fpsdistribution . co . uk
PROUD TO SUPPORT
2 CONTENTS VITAL NEWS ISSUE 46