STORAGE, HANDLING & DISTRIBUTION
ADJUSTING TO NEW NORMAL
MAHLE AFTERMARKET UK
Mahle supports distribution network during pandemic crisis
MAHLE Aftermarket UK is adjusting to the
new ‘normal’ to sustain critical activities
and support their wide customer base of
distributors and independent garages.
OEM production has experienced
unprecedented levels of factory shutdown,
with new vehicle sales not possible in many
areas and demand at an all-time low. In the
UK aftermarket, due to closure of many
distributors and garages, the market has
fallen considerably.
But despite this, many opportunities still
exist, says MAHLE and the company
is working with customers to take full
advantage.
While regular service products such as
filtration are in decline, sales of distress
parts including rotating electrics and engine
components continue at almost normal
levels. It is clear that demand is still present
to keep vehicles on the road for essential
journeys, even in light of the MOT extension
period. In support, the MAHLE reduction in
minimum order values to qualify for free next
day carriage has been extended into May.
The MAHLE supply chain is also as strong
as ever, with hundreds of pallets arriving
into Bilston every week from European
distribution hubs as normal.
In accordance with social distancing
measures and government guidelines,
colleagues are fully protected with PPE
and strict one-way routes through the
warehouse. Due to the advanced Pick by
Voice solution, it is also possible to enforce
social distancing through the warehouse
management system.
As with many other businesses, the current
situation has presented an ideal opportunity
to push forward with digitalisation plans.
All office staff now have the ability to work
completely from home, and the Customer
Care call centre functions as normal with
the team connecting remotely.
Most administration tasks have already
changed to fully digital or are in the process
of going paperless. Hundreds of customers
have now been set up on the MAHLE
eCommerce portal, allowing them to check
pricing and stock availability, or even
request returns from any device with a web
browser.
Jonathan Walker, Managing Director
MAHLE Aftermarket Ltd, said: “The MAHLE
Aftermarket UK team have performed
admirably adjusting to the new normal and
we are working around the clock to support
customers’ changing requirements. MAHLE
Aftermarket UK is fully open for business
and we’ve enhanced the support customers
receive through greater investment in
digital connectivity and ecommerce
solutions.”
For further information, please visit www.mahle-aftermarket.com/eu/en/
72 PECM Issue 45