Source: MAHLE announcement
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BILSTON, U.K. – MAHLE Aftermarket UK is adjusting to the new ‘normal’ to sustain critical activities and support its wide customer base of distributors and independent garages.
Original equipment manufacturer (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.
“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,” said Jonathan Walker, Managing Director MAHLE Aftermarket Ltd. “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.”
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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. Demand is still present to keep vehicles on the road for essential journeys, even considering 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 at 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 digitalization plans. All office staff now can work completely from home, and the Customer Care call center 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.
