The automotive aftermarket division of Robert Bosch GmbH and Castrol have announced a partnership to open 25 co-branded repair shops in the U.S., and another 25 in China.
The pilot phase started in Orlando, Fla., and Suzhou, China this month.
The partners currently envisage that this test will include up to 25 joint workshops in each of these markets.
Each company will contribute its unique expertise to develop a successful repair shop model – Castrol with its lubricants, and Bosch with its parts, shop management services, and repair equipment.
A joint press release from the companies says, “The concepts being tested include advanced, digitally-enabled services bringing drivers the highest levels of quality and convenience at an affordable price. They will feature a unique look and feel, creating a differentiated offer that meets evolving consumer preferences in maintenance experience, convenience needs and digital choices, as well as sustainability considerations.”
Expansion of the network will be decided after the completion of the pilot program.
“As a leading global automotive supplier and expert in technical diagnostics and workshop concepts, Bosch has successfully offered high-quality automotive products and services for workshops and car drivers for many decades,” said Manfred Baden, President of Bosch Automotive Aftermarket. “Together with Castrol, our two leading brands will join forces for a new workshop concept to serve today`s and tomorrow`s market needs, and to reach more business partners and drivers. This new offer pursues our goal of providing our customers with a comprehensive, future-oriented range of mobility services for various kinds of vehicles.”
Mandhir Singh, CEO OF Castrol said, “At Castrol, we have developed a deep understanding of the workshop aftermarket. We are committed to leveraging our long-standing expertise in innovative lubricants technologies, brand and marketing, digital and consumer insights to develop sustainable workshop businesses built around value-adding consumer experiences. We are delighted to see this vision shared by our partner Bosch, with their complementary values in technology and channel management.”
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