CarFix World goes global with Automechanika Canada

The term ‘globalization’ has become so ubiquitous that it is now something of a clich. Almost every industry is either surging ahead or suffering from ‘globalization;’ and every service or product, from cars to ice cream, seems to be made someplace other than where the head office of the producer is located.

The aftermarket is no different. Today, aftermarket parts manufactures are starting to look overseas to build their products and overseas parts manufacturers are looking to enter the Canadian market.

That is why the announcement by Messe Frankfurt to partner with Business Information Group, who produce CarFix World, to launch Automechanika Canada is welcome news to the Canadian aftermarket and independent service providers.

Automechanika Canada is looking to bring the global aftermarket to Canadians, with some 40 per cent of the exhibitor floor space being devoted to international suppliers of parts and services. This means Canadian independent service providers and Jobbers will be able to see the newest technologies and services entering into the Canadian market. This is a fantastic opportunity to get a first-hand look at some of the newest international players who will be knocking on the front door of your shop or distribution centre.

At the same time, such an international presence being supported by Messe Frankfurt’s long experience running twelve Automechanika shows across the globe means those attending Automechanika Canada will get a chance to see how much the Canadian aftermarket has become part of a global marketplace. The choices for parts, services and technologies available are now phenomenally larger than ever before, giving shop owners and distributors more avenues for getting what they need to better serve their clients. As well, these international exhibitors will likely showcase new kinds of technologies and services that independent service providers can use to generate new revenue and business opportunities.

In an editorial last year, I pointed out how Asian companies were bringing out entertainment kits and systems for mini-vans and automobiles. These systems were made to be easily installed by the independent service provider and offer a wealth of new business opportunities and growth. These kinds of technologies, along with a host of others, will likely be on display at Automechanika Canada and one can expect the providers of the technologies will be eager to talk to Canadian shop owners and technicians about how to get them into Canadian vehicles.

What should also pique the interest of service providers as well is Automechanika Canada will be looking to have numerous training and technical classes, as well as speakers talking about the latest tools and equipment. The training programs and seminars at CarFix World were some of the best attended and most appreciated parts of the show; and Automechanika Canada looks to continue and expand on that success, with new speakers and programs.

Automechanika Canada promises to be an exciting show for everyone and I hope everyone takes advantage of it when it opens in September.