In TecTalk Episode 5, Neil Fryer, Vice President and General Manager Global Aftermarket at PHINIA, shares his expertise on the trends shaping the automotive aftermarket. With over 30 years in the industry, Neil offers a wealth of knowledge on how competition, digitalization, and sustainability are reshaping the automotive aftermarket.
This episode explores the aftermarket’s evolving landscape, highlighting the benefits of competition, the balance between OEMs and independent players, and the impact of digitalization on supply chains. Neil also discusses the industry’s role in advancing sustainability, preparing for EVs and hydrogen vehicles, and unlocking opportunities in emerging markets like Asia and South America.
Competition, Neil believes, is the driving force behind progress. “You should never be afraid of competition. Competition makes you better,” he says, emphasizing how it pushes both OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and Independent Aftermarket (IAM) players to innovate. While OEMs excel in certain areas, independent players re-engineer parts and improve services to meet evolving needs. This dynamic creates a balanced ecosystem where consumers benefit from better solutions and a diverse range of options.
A major focus of the conversation is the role of digitalization in transforming supply chains. Neil envisions a possible future where technologies like 3D printing enable on-demand production, reducing inventory, cutting waste, and decentralizing supply chains. This evolution would not only make operations more efficient but also contribute to sustainability by minimizing the industry’s environmental impact.
The shift toward electric vehicles (EVs) and alternative fuels is another critical trend. The aftermarket must prepare for a new generation of vehicles, ensuring workshops and technicians are equipped with the knowledge and tools they need. PHINIA is leading the way by investing heavily in training programs, including those for hydrogen-powered vehicles, which Neil predicts will gain traction in the coming decade. Staying ahead of these changes is vital for the industry’s ability to adapt and thrive.
Sustainability lies at the heart of many aftermarket practices. By extending the lifespan of vehicles through high-quality repairs and remanufacturing, the industry plays a pivotal role in reducing waste and emissions. Neil underscores the importance of maintaining vehicles to their original emissions standards, ensuring they contribute to a cleaner, greener future. This responsibility, he believes, is key to the aftermarket’s role in the global sustainability journey.
Emerging markets in regions like Asia and South America add another layer of complexity and opportunity. These areas are not a “one-size-fits-all” scenario; instead, they require tailored approaches that address local challenges and needs. By adapting strategies to fit these unique markets, the aftermarket can unlock significant growth potential while building sustainable practices that align with global goals.
Neil’s insights offer a vision of an aftermarket that is not only evolving but thriving. Competition drives innovation. Digitalization reshapes supply chains. Sustainability becomes a core focus. And emerging markets provide new opportunities to expand and adapt. The future of the aftermarket is full of potential, and Episode 5 of TecTalk explores how the industry can seize these opportunities.
Join us in this episode for an inspiring discussion with Neil Fryer, packed with actionable insights for industry leaders, innovators, and anyone passionate about the future of mobility.
🎙️ Listen to the full episode on your favourite platform:
Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podigee | Audible | YouTube [with video]
