As the automotive aftermarket leader, we’re committed to helping our customers, investors, business partners, colleagues and their families understand the long-term social and environmental impact the actions of businesses have on society. Leading with integrity means we act responsibly. We continually work to balance economic efficiency, uphold social responsibility, and shape the automotive aftermarket for the better.
Fair competition between vehicle manufacturers (OEMs), service networks and independent aftermarket (IAM) players are prerequisites for consumer choice in the Automotive Aftermarket. Therefore, an aftermarket monopoly should not be permitted to emerge when vehicle manufacturers erect proprietary barriers. Importantly, vehicle owners, not manufacturers, should decide who has access to their vehicle data. At LKQ UK and Ireland, we strive to ensure our consumer always has the autonomy to choose preferred service partners.
In 2023, working alongside our industry partners, LKQ UK and Ireland protested the Department of Transport’s proposed changes to increase the time between a vehicle requiring an MOT. The consultation saw LKQ highlighting the negative effect that the proposed changes would’ve had for the UK’s reputation for road safety and net zero ambitions – as well as ending up costing drivers more money than less. These plans have now been scrapped with the Government continuing to work with LKQ UK and Ireland, and other industry stakeholders, alongside drivers to establish a longer-term reform for MOTs.
Fair competition in UK and Ireland includes the Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Order (MVBEO), which empowers customers and vehicle owners to freely choose dealers, service and repair shops, and spare parts. The MVBEO entered into force in June 2023, replacing the EU Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Regulation (MVBER) which was retained EU law in the UK post-Brexit. This new version intends to further strengthen competition and better reflect the more specific needs of the UK aftermarket.