First Steps Taken to Open Up Aftersales Market to Independent Providers Right to Repair ft’s.AzAr_chuicel_ The Right to Repair R2R Campaign has welcomed the decision by Volkswagen VW to make several changes in relation to the independent aftermarket. They hope this move signals a willingness by manufacturers to start opening up the aftersales market to independent providers. “Thanks to the process started by the Competition Commission, we believe VW is also being guided by the practices in the European Union,” said Gunther Schmitz, spokesperson for Right to Repair SA. In a submission to the Competition Commission, VW stated that it would commit to ensuring that warranties will remain in place if service, maintenance or repair work is performed by independent third parties. Along with that, it committed to making tools and equipment, as well as the technical literature required for servicing and repair of VW vehicles, available from approved dealers. Lastly, it stated that VW is prepared to consider training for independent service providers. “This is a great step forward,” commented Schmitz. “We understand that the Competition Commission is still finalising the Code of Conduct and due to the complexity of the topic many stakeholder engagements are required. In the meantime, the submission by VW shows that some manufacturers are open to allowing the same competitive environment as is standard in Europe.” VW stated that it would commit to ensuring that warranties will remain in place if service, maintenance or repair work is performed by independent third parties. Schmitz highlighted that the R2R campaign aims to allow consumers to select where their vehicles are serviced, maintained and repaired at competitive prices in the workshop of their choice. “There is a need for a fair and competitive regulatory environment that enables freedom of choice for consumers and gives aftermarket Small Medium Enterprises a chance to stay in business. “We applaud VW on taking the first step and we are looking forward to seeing other manufacturers follow suit,” he concluded. Gunther Schmitz, spokesperson for Right to Repair SA.