Automotive & construction equipment industry
10-6-2010
Independent lubricant suppliers in Europe declared a legislative victory two weeks ago with the region’s adoption of rules meant to encourage more competition in the supply of automotive aftermarket materials, including engine oils.
After more than a year of debate and discussion, the European Commission presented a new Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Regulation written to keep automakers from using warranties to control oil changes and other types of maintenance and repairs. The Independent Union of the European Lubricants Industry (UEIL) said the changes should allow independent automotive service providers to better compete with dealerships and that, in turn, should increase sales opportunities for UEIL members.