Efficient processes play a major role in a company’s profitability. The independent aftermarket (IAM) is offered far-reaching potential by digitalizing and optimizing internal workflows. At the same time, the pressure to act is high – the rise of e-mobility as well as carsharing schemes create complex requirements that call for flexible IT solutions in the IAM business.
Depending on make and model, cars consist of so many individual parts that it’s impossible to stock every spare part at all times. A powerful automotive ERP solution plays an essential role in maximizing efficiency in inventory management including seasonal inventory planning for automotive parts dealers. Seasonal planning ensures, for example, that there are enough tires available in spring or fall when most car owners plan to change their tires. Precise planning significantly shortens delivery times, and also cuts costs – storage space is expensive, and a seasonally adjusted product range will generate more profit using the same space.
The problems don’t end there for the IAM trade: Cars are essential assets rather than prestige objects, and car owners are reluctant to spend more than they need to on their cars. Meanwhile, electrification have made some spare parts more expensive, which also cuts into the margins. An effective automotive ERP solution helps make up the shortfall by increasing efficiency and saving time.
Added value with an automotive ERP solution
Repair shops and dealerships face new service requirements especially due to the increasing share of fleet customers. Globalization is fueling the price war in the IAM trade. Service providers also need to expand from sales and leasing to customer loyalty. Industry-specific ERP solutions also show their strengths here. First, more efficient business processes create more time to focus on customer service; second, data management and customer relationship systems can be connected to reinforce customer relationships.
