When I look back on the year that has almost passed, it is with mixed feelings. Like most people, I am concerned about the security policy situation, sad that the war in Ukraine has not yet ended and the situation is still unstable in the Middle East. I sincerely hope that 2026 will be the year when we will experience positive development and lasting peace.
Major challenges for all parts of the automotive industry
In the automotive industry – among car manufacturers, their subcontractors, in the dealership and in the aftermarket – it is clear to everyone that we are experiencing an industry undergoing dramatic changes. With the technology shift to more sustainable technology as a driver – nothing is the same anymore.
Car manufacturers in the western part of the world are under pressure from Asian car manufacturers, who have made their entrance under our skies over the past few years. As a direct consequence of, among other things, tougher competition, but most recently also component shortages, several of the car manufacturers have had to reduce production capacity or lay off employees.
For the car manufacturers' suppliers, the reduced demand - combined with the fact that it requires far fewer, but also new types of components to produce a car with an electric powertrain - is bad news. As a direct consequence, many have had to reduce production capacity, lay off employees or turn the key.
At the dealer level, things don't look much better. To remain competitive - and inspired by Tesla's business model - car manufacturers and their importer network have terminated dealer agreements and thereby directly serve customers in few but large super stores and online.
At the car repair shops, there are also plenty of challenges to tackle. It has become difficult to find qualified labour – including apprentices – massive investments must be made in both continuing education, technology, tools and workshop equipment to be able to service all types of vehicles.
What do we do at Triscan?
At Triscan, we naturally follow developments closely. We will do our best to ensure that we as a company do not just keep up - but will take the lead. In this way, we ensure that we will continue to be a relevant and current partner for auto parts wholesalers in the aftermarket.
Satisfaction among Triscan's customers
A good example of this is that we launched our electric and hybrid car programme back in 2018. It wasn't just a product news – it was a signal that we were already getting ready for the future. We were first movers - and even though sales were limited in the first couple of years, recent years have shown us that the investment was just right. With the know-how - and the lead we have created in this way - we are today super strong in the market with a programme of almost 7,500 references. The EV parts have become part of everyday life for many workshops - and we can deliver a lot of them.
Our latest major venture - air condition hoses - has attracted a lot of interest in most markets. Until now, AC hoses have only been available as OES parts - with a few exceptions - and the alternatives are often of varying quality. We have now changed that, by introducing the without comparison largest programme of the most sought-after references in AC hoses. All manufactured in original quality and fit.
We have also taken steps towards a more sustainable future. Our new exchange programme for starters and alternators is a good example of this. It's not just about saving money for workshops and car owners – it's also about taking responsibility for the environment. To give products a new life instead of throwing them away.
Triscan starters and alternators
The industry on the move
If we look at the big picture, the aftermarket is still strong. In fact, it is growing – though slowly. From €130 billion in 2015 to over €150 billion today, and with the prospect of €161 billion in 2035. But growth is not what it used to be. And that means we have to be sharp. Consumers are still choosing the free aftermarket, and our market share is increasing – but only if we can deliver the value that is expected.
What are the possible consequences of the technology shift for the independent aftermarket? – Part 1
What are the possible consequences of the technology shift for the independent aftermarket? - Part 2
The future calls
Change is not a threat, but an opportunity. At Triscan, we have chosen to embrace it. We invest in new products, digital solutions and collaborations. We do this because we believe that the free aftermarket has an important role to play – also in an electric and digital future.
Thank you to all our customers, partners and employees for being part of the journey. 2026 will not be easier. But it will be exciting. And we are ready.