Trust in TRW

“TRW considers that while the automotive industry is clearly experiencing a tough period, the aftermarket is not in crisis in Europe”

TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. (NYSE: TRW), the global leader in active and passive safety systems, achieved a new sales high in 2008 of $15 billion – a growth of 2%
TRW Automotive Aftermarket sales accounted for approximately 8% of this total
TRW is one of the top ten automotive suppliers in Europe

As a result of the downturn in the economy, ecological factors, product and technology developments and customer behaviour, TRW foresees a market evolution in four phases for the automotive aftermarket:

2009 first half	a tightening of the market due to financial difficulties faced by a number of players in the distribution chain and at installer level and the extension of service and replacement intervals.
2009 second half	return to normality, repair and maintenance needs can no longer be put off having seen the extension of service intervals from mid 2008 manufacturer networks will look to increase their market share in service and repair, with a particular focus on customer loyalty.
2010	start of the effect of the aging vehicle parc impact of market consolidation by a number of players.

2009 first half

a tightening of the market due to financial difficulties faced by a number of players in the distribution chain and at installer level and the extension of service and replacement intervals.

2009 second half

return to normality, repair and maintenance needs can no longer be put off having seen the extension of service intervals from mid 2008

manufacturer networks will look to increase their market share in service and repair, with a particular focus on customer loyalty.

2010

start of the effect of the aging vehicle parc

impact of market consolidation by a number of players.

So, how has TRW managed to remain buoyant and grow sales in such a tough environment?

The following points outline the thoughts of François Augnet, Vice President of TRW Automotive Aftermarket Europe and Asia Pacific.

Depth and breadth of the range
We are ‘chassis specialists’ with a complete offering, creating synergies to support customers
The IAM has access to OE quality parts manufactured by a tier one supplier
TRW Automotive Aftermarket has presence across the entire aftermarket: OES and IAM
We develop our programmes and services and respond to the specific requirements of our customers
TRW has consolidated the internal management of its OES and IAM

Strategic priorities for TRW Automotive Aftermarket Europe

Increasing environmental opportunities

Remanufacturing
Heavy metal free pads

Customer support development

Diagnostics
Training

Organisation

Putting the customer first

Improved legislation - a major target for TRW

Legislation on the performance of the brake discs. TRW recommends the establishment regulation ECE-R 90 for discs
Legislation to ensure the safety standards for remanufactured and / or reclaimed parts
Legislation for the sale of products in pairs