In the dynamic world of the car industry, a steady supply of parts and components is imperative. Without it, it would be impossible to maintain the desired production levels and keep up with demand and quality standards. Automotive fastener suppliers know that very well, and due to the sheer number of different items needed to complete a vehicle, those companies invest much time and effort in delivering on time and in large quantities requested by car assembly specialists. However, maintaining supply to aftermarket users is a whole other story and a challenging one. Here is why…
Demands Of The Aftermarket
Compared to OEM production and supply, aftermarket users have a completely different set of needs. OEM buyers are buying in bulk with clear plans, amounts, and dates for delivery. They demand specific quality, and their business is predictable. However, aftermarket users are entirely different. Along with the standard set of fasteners used in repair or replacement purposes, aftermarket buyers are also looking for more extreme items needed for tuned vehicles, racing cars, off-road models, and so on. The kind of fasteners for the aftermarket need to perform even better or withstand more torture than the ones used in OEM applications. This puts enormous pressure on the automotive fastener supplier to source a more specific item for those extreme users along with standard items.
Due to the ever-changing nature of the automotive aftermarket world, fastener manufacturers need to pay attention to all current and future trends and adjust to the needs of prospective buyers. Rising interest in a specific type of build will inevitably result in the need for appropriate fasteners and components. It is crucial to see that in advance, develop the product and establish steady supply to the sellers.
Supply Chain
In order to secure their supply chain and minimalise delivery times, most automotive fastener suppliers adopt a three-tier approach. The company establishes a manufacturing site, development centre, and distribution centre.
The manufacturing site is basically a factory where the fasteners are made, shipped to the distribution centre, a giant warehouse from which the product is delivered to shops, retail hubs, and customers. However, the vital part of the three-tier approach is also the development centre, and just like the distribution centre, it needs to be regional. The development centre’s purpose is to work with local car companies as well as with local aftermarket specialists, brands, and shops. This way, the automotive fastener company is capable of answering the aftermarket needs and providing them with products of the highest quality, perfectly tailored for their needs.
The communication between the manufacturing site and distribution centre needs to be constant, and it could be challenging if the factory and warehouse are not on the same continent or in the same country. However, organising distribution centres in major industrial areas, ports, or along the well-developed road network helps deliver products to the customers in the shortest amount of time.
At AUTO-FASTENERS, our aim is to ensure that the supply of automotive aftermarket fasteners and small parts either as individual components or kits is maintained to the highest standards throughout the vehicle life. We offer a range of automotive aftermarket fasteners and small parts solutions backed by highly flexible tailored services to meet the varying needs of different manufacturers and vehicle end of life. Our aftermarket fastener services include stock holding, product marking and labelling, packaging, branding, low minimum order quantities and more.
Get in touch today at: http://www.auto-fasteners.com/contact/