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Industry News / 2 May 2023 / Partner

AutoZone supports the Right to Repair – Here’s how it helps you

AutoZone is a leading distributor of automotive parts, spares, and car accessories in South Africa.

It believes that South African motorists should have as many options as possible when shopping for car parts – including aftermarket parts from non-OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers).

This is why it is a tier-one sponsor of Right to Repair South Africa, a non-profit organisation focused on promoting fair competition and more consumer choice in the local automotive market.

Right to Repair

Right to Repair was founded to help consumers get relief from the costly process of replacing automotive parts.

These costs are particularly high when purchasing original parts, and the organisation was therefore delighted when the Competition Commission implemented new guidelines in July 2021 that let South Africans use non-original spare parts for their vehicles.

These guidelines are critical to promoting competition within the local automotive industry and ultimately give customers access to cheaper prices and increased availability.

Importantly, the Competition Commission’s guidelines also hold non-original manufacturers to the same standard as OEMs to ensure there is no drop in part quality.

“It is no different to selecting a generic antibiotic. You get the same product, but at a cheaper price,” said Right to Repair CEO Kate Elliot.

South African entrepreneurs in the automotive sector also benefit significantly from the new guidelines, as they open the door for them to start their own aftermarket parts businesses.

“The Competition Commission’s new regulations pertaining to the automotive aftermarket present a golden opportunity for new and emerging automotive entrepreneurs to enter the sector,” said Elliott.

AutoZone

AutoZone, as a leading company in the automotive sector, is a firm supporter and sponsor of the Right to Repair initiative.

As South Africa’s leading privately-owned auto-parts distributor, AutoZone has over 200 stores nationwide. Whether you want to fix your vehicle, customise it, or upgrade it, there is an AutoZone store near you.

Each of its stores is a one-stop shop for performance parts, spare parts, aftermarket parts, and accessories.

Click here to learn more about AutoZone’s support of Right To Repair.

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