What is the “Automotive Aftermarket”?

Let’s talk about one of the most vital, innovative and diverse sectors in the automotive world — and a seriously smart place to build your career.

So, what exactly is the aftermarket?

In simple terms, the automotive aftermarket is everything that happens to a vehicle after it leaves the dealership forecourt.

This covers parts manufacturing, parts and accessories supply, tools and equipment, distribution, retailing, repair, maintenance, upgrades, tech platforms and data solutions — essentially the entire supply chain keeping vehicles running and in tip top condition.

“And in today’s world? It’s not just about spanners and spark plugs — the aftermarket now spans into IT, SaaS, data analytics and emerging tech solutions what a great space to work.”

🔧 Why is the aftermarket important to motorists?

✅ Cost Savings: Aftermarket parts often offer quality alternatives to premium priced branded OEM (vehicle manufacturer) parts.
✅ Choice & Variety: Motorists get a huge range of brands and options, often at keener price points.
✅ Customisation: Whether it’s performance upgrades, aesthetic mods or smarter tech, the aftermarket lets people make their vehicles their own, offering choice.
✅ Keeping Older Cars Alive: OEMs often cease producing parts after a few years — the aftermarket keeps older vehicles on the road, through range expanse and “all makes” parts programmes.

🌍 How big is the automotive aftermarket?
In a word: Massive.

Globally worth hundreds of billions each year. *
UK aftermarket £21 billion + annually. **
US aftermarket? $300 billion + per year. ***

The UK is the 4th largest aftermarket in Europe and employs over 345,000 people** in a wide range of roles.

🚀 So, why wouldn’t you want a career in this thriving sector?

There’s a role for everyone — from hands-on tech jobs to cutting-edge digital careers.

💼 Possible career paths:

Parts manufacturing & distribution
Tools & equipment supply
Diagnostics & technology
Paint, body repair & detailing
Data, pricing & procurement
Sales, marketing & account management
Supply chain & logistics
Product management & cataloguing
IT platforms & SaaS development
Social media & marcomms
Technical authoring & training
And yes — everything from apprentice to CEO.

⚙️ The aftermarket is a powerhouse of innovation, opportunity & job security.

This is a sector that constantly evolves, blending traditional automotive know-how with cutting-edge tech, data and customer-centric solutions.

✅ Stable
✅ Diverse
✅ Future-proof

If you want a career in an industry that’s essential to the economy and embraces the future — the automotive aftermarket is calling and we offer variety and diverse career paths for everyone, every gender, every age.