Ford's UK unit is set to launch Parts Plus, a direct sales channel for trade parts.
"As market leader in the UK, Ford becomes the first manufacturer to offer a full range of parts directly to independent repairers," the automaker said.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Discover B2B Marketing That Performs
Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.
In addition to supplying Ford and Motorcraft parts, Parts Plus will also provide access to the new Omnicraft range which includes highly competitive products and prices for all major UK brands.
Operated by Ford, the 84 Part Plus Centres planned will have defined customer focused territories and improved service levels. The first centre opens this summer with each selected and created to ensure there is customer service continuity from the current Ford dealer partners.
Focused on meeting the needs of trade customers, the centres will hold tailored, competitively priced stock of genuine parts, supplied through a reliable and regular distribution service.
Customers will also receive a wide range of benefits including technical support on how to repair Ford vehicles and marketing advice on how to grow their business in an increasingly complex and competitive market.
Ford has also announced the appointment of Richard Allott as operations director for Parts Plus. He joins from Ford Retail where he has been TrustFirst Parts' operations director for the last five years.
