Alliance Automotive UK

Alliance Automotive UK, a parts distributor for the UK aftermarket

Alliance Automotive UK (AAUK) presents itself as a distributor of parts for cars and commercial vehicles. Its activity is focused on the aftermarket and it supplies garages, franchise networks and public services across the UK and Ireland. The company is part of Alliance Automotive Group (AAG), a group which in turn has belonged to Genuine Parts Company (GPC) since 2017.

Distribution network and logistics capacity

The company describes a logistics network made up of more than 300 local stores, 20 regional distribution centres (RDCs) and a national distribution centre of approximately one million square feet. This infrastructure is supported by a workforce of more than 6,000 people. The business model prioritises maintaining an extensive and readily available product range to uphold the quality of its service offerings.

AAUK's UK subsidiaries, dedicated to parts distribution, have a national network comprising 20 RDCs and 5 NDCs (national distribution centres) that seek to ensure availability and breadth of range for the UK aftermarket. These subsidiaries are identified by the branding and livery of AAUK's trading groups and have access to business units and commercial terms that allow them to offer their customers exclusive private label brands, as well as original equipment (OE) quality or equivalent suppliers.

Brands and trading groups

The site lists the following brands: NAPA, Apec, Platinum, BTN Turbo, Cambiare, Carlyle Tools, ExoPro, PMA, Techmate and Fahren. In the area of trading groups and networks, it includes GROUPAUTO, United Aftermarket Network and CAAR. The company also mentions its digital and e-commerce business areas, with Tayna, Parts In Motion and Workshop Pro, as well as the garage networks NAPA Auto Parts, Autocare, United Garage Service, Top Truck, NexDrive and Approved Garages.

Group structure and acquisitions

Alliance Automotive Group was further strengthened when Genuine Parts Company acquired the business in 2017, giving rise to what they describe as the largest automotive parts company in the world. GPC, founded in 1928, presents itself as a global service organisation specialising in the distribution of automotive and industrial replacement parts, with more than 10,700 locations in 17 countries and more than 60,000 employees.

AAG's acquisition strategy, according to its own description, is based on allowing businesses to keep a level of autonomy to enable them to build on their previous success. As an example, they cite the acquisitions of FPS Distribution, Apec Braking and BTN Turbo, which kept their own corporate identities. AAUK's subsidiaries, although acquired, retain their business names within the organisation.

European presence

AAG serves the automotive aftermarket in Europe through a network of distributors, both company-owned and independent affiliates. The company states that it has more than 1,000 points of sale in France, more than 800 in the UK and Ireland, more than 70 in Germany, more than 50 in Portugal and Spain, 220 in Poland and 200 stores in the Netherlands and Belgium.

History of the UK subsidiaries

Alliance Automotive UK's subsidiaries were founded in 1998. Initially a network of two branches distributing vehicle components, the business has now grown to over 200 locations servicing customers with parts, accessories and ancillaries all on a same-day basis. The company attributes this level of service and support to its association with the term 'market leader' in the automotive aftermarket, and states that it constantly strives to improve its product and service offering.

Location and contact

2 Eskan Court, Campbell Park, Milton Keynes MK9 4AN · Telephone: +44 1908 921550