The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) in the UK is celebrating 85 years of trading, in which time it has successfully supported the entire distribution aftermarket of suppliers, motor factors and garages with protecting, strengthening and promoting the automotive industry.

The IAAF started trading in 1930 as the Motor Factors Association (MFA), from what was then known as the parts wholesaler section of the SMMT. In 1990 parts manufacturers, suppliers and importers were appointed into membership and the association became the Automotive Distribution Federation, then becoming a limited company in 2000.

In 2010, with the appointment of independent garages into membership and a broadening mandate to address all issues of the automotive aftermarket, the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) was formed.

Throughout its history the IAAF has been the only trade association that lobbies on behalf of the independent sector specifically on parts. The federation’s aim is to promote all aspects of the aftermarket and support every part of a member’s business and provide beneficial services.
Wendy Williamson, IAAF chief executive, said: “Reaching 85 years trading in any business is a major achievement and I would like to thank all past and present council members, presidents and aftermarket personnel who have given up their time to support the activities of the IAAF.”
In recent years, the IAAF has taken its message further and wider than ever before with the introduction of network meetings and the largest automotive aftermarket event of the year – the IAAF conference and annual awards dinner.

Going forward, the IAAF is actively growing its members as it embarks on countering arguably the greatest number of threats to the automotive aftermarket for many years.

Williamson explains: “The advent of vehicle telematics / eCall represents a real threat to the automotive aftermarket and it is our job to turn this into a fair and equal opportunity for the trade. Add to this the ongoing efforts by the IAAF in countering misinformation on block exemption and fighting for access to technical information, then the federation has a very active programme to support the independent aftermarket.”

A special commemorative IAAF artwork has been commissioned to celebrate the IAAF’s 85 years, available as a framed poster for only £75.