What milestones did ELTA Automotive hit in 2024?
ELTA Automotive Marketing Manager, Tim Brotherton, is in the hotseat to tackle our questions about the company’s experiences in 2024, and the state of play in the industry.
Q. Hi Tim, can you update our readers on any major developments or milestones ELTA Automotive achieved in 2024?
A. “Undoubtedly, the most significant milestone for ELTA Automotive in 2024 was our strategic partnership with Halfords, the UK’s leading retailer of motoring and cycling products. While the deal was technically finalised in late 2023, 2024 saw our collaboration truly come to life. The shelves of Halfords’ extensive store network now feature Lucas bulbs – exclusively licensed to ELTA Automotive in the UK and Europe – alongside the brand-new, 100% plastic-free Halfords own-brand bulb range, also supplied by ELTA.
“With prime positioning in nearly 400 stores, Lucas has once again secured its place at the forefront of British motorists’ minds, reaffirming its leadership in the aftermarket lighting sector. This partnership not only strengthens the visibility of our products but also aligns with the growing demand for sustainable and high-quality automotive solutions.”
Q. How would ELTA describe the condition of the automotive aftermarket at present and its position within it?
A. “The automotive aftermarket is currently navigating what could be its greatest challenge to date. With the impending ban on combustion engines, many in the industry are preparing for a gradual decline in demand for the products that have traditionally been at the core of our sector. However, as the saying goes, ‘when one door closes, another opens’. At ELTA, we see this as an opportunity. We’re already positioning ourselves to meet the evolving needs of an electrified or hydrogen-powered vehicle parc, developing components that align with future demands.
“That said, in the present climate – amid economic uncertainty and a cost-of-living crisis – the aftermarket is proving to be more resilient and vital than ever. An aging vehicle parc, combined with motorists increasingly focused on value, has created a perfect storm of opportunity for suppliers like us. Our longstanding aftermarket brands, built over many years, are thriving as drivers prioritise cost-effective repairs and maintenance over new vehicle purchases. This moment, while challenging, highlights the enduring importance of the aftermarket and the adaptability of companies like ELTA.”
Part two of this Q&A to follow!
