AM and Sewells Information & Research will put the potential for growth in the UK's lucrative aftermarket sector under the spotlight at a key conference in the spring.

'Aftermarket: the £14bn prize' will explore the developing battle between franchised and independent repairers following changes to block exemption.

The conference, sponsored by Shell Helix Motor Oils, will be staged at the Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon, Warwickshire on Wednesday, March 26. Tickets cost £150+VAT until March 7, then £175+VAT.

Under the revised block exemption rules, designed to boost competition between quality companies, independent operators will be able to compete to take aftersales business away from dealers.

Stephen Briers, group editor, AM/Sewells, says: “The aftermarket is worth £14bn a year. Enterprising companies will invest to win the approval of manufacturers seeking the best deal for their customers.”

The conference will be chaired by Dr John Wormald, founding partner of Autopolis, the automotive consultancy that produced a report on Block Exemption for the EC.

Chris Jeffries, chairman of parts importer ADL, and Fred Maguire, Lookers chairman and president of the Retail Motor Industry, are among the confirmed speakers.

For more details, or to book a place, call Sue White (01733 468 272) or email (sue.white@emap.com).