Automechanika Frankfurt Hosts International Right to Repair Conference
Representatives of automotive aftermarket associations from around the world gathered on Wednesday at Automechanika Frankfurt for a Right to Repair Global Meeting, as shared in a press release from the Auto Care Association.
Jointly hosted by FIGIEFA and the Auto Care Association, the meeting brought together organizations from Europe, North and South America, Africa, Asia, and Oceania to review progress, exchange practical experiences, and discuss the next phase of Right to Repair advocacy.
With the theme of “Maintaining Engagement and Momentum”, discussions at the show focused on developments across national Right to Repair campaigns, the impact of technological advancements on vehicle repair, and the resulting challenges facing independent operators. Participants also discussed how organizations can sustain engagement as campaigns evolve, and how the global community can work together to address shared issues.
Associations and regions represented at the event included the following:
• Argentina (AFAC)
• Australia (Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association)
• Brazil (Automotive Aftermarket Alliance Brazil)
• Canada (Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA Canada))
• Chile (CAREP)
• Colombia (ASOPARTES)
• South Africa (MIWA, Right to Repair South Africa)
• United States (Auto Care Association, ETI, MEMA)
• Uruguay (CTMA)
• Venezuela (CANIDRA)
• European and international organisations including ADPA, CLEPA, EGEA, FIA Region I, FIGIEFA, GVA, and
Insurance Europe.
Newcomers: This year’s meeting also welcomed EMPTA, the Engineering & Motor Parts Traders Association of Malaysia.
At the event, delegates shared updates on the status of Right to Repair initiatives in their respective jurisdictions. ACA shared that the maturity of campaigns varied significantly between markets, but participants reported continued progress worldwide, ranging from early-awareness building campaigns and coalition development to legislative proposals, regulatory reviews and enforcement efforts.
Additionally, participants shared how their work has branched beyond traditional repair activities and now involves technical information, telematics, parts coding, and the enforcement of repair rights. A dedicated session on technology and data access examined how electrification, connectivity, and digitalisation are changing the aftermarket landscape and what independent operators will need to remain competitive in the years ahead.
Examples of successful advocacy campaigns, research initiatives, awareness-raising activities and coalition-building efforts were also shared at the event. The discussion highlighted the importance of evidence-based advocacy, effective communication, and sustained stakeholder engagement in advancing Right to Repair objectives.
Looking ahead, the Right to Repair Global community will continue working together to promote regulatory solutions that support innovation, consumer choice, sustainability, SME competitiveness, and fair access to the increasingly digital vehicle ecosystem. Participants agreed to maintain close cooperation after meeting in Frankfurt and to continue sharing experiences, research, and policy developments as campaigns advance around the world.
