This will be the seventh time that Messe Frankfurt’s world famous Automechanika brand has hosted a trade fair for the automotive aftermarket in Johannesburg.

For the first time this year, all eight of the RMI’s constituent associations will participate in the event.

The Automotive Remanufacturers’ Association (ARA) will host a “Nuts and Bolts” conference, while the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA) will host its annual National Executive Conference.

The RMI will be represented with its own stand in Hall 6, which will be focusing on digitalisation and the “Value of Belonging”. It will also host its annual Board meeting during the event.

“The last two years have been extremely challenging for many businesses in the sector, in particular the small business owners,” commented Jakkie Olivier, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the RMI.

“The RMI has had to manage the past two difficult years, which have been marked by disruption as well as having to face some major changes and adapting to new and unique challenges.

“Throughout this time, the RMI and its associations, have managed to stay focused and continued to perform exceptionally well. The last two years have taught us the importance of effective communication, of collaboration with peers and colleagues and the need to digitise many of our activities. We have needed to adapt and innovate to remain relevant and grow our businesses.

“Inspiring our employees and embracing the “human essence” remain critical. We fully appreciate the importance of networking and the significant role it plays in our business and we welcome the opportunity to do so.”