21st Cologne Aftersales Forum – Review

On September 24 and 25, 2025, the 21st Cologne Aftersales Forum took place in Cologne – an inspiring industry event that once again impressively demonstrated how diverse, dynamic, and forward-thinking the aftermarket truly is.

Our sincere thanks go to all participants and speakers for the lively exchange, the exciting discussions, and the many valuable insights that shaped this year’s forum.

The Aftermarket in Transition

Dipl.-Kfm. Eckhard Brandenburg (Wolk & Nikolic Aftersales Intelligence GmbH) opened the forum with a comprehensive overview of the current framework conditions and trends in the aftermarket. He highlighted market data and structures, changes in sales channels and business models, as well as the challenges ahead. His conclusion: The aftermarket is undergoing transformation – those who act flexibly and recognize new opportunities today will remain successful tomorrow.

From Spare Parts to Mobility Responsibility

Fotios Katsardis (Temot International Autoparts GmbH) spoke about the growing responsibility of wholesalers in a changing world. Under the title “From Spare Parts to System Solutions – and Further to Mobility Responsibility,” he illustrated how global dynamics, structural shifts, and sustainability aspects are reshaping the business – and what opportunities arise for future-proof business models.

Strategies for Tomorrow’s Mobility

Raik Rudat (MG Motor Deutschland GmbH) provided insights into the aftersales strategies of car manufacturers. He demonstrated how OEMs are adapting to new market conditions and what answers they offer to the technological and societal challenges of the coming years – a fascinating look into the strategic mindset of the manufacturers.

Automated Driving – A Challenge of the Century

One of the most anticipated presentations came from Prof. Dr. Adrian Zlocki (fka GmbH). Under the title “Automated Driving – A Challenge of the Century,” he asked why we want automated driving in the first place and analyzed the current state of the technology. He also offered an outlook on future developments – and raised the crucial question: what does all this mean for the aftermarket?

Artificial Intelligence in the Aftersales Business

Prof. Dr. Patrick Tichelmann (TH Köln / Detection X GmbH) explored how AI is transforming the aftersales business. In his presentation, he provided an overview of current tools and applications, showing both the potential and challenges of integrating AI into workshops, service processes, and parts management.

Managing Damage Digitally

Mark Alagna (Innovation Group GmbH) focused on “Claims and Workshop Management in the Age of Digitalization.” He explained how customer demands, processes, and economic frameworks are changing through digital transformation. With the platform Gateway, he also presented a concrete solution for efficient digital claims management.

Understanding Customer Needs

Michael Saitow (Alzura AG) discussed parts portals and online marketplaces in the automotive aftermarket. According to Saitow, e-commerce and multi-channel solutions have long been established success factors, but workshop and end-customer expectations continue to evolve. His presentation provided valuable insights into market trends, implications for IAM and OEM – and the platform Alzura.tyre24.com.

Trends and E-Mobility in the Aftermarket

The event concluded with a joint presentation by Frank Töbes and Hadia Gouider (NRF). Under the title “Trends in the Aftermarket – Opportunities and Case Studies,” they discussed current developments and presented a practical case study on e-mobility, showcasing the advantages and opportunities new technologies bring for manufacturers, distributors, and workshops alike.

Conclusion

The 21st Cologne Aftersales Forum 2025 once again proved how valuable personal exchange, expertise, and connected thinking are for the future of the automotive aftermarket. We thank all participants and already look forward to the next forum – with new ideas, new inspiration, and the same goal: shaping the future of the aftermarket together.