A Shift in Consumer Priorities
The European automotive aftermarket is undergoing a significant transformation. According to the latest 'Aftermarket Pulse 2025' report from Roland Berger, price sensitivity is driving a massive shift in how enthusiasts and daily drivers maintain their vehicles. A staggering 57% of consumers now prefer Independent Aftermarket (IAM) parts over Original Equipment (OE) brands—a 14 percentage point increase compared to 2024. For those of us at LJ-Automotive, this confirms what we see daily: drivers are looking for high-quality, cost-effective alternatives to expensive dealer-supplied components.
Why IAM is Winning
This trend is particularly pronounced among owners of older vehicles and those in rural areas where maintenance costs are a primary concern. By choosing reputable aftermarket brands—such as our range of coilovers from KW or Bilstein, or alloy wheels from BBS and AXE Wheels—drivers can often achieve superior performance or aesthetics compared to factory-standard parts, all while keeping their budget in check. The data suggests that workshops are also increasingly recommending these non-branded or independent alternatives to meet customer expectations for both value and reliability.
The Takeaway
As the market moves away from the 'dealer-only' mindset, the opportunity for enthusiasts to upgrade their cars with premium aftermarket components has never been better. Whether you are looking to refresh your suspension with a JOM kit or upgrade your styling with Motordrome Design spoilers, the independent sector is proving that you don't need to pay a premium for the manufacturer's logo to get top-tier performance.
Source: Roland Berger (https://www.rolandberger.com/en/Insights/Publications/Automotive-Aftermarket-Pulse-2025.html)
