“When BPI started looking for a partner in China, we wanted a company that had vehicle repair expertise and management talent that would enable us to effectively duplicate our success in the U.S.,” said Overbeeke. “We found that the vehicle repair technology and service capabilities at Aoxing are first-class, plus they have a technician training center that is extremely supportive of this new program and its future success. With this combination, we have found the perfect partner for BPI to launch the Raybestos Braking System Safety Service program in Northeast China.”

Adapted to the aftermarket parts and services industry in China, the RBS Safety Service program is designed to provide repair workshops with a comprehensive value proposition of high-quality brake products, advanced brake safety maintenance know-how and excellent training resources for brake service professionals, BPI says.

“With an average vehicle age of nearly four years, the demand for vehicle maintenance and repair is expected to increase dramatically in the coming years and, with the number of vehicles per thousand people in China expected to triple by 2023, automotive service opportunities will grow exponentially,” said Ricky Wang, sales vice president and general manager, Asia Pacific for BPI. “The new RBS program not only provides premium brake products to Chinese installers, but also delivers professional training and a viable business model to these critically important small businesses in this emerging market.”

In addition to Overbeeke and Wang, many Chinese dignitaries were in attendance for the RBS Safety Service program kick-off ceremony, including Dazhi Zhang, chairman of the board of Aoxing Yue Xiu; Limin Lu, GM of Aoxing Yue Xiu franchise in Changchun; CPC Party Secretary Weimin Deng and district mayors of local government.