NEXUS Automotive International (N!), the global automotive aftermarket alliance, has taken a major step forward in Africa with the establishment of NEXUS Automotive Algeria, its first national organization on the continent.
The new local organization, with headquarters in Algiers, will be officially launched on May 16, and will be comprised of A&M Distribution, DOUADI Automotive, HABCHI Auto Distribution and SIAD Automobile Group. These four NEXUS members are some of the most important spare parts and equipment distributors for cars and trucks in Algeria. Each group has large retailer networks in all of its main cities, giving NEXUS Automotive Algeria an immediate national dimension, the organization says.
Gaël Escribe, CEO of NEXUS Automotive International, said, “We are very pleased with the foundation of this new organization, which underlines both the ambition of the leading distributors involved as well as their involvement in the professionalization and structuring of the aftermarket industry in their country.”
Mohammed Siad, president of Siad, who will head up the new group, said, “To join this international group gives us the perfect means to resist a random evolution of the market. Working together, we can take a strategic approach, drive innovation and make the most of business opportunities in the aftermarket.”
NEXUS says one of the first steps will be choosing a manager to take charge of supplier relations, manage the network’s operations and coordinate strategic projects. Meetings will be held on Monday and Tuesday, May 23-24, to update suppliers on overall plans for the short- and the mid-term.
NEXUS Automotive Algeria has made training a priority as well, through the development of N! ACADEMY.
Abderrezak Akroune, CEO of A&M Distribution, said, “We intend to develop new concepts in purchasing and logistics, as well as on the commercial side, as we have fixed the objective to structure and grow. To achieve this, very specific guidance is necessary.”
NEXUS Automotive Algeria will work closely with international training provider, European Institute of Purchasing Management (EIPM).
Fayçal Douadi, CEO of Douadi Automotive, said, “It is critical that our training programs are of the highest caliber, as we wish to ensure that the professional competency of our managers at all levels aligns with the organization’s development.”
The meetings also will consider how best to introduce the N! private label, DR!VE+, which is positioned to offer quality automotive parts at attractive prices while countering the spread of cheap inferior products, according to the group.
Redjem Habchi, CEO of Habchi, said, “The Algerian market cannot only absorb premium ranked parts when the minimum salary is 200 euros (approximately $227 USD). The DR!VE+ solution, developed in partnership with N! suppliers, will definitely facilitate access to new market segments.”
The new organization said it also is considering setting up garage networks for cars and trucks, under the NEXUSAUTO and NEXUSTRUCK brands, which will follow an audit of the technical training needs of repairmen and mechanics in the country.
In conclusion, Escribe commented, “I’m delighted but not surprised that NEXUS Automotive Algeria is taking shape this rapidly. Through the N! ACADEMY, NEXUSAUTO, NEXUSTRUCK and DR!VE+ projects, we are perfectly positioned to support our new members in their strategic objectives, which they have voiced very clearly. It’s very exciting and in line with our core philosophy of bringing innovation and entrepreneurship to the aftermarket while creating value for our members.”
