BM Catalysts on Navigating Change: Insight from 18 Years in the The automotive aftermarket

The automotive aftermarket is experiencing rapid transformation, driven by evolving emissions standards, technological shifts, and changing customer expectations. BM Catalysts, Europe’s leading independent manufacture of hot-end emissions products, has been at the forefront of adapting to these changes. Underpinned by investment, innovation and an unwavering focus of customer needs.

Rohit Patel, Regional Sales Manager for BM Catalysts, has witnessed the automotive evolution first-hand. Having been with BM Catalysts for 18 years, Rohit reflected on the market shifts by saying:

“It has always been about range, quality, availability, and service. BM offers this to its customer base at the highest level.

“We’ve adapted to change by continually expanding our range, maintaining exceptional availability, and supporting customers through training, aftersales service, quality products, and targeted marketing.”

From the introduction of type approval in 2009, to challenges posed by Brexit, BM Catalysts has demonstrated resilience and foresight. Rohit said: “The company has always looked ahead, in most cases, we’ve been prepared.

“We dealt with the introduction of type approval in 2009 very well, in terms of our communication to our customer base. We adapted quickly to ensure minimal disruption for our customers, even during significant industry upheavals.”

One of the biggest challenges ahead lies in addressing increasingly complex emission control devices developed by vehicle manufacturers to meet stringent environmental standards – all while maintaining a competitive price point for the aftermarket. Rohit sees BM Catalysts as well-positioned:

“The investments made back into the business over the years – in both product innovation and operational capacity – have made sure of this. Staying ahead of the competition requires understanding the market, anticipating change, and having the tools to respond.”

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, BM Catalysts believes face-to-face customer engagement will remain essential, even as digital channels expand. “It’s about finding the right balance between personal contact and efficient communication through tools like Teams or email,” Rohit said.

Rohit’s advice for newcomers to the industry reflects BM Catalysts’ own values:

“It’s a challenging but rewarding industry. If you’re looking to work for a forward-thinking, family-run business where your input is valued – why not BM?”