GSO backs CCPC crackdown on restrictions against independents

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) in Ireland has issued a warning to the motor industry following reports that consumers are being discouraged from using independent garages for servicing and repairs.

Garage Services Online (GSO), a digital lead generation service for independent garages, has welcomed the move, which reinforces garages’ rights to compete fairly and gives consumers the freedom to choose where their vehicle is maintained.

“This is an important step in protecting the long-term future of independent garages,” said Jim Lang, Managing Director at Garage Services Online. “From the conversations we’ve had with garage owners across the UK and Ireland, it’s clear that independents have faced a steady stream of pressure from main dealers trying to steer customers back to their networks. In many cases, it’s been done under the misleading claim that using an independent garage could void the vehicle’s warranty.”

The CCPC has confirmed that practices such as restricting access to essential diagnostic tools or misleading consumers about their warranty rights may breach competition law. The regulator has committed to taking enforcement action where illegal conduct is identified.

Independent garages in Ireland are encouraged to report any anti-competitive restrictions they encounter by contacting the CCPC’s antitrust unit.