Amid the gloom of the European economic crisis in 2012, one bright spot emerged. Thanks to the country’s oil reserves, the Russian economy is growing. Its gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate exceeded European and global GDP growth rates.

According to “An overview of the Russian and CIS automotive industry” by Ernst & Young, Russia’s economic health is creating a boom in consumer spending, especially in automotive sales. Russia’s automotive market now is Europe’s second largest after Germany. The Association of European Businesses notes that Russia is approaching the 3 million mark in auto sales and that it’s expected to surpass Germany as the largest car market in Europe.

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In 2012, major carmakers announced expansions in Russia. Ford, Renault and GM, and Volkswagen signed agreements with the Russian government to increase local production, build engine factories and invest in research and development. In December, GM announced it will invest $1 billion in Russia over the next five years.

The Ernst & Young report notes that Russia’s supplier sector has restructured, creating new investment opportunities. Its retail segment has been reshaping through more efficient operations, consolidation and market expansion.

Since its founding in 1924, the AASA Overseas Automotive Council (OAC) has promoted the export of North American automotive aftermarket components and products into global markets. Its networking events throughout the year bring together aftermarket suppliers with buyers from around the world – and in 2013, its schedule may include a trade mission to Moscow and St. Petersburg in late August!

Working with the U.S. Commercial Service, the U.S. Department of Commerce and Messe Frankfurt, OAC is investigating a potential trade mission held in conjunction with Automechanika Moscow. Early plans include one-on-one meetings with Russian customers, tours of local distributors and networking events. The Council is moving quickly to finalize plans for this event so that participants can secure visas and other needed documentation for the trip.

OAC’s goal is to be the industry’s “go to” source for networking and knowledge on global business. Its events and initiatives make the OAC organization a valuable tool for companies looking to expand their sales footprint into international markets.

The OAC is planning other outstanding networking events in 2013. Visit its web site [http://www.aftermarketsuppliers.org/Councils/OAC] for all the latest details and registration.

About the Author

Dan Pike is the vice president of membership and member services at the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) and group executive of AASA’s international aftermarket council, the Overseas Automotive Council (OAC).

OAC promotes the sale in foreign markets of automotive and heavy duty products manufactured in North America. Those products include components, accessories, chemicals, hand and power tools, service maintenance and repair equipment, and paint and body supplies for both cars and trucks. OAC has more than 350 members in more than 40 countries. More information is available through its Web site, www.oac-intl.org.

AASA (www.aftermarketsuppliers.org) exclusively serves manufacturers of aftermarket components, tools and equipment, and related products. It is a recognized industry change agent – promoting a collaborative industry environment, providing a forum to address issues and serving as a valued resource for members. “AASA, The Voice for the Automotive Aftermarket Supplier Industry”

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