Automakers act to repair aftersales, seek to edge out roadside garages

With the goods and services tax levelling the field between the organised and the unorganised sector, the roadside garage is making way for branded outlets

As cars become technologically more complex, the aftercare market, which has been the preserve of independent garages so far, has started to draw the attention of big players. The roadside mechanic wielding a wrench is slowly making way for original equipment manufacturers, who are sensing opportunity in organising the unorganised players for long-term growth and deeper engagement with customers.

Aftersales care is set to become a Rs 750-billion industry by 2020, from Rs 560 billion currently. There are 230 million vehicles on the road, and counting. Bulk of these are under seven years old and once they get older, the