Ring set to illuminate aftermarket with strategic business revamp

Date: Monday 15 January 2024

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Ring Automotive set to illuminate the independent automotive aftermarket with strategic business revamp

Celebrating 50 years of excellence in the automotive industry

Ring Automotive, the supplier of premium quality automotive lighting and auto electrics, is gearing up to illuminate the independent automotive aftermarket with a strategic business revamp. The company, with an impressive track record of over 50 years in the industry, is committed to adapting to the ever-changing dynamics of the independent aftermarket.

Under the leadership of Managing Director, Andy Gratton, who took charge in July 2023 after serving as Finance Director for three years, Ring Automotive is intensifying its customer-centric approach. Andy has spent a considerable amount of time engaging with customers to ensure that Ring remains dedicated to their evolving needs, building on the success of the last five decades.

In a decisive move to align the business with the changing landscape of the automotive aftermarket, Andy has restructured the Ring sales teams. Phil Donnelly has been promoted to the role of Sales Director UK & Ireland, where he will oversee all UK aftermarket sales channels.

Simultaneously, Jeremy Rochfort has been appointed as the International Key Accounts Manager (IKAM) within the European region of ams-OSRAM. This strategic move aims to enhance collaboration with OSRAM on a pan-European level and drive account management for customers operating across multiple European countries.

Andy remarked, "Both Phil and Jeremy have contributed significantly to Ring during their time with the company. These changes create a single point of sales leadership in our UK organisation while increasing collaboration with OSRAM on a pan-European level."

Alongside these changes, the team reporting to Phil has been reshaped, with Keith Booth promoted to the role of Head of Field Sales. Ring has invested in their Area Sales team  and, as such, Keith is responsible for seven Area Sales Managers across the UK & Ireland. Keith’s experience in the UK Aftermarket will play a crucial role in strengthening Ring's sales force.

Ring Automotive is also delighted to announce the addition of Dan O'Brien, who joins the company as the Head of Trade Key Accounts, reporting directly to Phil. Dan brings a wealth of experience in the UK automotive aftermarket, further fortifying Ring's strategic position.

Dan James who has worked as a Key Account Manager in the Retail Business Unit has been promoted to Head of Retail and will take overall responsibility for the Retail channel, reporting into Phil.

Andy expressed, "In 2024, Ring will celebrate its 50th anniversary of trading, and while we have enjoyed tremendous success in the automotive market, the changes are necessary to ensure that Ring is well-placed to focus on its customers and varied markets for the next 50 years."

As Ring enters its second half-century, the company is dedicated to improving road safety, driving profitable growth for its customers, and providing an exciting and developmental environment for its people. The year 2024 promises to be an exciting chapter in Ring's history, culminating in the celebration of its 50th anniversary. As part of the ams-OSRAM group, Ring is well-placed to invest in the UK aftermarket and continue its mission to provide a world-class service to its UK & Ireland customer base.

Andy commented finally that Ring have other exciting changes to communicate imminently linked both to their Aftermarket and Vehicle Conversion businesses, more details to follow imminently.

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