What is the ADF?

In 1990 the Motor Factors Association (MFA) changed its structure to allow manufacturers and importers of vehicle parts to become full members and the Automotive Distribution Federation was born. The MFA had originally been formed in 1930. Today motor factors or distributors still form the largest section of the ADF membership.  In 2001 the ADF became a Registered Company Limited by Guarantee.

Members' interests are protected and promoted by the activities of the ADF, with their views and opinions clearly expressed to the various bodies whose activities affect the day to day running of an aftermarket business.

The ADF has regular contact with a wide variety of government departments: DTI; DEFRA; DES; plus the many statutory agencies: Health & Safety Executive; Environment Agency; Office of Fair Trading etc.

In addition, the media and other opinion formers are kept in touch with the Independent Automotive Aftermarket's opinions.

On the international front, the ADF is a member of FIGIEFA, the international association of independent parts distributors, and its European sub-section, CLEDIPA.  Through them we have direct access to the European Commission and other international bodies. We also enjoy good relations with our colleagues in the USA, Canada, Australia, South America and South Africa.

The ADF provides support to its members in a variety of ways, some of which are described elsewhere on this website. Some services are provided free as part of membership.  Others, which are sourced from reputable organisations, allow members to enjoy significant discounts off the normal commercial rates for particular services.

The ADF is not a buying group. We do not take commission on members’ sales or purchases, and do not become involved in the negotiation between a motor factor and their supplier. Our work is funded primarily by members’ subscriptions. We are, therefore, truly independent - an important point when speaking to government. We can, however, assist members who experience problems and often act as arbitrator in disputes when requested by both parties.

These tasks have to be done on behalf of those in our section of the automotive industry. There is no other body established, or qualified, to do it. The ADF supports the manufacturers, importers and wholesaler/factors of parts.

Potential members often see the name of the ADF in articles about the trade, sometimes with the name of particular officials or members quoted. But it appears to outsiders that the ADF is a body, apparently self-sufficient, determining actions by virtue of its existence.  Nothing could be further from the truth. The ADF is its members! Members pay for the ADF's activities through their subscriptions. Members express their views through the members they elect to committees or the ADF council.

Council members represent either Regions, Product Sectors, Specialist Sections (CV & Bodyshop Supplies) and National Independent Factor groups. A true cross-section of the Industry - Working for the Industry.

The small, but efficient permanent staff look after members' affairs on a day to day basis, organise events, publicise members' opinions, and provide an accessible contact point for members' enquiries.

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