Automark

Dear Readers In the ever-evolving automotive industry, dealerships are constantly seeking innovative strategies to optimize profitability and sustainability. One such approach gaining momentum is the concept of multi-brand automobile dealerships—retail spaces that offer vehicles from multiple manufacturers under one roof. This model presents several financial and operational advantages, enabling dealerships to enhance their revenue streams, improve customer experience, and achieve greater economies of scale. This article delves into the dynamics, benefits, and impact of multi-brand dealerships on overall profitability, supplemented with real-world examples of successful implementation.

The Dynamics of Multi-Brand Automobile Dealerships

A multi-brand automobile dealership operates by securing agreements with multiple Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to sell a variety of vehicle brands within the same dealership network. The dealership must adhere to each brand’s specific guidelines, from showroom layouts to marketing requirements. These dealerships often categorize their showrooms into distinct sections per brand while leveraging shared services, such as aftersales support, financing, and administration.

Key operational dynamics include:

• Brand-Specific Compliance: Ensuring each brand’s identity is maintained while optimizing resource utilization.
• Inventory Management: Balancing stock levels across multiple brands to align with demand.
• Salesforce Training: Equipping sales and service personnel with expertise across various brands.
• Customer Segmentation: Catering to a diverse customer base with varying brand preferences.
• Aftermarket Services: Establishing a robust service network that meets the distinct requirements of multiple manufacturers.

Advantages of Multi-Brand Automobile Dealerships

1. Diversification of Revenue Streams

One of the primary advantages of multi-brand dealerships is the ability to diversify revenue sources. Offering multiple brands allows dealers to tap into various customer segments, from budget-conscious buyers to luxury seekers. This model helps mitigate risks associated with market fluctuations affecting a single brand.

2. Increased Footfall and Customer Retention

A broader selection of brands attracts a wider customer base, increasing showroom traffic. Potential buyers exploring different options within a single dealership are more likely to make a purchase. Moreover, customers who trust the dealership’s service center for one brand may be inclined to consider other brands available within the same network.

3. Improved Inventory Turnover

A dealership that stocks multiple brands has greater flexibility in managing inventory. For example, if one brand experiences slower sales, the dealership can offset this with the sales of another brand’s popular models. This balanced approach optimizes inventory turnover and reduces holding costs.

4. Economies of Scale and Cost Efficiency

By sharing operational expenses such as marketing, administration, and aftersales support across multiple brands, multi-brand dealerships benefit from economies of scale. Consolidating overhead costs enables higher profitability without significantly increasing operational expenses.

5. Enhanced Competitive Edge

In an industry where competition is fierce, a multi-brand approach helps dealerships stand out. Customers prefer dealerships where they can compare multiple options before making a decision. This positioning fosters a competitive advantage over single-brand dealerships that might not offer the same variety.

6. Stronger Negotiating Power with OEMs

Multi-brand dealers often possess greater bargaining power when negotiating terms with manufacturers. OEMs recognize the dealership’s ability to push multiple brands and may offer better incentives, promotional support, and inventory financing options.

7. Resilience Against Market Downturns

During economic downturns, demand for vehicles from a single brand may decline. However, with a diversified portfolio, multi-brand dealerships can continue generating revenue by capitalizing on brands that experience steady demand. This diversification ensures business continuity even in challenging market conditions.

Case Studies of Successful Multi-Brand Dealerships

1. Penske Automotive Group (United States and International)

Penske Automotive Group is a prime example of a successful multi-brand dealership model. Operating over 300 dealerships across multiple countries, Penske represents brands such as BMW, Audi, Toyota, and Mercedes-Benz. Their strategy focuses on premium customer service, efficient inventory management, and strong OEM partnerships, contributing to consistent profitability.

2. Inchcape PLC (United Kingdom and International)

Inchcape, a UK-based automotive retailer, represents brands like Jaguar Land Rover, Lexus, and Volkswagen. Their multi-brand strategy allows them to cater to luxury and mass-market segments simultaneously, creating a balanced revenue stream. Inchcape’s robust online presence and customer-centric service model further amplify its success.

3. Al-Futtaim Automotive (Middle East & Asia)

Al-Futtaim Automotive, based in the UAE, manages multiple automotive brands, including Toyota, Honda, and Volvo. Their approach integrates shared service centers and aftersales support, leading to cost efficiencies and enhanced customer satisfaction. By leveraging strategic partnerships with OEMs, Al-Futtaim has maintained strong market positioning.

4. Group 1 Automotive (United States)

Group 1 Automotive operates a network of dealerships with multiple brands, focusing on a mix of luxury and mainstream vehicles. Their success lies in effective customer relationship management (CRM) systems, which help them personalize interactions across different brand segments.

Challenges and Considerations

While the multi-brand model offers substantial benefits, it also presents unique challenges:

• Brand Identity Management: Maintaining distinct brand identities within a shared dealership space can be complex.
• OEM Relations: Managing relationships with multiple manufacturers requires balancing different contractual obligations and compliance requirements.
• Training Complexity: Sales and service teams must be well-versed in various brand specifications and technological advancements.
• Initial Capital Investment: Establishing a multi-brand dealership often requires significant upfront investment in infrastructure, personnel, and marketing.

Conclusion:

The multi-brand automobile dealership model is an effective strategy for enhancing profitability and long-term sustainability. By diversifying revenue streams, optimizing operational costs, and enhancing customer experience, dealerships can position themselves for success in a competitive automotive market. However, to fully capitalize on this approach, dealerships must implement strong management practices, invest in workforce training, and foster strong relationships with OEMs.

As demonstrated by successful dealership groups worldwide, a well-executed multi-brand strategy can yield significant financial and operational benefits. With the right balance of inventory management, customer engagement, and cost control, multi-brand dealerships can drive long-term growth and profitability, making them an attractive business model for the future of automotive retail.

This exclusive article has been published in Automark’s March-2025 printed and digital edition. Written by Aqeel Bashir

BYD, the world’s largest manufacturer of New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) in partnership with Mega Motor Company (MMC) has commenced vehicle deliveries in Pakistan marking a major milestone in the country’s transition toward sustainable mobility. Starting today, customers in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad will begin to receive their much-anticipated BYD vehicles, signifying the brand’s strong commitment to the local market. BYD & MMC aim to deliver up to 100 vehicles within the first 48 hours of starting operations.

MMC has set up BYD’s Experience & Care centers at key locations in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi, providing customers with a premium experience to explore and engage with the brand’s cutting-edge New Energy Vehicle technology.

The launch of these centers and the rollout of SEAL & ATTO 3 reflects BYD and MMC’s confidence in Pakistan’s rapidly evolving automotive landscape. As demand for New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) continues to rise, BYD & MMC aim to expand its footprint in the country by opening a total of 15 centers in 2025 further enhancing accessibility to sustainable mobility solutions.

Speaking on the occasion, Lei Jian, Country head of BYD Pakistan, said: “It is an honor to embark on this crucial development chapter in Pakistan. BYD has long been dedicated to fulfilling people’s aspirations for a better life through technological innovation. We firmly believe that BYD’s new energy vehicles and technologies are destined to make even greater contributions to Pakistan’s green development journey.

Danish Khaliq, VP Sales & Strategy of Mega Motor Company, stated: “We are thrilled to begin vehicle deliveries across Pakistan. This marks the beginning of an exciting journey for BYD and our customers, as we introduce world-class NEV technology to drive Pakistan toward a cleaner and more sustainable future.”
With this significant step, BYD continues to reinforce its global mission of revolutionizing the automotive industry by providing innovative and eco-friendly transportation solutions.

• Press Release

OMODA & JAECOO HAS THE COOPERATION WITH NEXGEN AUTO

Chevy Group and NexGen Auto Forge Strategic Partnership to Bring Omoda and Jaecoo New Energy Vehicles to Pakistan Chevy Group, a global leader in the automotive industry, and NexGen Auto, a prominent automotive distributor, are proud to announce their strategic partnership to introduce Omoda and Jaecoo-branded New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) in Pakistan.
This collaboration signifies a shared vision to drive innovation, sustainability, and advanced mobility solutions in one of South Asia’s most dynamic markets. With a commitment to redefining automotive standards, this partnership will bring cutting-edge NEVs equipped with state-of-the-art technology and eco-friendly powertrains.
The Omoda and Jaecoo brands are renowned for their contemporary designs, superior performance, and dedication to delivering a sustainable driving experience.
Speaking about the partnership, Mr.Chen Chunqing, Executive vice president of Chevy International, stated: “Chevy Group is thrilled to collaborate with NexGen Auto to enter the Pakistani market. This partnership is a testament to our mission of providing intelligent, sustainable, and premium mobility options to customers globally.
We are confident that Omoda and Jaecoo will set a new benchmark for New Energy Vehicles in Pakistan, [NexGen Auto Executive Name], [Designation], expressed enthusiasm about the alliance, saying: “NexGen Auto, vision aligns seamlessly with Chevy Group, innovative approach to automotive technology. Together, we aim to transform the Pakistani automotive landscape by introducing vehicles that not only meet international standards but also cater to the evolving preferences of local consumers.
The introduction of Omoda and Jaecoo NEVs is expected to contribute significantly to Pakistan, transition towards a greener and more sustainable transportation future. The vehicles will be available through NexGen Auto, dealership network, ensuring widespread accessibility and exceptional customer service.
Further details about product launches, specifications, and pricing will be announced in the coming months.

About Chevy Group:
Chevy Group is a globally recognized automotive manufacturer with it strong presence in over 80 countries. Known for its commitment to innovation, Chevy specializes in the production of high-quality vehicles that combine advanced technology, exceptional design, and environmental responsibility.
About NexGen Auto:
NexGen Auto is a newly established company in Pakistan, automotive sector. Dedicated to delivering premium vehicles and exceptional after-sales services, NexGen Auto is committed to innovation and aims to make it significant impact on the nation, automotive industry.

• Press Release

Greetings, Dear Readers!

In this article I will focus on the importance of the testing and calibration of ADAS system. Because every machine has to be tested to make sure that it is working according to its design and safety protocols. Cars, trucks, and buses are among the most complex machines that the average person will ever operate. 

ADAS technology and its safety features have been developed to improve the safety of our roadways by preventing the human errors that are responsible for the vast majority of accidents. Therefore, nothing is more important than ensuring that ADAS technology itself is safe and reliable.

Additionally, I will discuss how autonomous vehicles will be vulnerable to cyber security threats in the future.

1. Importance of ADAS System Testing

The complex technologies behind ADAS must be tested, and not just in software models, but on the ground, with vehicles and human drivers interacting on real roads under realistic conditions.

Automotive test engineers have been instrumenting vehicles for nearly a century. The vehicles and the ground station must be interlinked wirelessly, and it must be a high-speed and robust connection.

Furthermore, the data from multiple test vehicles moving around in three-dimensional space must be precisely time-aligned, so that the data can be analyzed in a meaningful way.
For vehicles to be capable of 100% autonomous driving under all conditions someday, they must be able to detect and adapt to a wide variety of conditions:

• The expected and unexpected movements of other vehicles
• Pedestrians in the lane of travel and crosswalks
• Debris and unexpected matter in the lane of travel
• Undocumented temporary changes due to construction or roadway modifications
• and more

Simulation is a big part of testing, but real-world testing is essential, so new testingmethods have been developedin the world of ADAS.

The development of ADAS systems requires complex testing, including the ability to control and calculate relative positions between multiple vehicles and objects in real-time, across a large test track. Complex tests involving multiple vehicles and objects require modern test tracks and equipment like:

• Driving robots
• GPS/GNSS
• IMU and INS sensors
• High-speed wireless car-to-car, and car-to-base data networking
• ADAS targets
• Proving ground tracks

Entirely new ADAS testing tools have been developed and are available at today’s proving grounds. There are also partial and completely autonomous testing tools, primarily in the simulated testing world.

Driving &Steering Robots

Driving, aka steering robots, are used for the computerized operation of motor vehicles. They are typically designed so that they can be fitted onto a standard car, truck, or bus without the need to remove the steering wheel or modify the vehicle in any significant way. This means that tests are conducted according to standards, and that test results can be more easily compared and analyzed.
Steering robots are essential for, as well as standard NHTSA roll-over tests, such as Fishhook and J-Turn, UN Reg 13-H / FMVSS 126 sine-dwell tests, and more.

Inertial Measurements Units (IMUs) and Inertial Navigation Systems (INS)

The terms IMU and INS are often used interchangeably, but they are really two parts of the same thing. An IMU is an actual sensor, made up of accelerometers, gyroscopes, and often magnetometers. These outputs are fed into the INS, which uses them to calculate linear velocity, linear position, angular rates, and more. 

Inertial Measurement Units are used to measure and output several parameters: 

• Acceleration
• Orientation
• Angular rates 
• Gravitational forces 

GPS/GNSS Sensors

An absolutely critical component in today’s ADAS testing is highly accurate GNSS/GPS positioning systems. These systems are used to measure relative positions and velocity among vehicles and objects very accurately and with fast update rates.

Improving Accuracy with Real-time Kinematics (RTK)

Real-Time Kinematic is a technique used to increase the accuracy of GNSS positions using a fixed base station, that wirelessly sends out correctional data to a moving receiver.

Many GNSS and IMU navigational devices can be upgraded with RTK (Real Time Kinematic) technology. RTK improves positioning accuracy down to 2 cm (0.79 in.)

Wireless Data Transfer using Robust WIFI Technology

Robust WLAN solutions are used to maintain communication between vehicles and between vehicles and ground stations. Wireless transfers can reach up to 2 km (1.24 miles) range in line-of-sight.

ADAS Soft Targets

ADAS vehicle targets aka “soft targets” are designed to resemble vehicles and other objects on the road, including cyclists and pedestrians. They are realistic enough to convince the camera and other sensors in the test vehicles that they are real. But colliding with them does not destroy them, or damage expensive test vehicles.

Guided Soft Targets

These targets are remotely controlled vehicles made of soft materials that break apart easily in the event of a collision. They look like a car or trucks but are empty inside. After a collision, they can be rebuilt in a matter of minutes and be ready for the next test. 

Pedestrian and Cyclist Soft Targets

These targets can be mounted on a very low propulsion platform, or they can be mounted on an arm connected to the propulsion platform so that test cars that hit them won’t be damaged by running over the propulsion platform. Dummies can be configured as pedestrians, cyclists, scooter riders, and more. Some models are propelled on a remotely controlled platform, while others are towed using flat cables connected to motors located on the side of the track.

Video Cameras

Cameras are indispensable sensors in a wide variety of automotive testing applications, including ADAS testing. The video data from these cameras, in sync with the data, provides important context, meaning, and value.

The most critical aspect of adding cameras to the test is that the resulting video data is synchronized with the GPS, CAN, and analog data.

LiDAR Sensors

LiDAR sensors are being incorporated into ADAS and autonomous vehicles because they are critical sensors. But the LiDAR sensors discussed in this section are the more expensive and capable ones that are used for ADAS testing. They are typically mounted on the hood or roof of ADAS test vehicles and used in proving ground tests.

ADAS Software

All vehicles and other objects in the ADAS test require ADAS software. ADAS software must be able to acquire data synchronously from multiple vehicles at the same time. Also, it needs measurement and calculation capabilities, such as:

• Measure the object’s speed, acceleration, deceleration, heading

• Measure and calculate distances between moving and static objects in real-time
• Measure and calculate angles between objects

What About Consumer-Level ADAS Calibration?

In previous sections, we discussed how engineers test ADAS systems during their development using real drive testing and software simulation. This occurs before the cars’ designs are finalized, manufactured, and delivered.

What if a new ADAS-equipped vehicle parks in front of your house? Is it necessary to check and calibrate ADAS systems? Yes, just like any other part of the car. 

To work as designed, ADAS systems are heavily dependent on sensors, which must be operating at peak efficiency and efficacy as we discussed in part 1. Behind the scenes, there is a powerful processor. It uses sensor data to perform driver assistance warnings (passive safety measures) and to steer and brake automatically to avoid collisions (active safety measures).

Automobile manufacturers are increasingly recommending and requiring consumers to recalibrate their cars’ ADAS systems.

1.ADAS Warning Lights Flashing or Indicating a Fault

This one is obvious: if your car is telling you that something is wrong with the ADAS system, it should be checked and brought back to factory OEM standards immediately.

2.Windshield Repair or Replacement

Several ADAS sensors are mounted either near or behind the windshield, so when a windshield is replaced or compromised in any way, it can affect these sensors. This is why several companies that perform windshield replacement and repair have expanded into the recalibration of ADAS sensors. USA-based Safelight Auto glass offers ADAS camera recalibration as a part of their windshield repair services. They offer both static recalibrations where the car is parked and facing a calibrated target, and active recalibration, where the car is driven on a well-marked road.
Safelight is present across the entire USA.

3.Accidents

A collision causes very obvious damage to the body of the car. But the impact can also affect systems that you cannot see, including the ADAS sensors and system. Checking and, if necessary recalibrating, the ADAS system should be part of any post-collision repair.

4.Changes in the Car’s Height

ADAS systems like parking sensors and others are calibrated for a specific ride height. But if different diameter tires are installed, or significant modifications to a car’s suspension have been made, the ride height can be changed. It is important that the sensors be calibrated to the actual ride height of the car so that they can work as designed.

Consumers should always verify that the repair facility is trained in performing ADAS system calibration according to the car maker’s factory specifications.

What About Cyber Security?

An independent study commissioned by SAE and Synopsis reveals that 30% of automobile makers and suppliers do not have an established product cybersecurity program or team. And 84% of the respondents to the survey are concerned that cybersecurity practices are not keeping pace with the ever-evolving security landscape. 

Today’s cars, trucks, and even motorcycles are basically “self-contained rolling IT networks” that incorporate control systems, entertainment systems, and wireless communication across numerous protocols. The driver’s and passengers’ cell phones, tablets, and other devices can and often do also connect to the vehicle for entertainment, communication, and navigation. They also expose the vehicle to the internet at large, and increasingly, vehicles have their own wireless link to the internet. The potential for hacking has never been greater.

One of the conclusions of this report is that the technologies that pose the greatest risk are RF technologies, telematics, and self-driving vehicles.

To combat this risk, the SAE developed J3061, the world’s first automotive cybersecurity standard. At its core, JAE J3061 emphasizes that cybersecurity should be integrated into vehicle design from the very start, not added later. The pressure to get new vehicles from design to the showroom as quickly and economically as possible has a powerful effect on OEMs and suppliers alike. As vehicles get more interconnected, rigorous testing against vulnerabilities at all stages of product design and development must keep pace. Development testing at this stage is crucial.

A revision to the ISO 26262 Automotive Functional Safety standard is underway, and a working group made up of both ISO 21434 and SAE J3061 has begun the development of an overall cybersecurity standard for tomorrow’s vehicles. A UN Task Force on cybersecurity is also addressing this increasingly important topic.

This is the third article in the ADAS digging series. I am trying to close this topic, but the more I learn, the more opportunities open up. In my next article, I will share the organizations that are developing ADAS standards.

Be sure to stay tuned! 

Exclusive written for Automark Magazine, Feb 2024 by Muhammad Usman Iqbal

It was inspiring to see Pakistani companies making their mark on this global platform. I encourage more industry players to consider attending or exhibiting at these shows in the future. With proper planning and collaboration, we can turn our expertise into a significant export-driven success story.

Let’s aim to make an even stronger impact at AAPEX 4-6 November,2025 and SEMA 4-8 November,2025 next year. Hope to see you there in 2025!

I had the privilege of attending the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX 2024), held from November 5-7 in Las Vegas, USA. The event was a remarkable experience, though I couldn’t explore every corner of the massive exhibition.

Representation from Pakistan

This year, several Pakistani companies participated under the umbrella of the Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts and Accessories Manufacturers (PAAPAM), supported by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP). TDAP provided stalls at discounted rates, making participation more accessible for exhibitors. Among the companies at the Pakistan Pavilion were:

• Ammarian Industry Pvt Ltd
• A One Technique Pvt Ltd
• Atlas Engineering Pvt Ltd
• Kor Tech Auto Industry
• Matchless Engineering Pvt Ltd
• Mecas Engineering Pvt Ltd
• Meralastick Rubber Engineering Products
• Metaline Industries Pvt Ltd
• National Automotive Component Pvt Ltd
• Thermosole Industries Pvt Ltd

Additionally, Excel Engineering Pvt Ltd and Darson Industries independently secured their stalls directly from AAPEX organizers.

Notably, Mehran Commercial Enterprises marked a groundbreaking milestone by exhibiting for the first time under the US Company Pavilion. Their display featured key products tailored for the US market, including parts for Dodge models and off-road commercial vehicles. This proves a significant breakthrough to achieve success.

TDAP’s support was invaluable, especially for exhibitors navigating the complexities of international trade shows. AAPEX provides only the raw space for stalls, requiring exhibitors to handle the additional costs of flooring, tables, chairs, and branding materials. These costs often match or exceed the stall’s price.

What Makes AAPEX Special

AAPEX is the premier event for the global automotive aftermarket industry, worth over $2.3 trillion. This year, more than 2,600 companies occupied 5,508 booths across 37 pavilions. Exhibitors came from 46 countries, and the event even expanded into Caesars Forum to accommodate additional displays. The expo offered over 130 technical and business management training sessions, equipping attendees with insights on the latest industry trends like electric vehicles (EVs), advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), AI, connected cars, and autonomous vehicles.

The Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week

November in Las Vegas is a significant time for the automotive industry. Alongside AAPEX, the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show also takes place, creating the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week.

• SEMA Show: Focuses on performance products, accessories, and customizations, catering to enthusiasts and professionals looking for the latest tools, parts, and add-ons. The show includes product demos, seminars, and networking events.
• AAPEX Show: Concentrates on original equipment (OE) and service-oriented products like tools, oils, interior partsand air conditioning components.

While SEMA is known for its flash and flair products demos, AAPEX is equally critical for those focused on the aftermarket sector.

Key Takeaways and Advice for Future Visitors

For first-time attendees, these events can be overwhelming due to their sheer scale. Planning is essential:

1. Identify Key Interests: Conduct research beforehand to determine which areas align with your business goals.
2. Allocate Time Strategically: Visit both shows if possible but prioritize according to your industry focus.
3. Consider Exhibiting: Whether as a primary exhibitor or co-exhibitor, showcasing your products can open new export opportunities.

Pakistani auto parts manufacturers, with their vast experience in OEM production, are well-positioned to explore export markets. By leveraging events like AAPEX and SEMA, our manufacturers can expand their reach, contributing not just to their businesses but also to Pakistan’s economy.

Conclusion

AAPEX 2024 offered a glimpse into the future of the automotive aftermarket industry. It was inspiring to see Pakistani companies making their mark on this global platform. I encourage more industry players to consider attending or exhibiting at these shows in the future. With proper planning and collaboration, we can turn our expertise into a significant export-driven success story.

Let’s aim to make an even stronger impact at AAPEX 4-6 Nov, 2025 and SEMA 4-8 Nov, 2025 next year. Hope to see you there in 2025!

This exclusive article has been published in Automark’s February-2025 printed and digital edition, written by Mashood Khan

My name is Ali Imran. Me and my wife are an aged biker couple, I am 62 and she is 54. We feel proud to be members of Pakistan’s first community of motorcyclists i.e., Pakistan Biker Club – Since 2007 (f). We have explored many tourist destinations of amazing Pakistan. Our biggest wish was to go for an international tour on the motorcycle. We have been planning for last two years on project “UMRAH ON THE BIKE”. It was very difficult task, but it was not impossible, so we started thinking for this dream.

If you want to achieve any goal or success in life then you have to put extra efforts, need to have strong courage and top level commitments. Because in life some traveling is done for Allah (S.W.T.) and nothing reaches it’s completion without Allah’s help. A child is born in this world without any name but never die without name. “One should try to spend life like Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and die like Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA)”.

We completed all visa documentations and relevant documentation for the motorcycle for the subject journey. The details of these documentation tasks will be shared with public later at social media. 

19th October 2024 was the day as we three companions hit the road together from Lahore to Saudi Arabia by the grace of Almighty Allah (S.W.T.). For this journey our itinerary was (Lahore – Quetta – Iran – UAE – Saudi Arab). From Iran to UAE no road route is available, so we can reach UAE only by sea (ferry traveling). We drove the bike from Pakistan to holly city of Madina Ahamdulliah and covered 6,290 kilometers one way (including UAE cities traveling for some meet up and events).

We reached Iran after 4 nights as our visiting cities were “Zahedan, Bam, Jiroft, Kanouj and Bandar Abbas”. We were impressed by the kind hospitality of Iranian people (many times). We got our bike refueling of petrol from three different Irani cities and every time we got the full tank of our bike totally free of cost. Because the great Irani people insisted every time and refused to accept money at any cost. We faced severe sandstorm / crosswind on the way from Zahedan to Bam while we were crossing small town named “Nusratabad”. The storm was too harsh, as it resulted in felling down of motorcycle twice at standing position beside the road. Because wind was too strong and powerful enough to do it. This also resulted in our bike’s air-filter blocked, moreover the carburetor was not working properly. So we had to get bike’s treatment done in the Bam city. We are thankful to a carry van driver who helped and dropped us with our bike to a good mechanic in Bam city. He did not accept any money and that was again another example of hospitality.

I would also like to mention hospitality of UAE specially PRG (Pakistani Riders Group) team lead by Mr. Mirza Khud. They organized many activities to make our visit memorable. We received a shield in one of the event (Auto Show) in Fujairah, UAE which was presented by high officials. We also met famous traveler / business man Mr. Munir Karim in (Sharjah UAE). He is very kind and amazing person.

There are a lot of people who supported us and appreciated us. A lot of people met us on road and shared their respect for us and our project. We thank everyone in the world who was there around us, whether it was a highway or a place.

This exclusive article has been published in Automark’s February-2025 printed and digital edition, written by Ali Imran.

Pakistan’s automotive sector is having a moment—just not the kind anyone would want. Car sales are plummeting, production lines are stalling, and a once-thriving industry now seems precariously perched on the edge of a cliff. The numbers are grim: According to PAMA (Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association), car sales dropped from over 230,000 units in 2021 to just 81,000 in 2024. Production? Equally dismal.

And while we’re all too familiar with the usual suspects—economic instability, inconsistent policies, and import restrictions—it’s time we address the elephant in the room: dependence. Our auto parts manufacturers are tied at the hip to an industry that’s proven, time and again, to be too volatile. The solution? Diversification.

Let’s talk about Alsons Group, a company that could give a masterclass on pivoting. With nearly seven decades of experience in precision engineering, Alsons has transitioned from primarily serving the automotive sector to becoming a key player in industries as diverse as aerospace, energy, and medical devices. Yes, medical devices.

Take Alsons Technology, their R&D powerhouse, which is innovating in IoT-based systems and health tech. During the pandemic, Alsons didn’t wait for the storm to pass—they built ventilators, filling a critical gap in Pakistan’s healthcare system. That’s what diversification looks like: not just survival, but relevance in a rapidly changing world.

Now consider Synthetic Products Enterprises Limited (SPEL), which started by making plastic parts for cars. Today, they’ve expanded into packaging solutions and consumer products, creating a more balanced portfolio. It’s simple math: when one sector tanks, the others keep you afloat.

And then there’s TECNO, which proves that stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to massive payoffs. Initially focused on engineering and manufacturing for industrial clients, TECNO took a bold leap into consumer technology, developing mobile phones and building a strong presence in competitive markets. Today, TECNO is a well-recognized brand, demonstrating how diversification doesn’t just protect against risk—it can also unlock entirely new markets and customer bases.

These companies are doing what needs to be done. The question is: why aren’t others following suit?

There’s no shortage of opportunities. With Pakistan’s energy crisis worsening, local manufacturing for solar and wind components is a goldmine waiting to be tapped. Similarly, the growing demand for medical devices, fueled by an overburdened healthcare system, offers another lucrative avenue. Even the tech sector, with its appetite for precision-engineered components, holds immense promise.

Diversification isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a lifeline. Pakistan’s auto parts industry can’t afford to stay in its comfort zone. The world is moving fast, and so should we.

The writing is on the wall: adapt or become irrelevant. Alsons, SPEL, and TECNO show us what’s possible when you dare to think beyond the automotive assembly line. It’s high time the rest of the industry took note.

Because if there’s one thing we’ve learned from the automotive sector, it’s that a flat tire won’t fix itself.

In 1997, in Taipei, Taiwan I met a businesswoman exporting sewing accessories to markets worldwide, generating over $1 million annually, her husband, meanwhile, operated a separate export business dealing in spectacle frames, with even greater volumes. They ran their businesses side-by-side from adjacent offices, with their grandmother caring for the children. This family-run operation not only thrived but also weathered market fluctuations due to their diversified global sales.

In an increasingly interconnected world, small-to-medium-sized businesses (SMEs) are well-positioned to tap into global markets and secure their future against economic uncertainty. Countries like Germany, Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea are prime examples, where SMEs thrive by actively engaging in international trade. Diversifying sales across the globe has proven to be a robust strategy for mitigating risks and recession-proofing businesses.

Relying solely on one market or economy makes businesses vulnerable to local economic downturns. However, by dividing your sales pie across multiple countries and regions, you can smooth out the shocks of a single country’s recession. If one market experiences a slowdown, strong sales in other markets can keep your revenue steady, ensuring your business remains resilient.

Export to Recession-Proof Your Business. Here is what you will ain from it:

1. Expand Demand Horizons

More than 95% of the world’s consumers live outside any single country. Limiting your sales to one market means missing out on the vast majority of potential customers. Diversifying sales globally enables your business to tap into this enormous demand, providing a steady flow of opportunities.

2. Reduce Dependency

Selling in only one market ties your success to the economic health of that market. Expanding internationally reduces dependency on a single economy, helping you weather local recessions, currency fluctuations, and political instability.

3. Leverage Accessibility

Exporting has become more accessible than ever. The Internet, improved logistics, free trade agreements, and eCommerce platforms make entering global markets easier, even for the smallest businesses. Additionally, governments and international organizations provide robust support to help SMEs succeed in exporting.

4. Boost Profitability

Companies engaged in exporting typically experience faster sales growth, create more jobs, and pay higher wages than those focused solely on domestic markets. Diversifying your sales pie geographically can lead to long-term profitability and sustainability.

5. Achieve Competitive Advantage

As your export volumes grow, your costs per unit decrease, allowing you to become more competitive in both international and domestic markets. This competitive edge can help your business stand out in an increasingly crowded marketplace.

6. Increase Resilience

Global diversification makes your business more resilient to economic downturns in your home market. If one region faces a slowdown, steady sales in other regions can provide a much-needed buffer.

Resources to Help You Diversify

Embarking on a global journey may seem daunting, but numerous resources are available to guide you through the process. From market research to trade regulations, these tools can help you identify the right markets and make informed decisions:

• International Trade Administration (trade.gov)

• Centre for the Promotion of Imports (CBI)

• TradeMap

Take the First Step

Recession-proofing your business starts with a decision to expand your horizons. By diversifying your sales across multiple countries and economies, you can reduce risk, ensure stability, and set your business on a path of sustainable growth.

The world is a big place, and the opportunities are vast. Don’t wait for the next economic downturn, to take action. Start dividing your sales pie today and secure a future where your business can thrive no matter the economic climate.

Are you ready to make your business resilient and recession-proof? The time to act is now!

Imtiaz Rastgar works as a business coach and consultant and can be reached at www.pmx.com.pk, [email protected], +92–334–593–3391