EU block exemption regulations
For the sake of brevity, the EU laws allow car and other manufacturers to create authorised repair networks - "so long as the do not restrict competition". They also state that manufacturers must supply independent repair providers, outside of their own sanctioned networks, with parts and information to allow them to provide competition. Extracts follow - : this allows vehicle manufacturers to create networks of selective and exclusive dealerships, provided that they do not contain any serious restrictions of competition - giving authorised repairers (independent garages) access to technical information and spare parts - . The regulation ensures that all service and repair work could be undertaken by any garage whether an authorised or independent dealership. So any excuse for raising prices blown out of the water. If anybody tries to use this as a lever to put up prices, we need to know. Best wishes, Frank B
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