Actia (UK), part of the French listed automotive electronics group, has set up Actia Muller (UK) as its wholly owned subsidiary for the marketing, sales installation and support of Actia Muller’s range of garage equipment. Following the group’s acquisition of Muller BEM in 2002, Actia Muller SA in France has grown its sales in 2007 to over €45 million. The UK operation represents another step in the group’s growth plans into this market sector.
The operation will be co-located with Actia (UK) in Newtown Powys. Richard Tomkins, a well known auto-service professional, has been recruited as general manager to lead the new venture.
Immediate tasks include the creation of a sales distribution network working with channel partners serving the auto-service and commercial vehicle aftermarket. Recruitment is underway to create a team of regionally based technical support representatives.
Commenting on the new venture, Actia Muller SA managing director, David Vayssie said: “Having consolidated the legacy of Muller BEM, we see the UK as the next step forward in extending our international network.”
The new business operations will be administered from the Actia (UK) headquarters in Newtown, Powys. Actia Muller produces a comprehensive range of capital equipment for auto-service centres and garages. The portfolio covers vehicle diagnostics, gas analysers, smoke meters, air conditioning servicing equipment, vehicle lifts, MOT equipment, wheel alignment centres, suspension testers and wheel balancers.
“We are planning to work with a number of distributors for designated and authorised territories, across the country and avoiding overlap, wherever possible, explains Richard Tomkins. “Our sales force will be available to support the distributors in their promotions and their sales activities.”
Actia Muller also intends to develop key accounts, selling directly to the automotive industry in situations where there is no conflict with its channel partners.
“The aim is to make a two pronged approach, targeting the independent service centres and franchised dealers, as well as commercial vehicle workshops and other allied interests, such as the training and support organisations,”
Richard Tomkins started his career with Sun Electric UK Ltd, which then became Sun Diagnostics UK. During this time, Richard moved up through various management positions to sales and service director, before leaving the group in 2003. Prior to joining Actia Muller, Richard maintained close connections with the industry, working as an independent consultant.
About Actia Muller http://www.actiamuller.com
Actia Muller is a subsidiary of Actia S.A. owned by the holding company ACTIELEC technologies, listed on the French stock market, EUROLIST C. Founded in 2003 following the merger between Meiga and Muller BEM, it is part of a global network of 33 subsidiaries and agents. The group offers a wide range of innovative solutions for vehicle inspection.
