RMIF grows membership through acquisition of MVRA

The Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMIF) will be increasing its membership numbers, strengthening its voice in the bodyshop and vehicle repair sector and enhancing its benefits portfolio for independent garage members, following the proposed purchase of the membership and field consultancy businesses of the Motor Vehicle Repairers Association (MVRA).

The RMIF has agreed in principle to purchase the MVRA for an undisclosed sum from Capita Group Plc and will be incorporating elements of the MVRA’s body and repair programmes to reinforce the range of services and benefits already provided to RMIF members, in particular Independent Garage Association (IGA) members.

As well as gaining an expanded range of benefits for its members, RMIF membership will grow as a result of the deal, with up to 1,000 MVRA member businesses joining the ranks of the RMIF.

Commenting on his first acquisition since taking the reins at the RMIF, Chief Executive Rob Foulston said: ‘This is a very exciting development for the RMIF, the MVRA and their respective members. For many years there have been multiple trade associations in the vehicle repair sector and no single voice. This consolidation of our own Bodyshop Services Division and the MVRA will strengthen the voice and representation of the sector for the benefit of all participants. Existing RMIF members will benefit from additional services, including field auditing services and health and safety checks and MVRA members will benefit from the high level of technical and legal support available to RMIF members and the powerful lobbying capacity of the RMIF.’

According to Foulston, the aim of the purchase is to grow membership, expand the RMIF’s member benefits and increase quality: ‘The RMIF offers its membership a wide range of member services, ranging from technical support to legal advice, but we are always trying to further develop what we offer and offer it at the most competitive rates. This acquisition enables us to expand our offering to all members, thereby providing even greater support and value for money.’

Details of the expanded services will be revealed shortly.