The automotive aftermarket has long been the silent engine of global mobility. Behind every vehicle on the road lies the effort of millions of technicians, mechanics, painters, advisors, and independent garages that keep journeys safe and reliable. Yet, despite its scale and importance, the aftermarket workforce has historically been fragmented, under-recognised, and often under-prepared for the rapid technological changes sweeping the industry.
It is in India — one of the world’s fastest-growing automotive markets — that a movement to change this narrative began. ASPA (Automotive Service Providers Academy), founded by Vikrantt Mohan, a veteran with 42+ years of hands-on journey from ground zero to industry leadership. Within months of its inception, the initiative drew interest from service providers in South Africa, England, Oman, Srilanka, Bhutan and Dubai, and beyond. Its transition to ASPA World marks a bold expansion of mission and scope, transforming from a national academy into a worldwide platform for service providers.
Why ASPA World Matters
While vehicle manufacturers and dealerships benefit from global associations and organised
structures, independent garages — which service the majority of vehicles globally — remain
scattered and under-supported. Issues such as inconsistent processes, lack of training for new-age technologies like EVs and ADAS, and gaps in customer trust have held back progress.
“As vehicles evolve faster than ever before, the independent aftermarket cannot afford to remain disjointed,” emphasises S. Muralidharan, Chairman, ASPA. “Garages from Johannesburg to Jodhpur face similar struggles — from fragmented operations to missed opportunities in areas like insurance and preventive services. ASPA World seeks to bridge these gaps and give the aftermarket community a unified voice.”
The Vision and Mission
ASPA World aims to become the foremost global platform uniting automotive service providers, empowering them through education, innovation, and collaboration. Its mission is clear:
- Build a global network of workshops and technicians who learn, grow, and prosper together.
- Establish universal standards of ethics and professionalism.
- Deliver cutting-edge training on emerging technologies.
- Facilitate cross-border collaboration between repairers, suppliers, and policymakers.
- Serve as the global voice of independent service providers.
What sets ASPA World apart is its DNA — it is designed by service providers, for service providers.
Leadership and Advisory Strength
ASPA World benefits from the guidance of an Advisory Council comprising seasoned leaders and global experts. At the helm is Honorary Chairman S. Muralidharan, whose experience as former Regional President of Bosch India and President of Lucas Indian Service brings unmatched insight.
“Our goal is to inspire excellence and professionalism across the aftermarket worldwide,” he notes. The council also includes stalwarts such as Dr. Dinesh Bhasin (ex-Tata Motors), Pankaj Narula (ex- Maruti Suzuki), Kirti Rathod (Delux Bearings), Rama Shankar Pandey (ACMA), Anuj Guglani (World Auto Forum), Himanshu Sura, Parvinder Singh and Kanchan Mukherjee and other respected industry leaders.
Creating Global Standards
ASPA World is introducing a Global Workshop Ethics Charter, a universal code of conduct covering honesty, timelines, fair pricing, and respect for customers. Every member workshop will pledge to these values, bringing much-needed trust and transparency to the industry. Beyond repairs, ASPA World is enabling garages to explore new business streams through partnerships in insurance, accessories, sustainability services, and loyalty programmes. It is also fostering international knowledge exchange through webinars, conferences, and forums where best practices can be shared across borders.
A Platform for the Future
Among ASPA World’s landmark initiatives is its global three-day conference, The Automotive
Aftermarket Affair, which will bring together workshops, suppliers, insurers, and policymakers for exhibitions, panel discussions, and product showcases.
It is also building affordable skilling programmes for garages, while providing manufacturers and suppliers opportunities to showcase innovations globally. Distinguished mentors and retired executives will join as advisors, inspiring the next generation of service providers.
Muralidharan underlines, “ASPA World is not only about business. It stands for responsibility,
inclusivity, and sustainability — whether by skilling unemployed youth, encouraging women in workshops, or promoting eco-friendly practices like waste oil recycling and clean energy usage.”
The Road Ahead
- Management Skilling – Empowering workshop owners and managers with essential tools for efficiency — covering the dynamics of workshop management, customer care, operational control, financial discipline, and leadership essentials.
- Mentoring & Coaching – Guidance from industry veterans through one-on-one and group mentoring, helping workshops tackle challenges with proven best practices and practical experience.
- Networking & Collaboration- Building a strong community of garage owners, suppliers, trainers, and solution providers to foster mutual support, shared learning, and new business opportunities.
- Events & Seminars – Workshops, expert talks, panel discussions, and conferences that deliver insights, technical updates, and industry trends shaping the aftermarket.
- Rewards & Recognition – Honouring excellence with structured programs that spotlight service quality, innovation, discipline, and customer care.
- Road Safety Campaigns – Inspiring service providers to become safety ambassadors through awareness drives, local campaigns, and integrating road safety into every vehicle touchpoint.
For vehicle owners, all the above translates into skilled technicians, fair pricing, timely deliveries, and trustworthy service no matter where they take their vehicles.
A Global Movement in Motion
From its beginnings in India to its rapid evolution into a worldwide network, ASPA World represents more than just an academy. It is a movement designed to uplift garages, empower technicians, and rebuild customer trust across borders. By uniting a previously fragmented industry, ASPA World is ensuring the independent aftermarket is ready for the challenges of the future — from electric and connected cars to autonomous technologies.
As Muralidharan aptly sums up: “With ASPA World, service providers across the globe now have a common home, a united identity, and a stronger future.”
