The Garage 353

SERMI scheme
off to strong
start, says IGA
NEWS
BM Catalysts
launches nine
new parts in latest
range expansion
UK independent garages have responded
enthusiastically to last week’s announcement that
they will be able to access Security-related Repair
and Maintenance Information (SERMI) using the
same framework as their EU counterparts, thanks
to agreements reached by the Independent Garage
Association (IGA).
The IGA reports that garages are getting in touch in large
numbers to register their interest in the scheme, which
will transform the way garages and workshops access
manufacturer technical information on security systems
such as keys and ECU coding, by creating one central audit
and certification process.
IGA Chief Executive Stuart James said: “Independent
garages have a real hunger to keep up with the ever-more
advanced technologies in modern vehicles, and so we have
seen an extremely positive response from the sector to our
news with expressions of interest flooding in.”
The scheme is available to all UK garages on an equal
footing and is being delivered on a not-for-profit basis
in the UK by RMI Standards and Certification. Fees have
been set at a level that should be affordable for all garage
businesses.
The first step for any garage wanting to register for the
scheme is to obtain Basic DBS certificates for the business
owner and the employee or employees who will be
registered to the system.
Stuart is encouraging any garage with an interest in the
scheme to get in touch now, get the ball rolling on their
DBS checks, and be at the front of the queue for formal
enrolment, expected to begin in late July.
He added “The hard work is now starting with the rollout
and the statutory side of getting this scheme up and
running.”
“We are delighted to be able to offer something so
positive for independent businesses. They will finally have a
robust system for accessing security-related information.
SERMI is the key to the future.”
Europe’s leading manufacturer of aftermarket hot end
emissions products, BM Catalysts, has expanded its range
with nine new references, including seven new catalytic
converters and two pipes.
The range expansion comes as part of BM Catalysts’
commitment to be at the forefront of the aftermarket
product offering. The nine new references provide coverage
to an extra 327,150 vehicles in the European car parc, with
six of the nine new parts Euro 6 compliant, meeting the
most stringent Euro emissions standards.
BM Catalysts offers a complete solution to motor factors
and technicians with an extensive range of fitting kits
available.
Complementing its regular range expansions to increase
European vehicle parc coverage, BM Catalysts also has an
uncompromising approach to research and development,
working to identify additional fitments to offer even greater
choice to motor factors and garages.
To view the full BM Catalysts parts range visit:
www.bmcatalysts.com.
THE GARAGE 21
21,News BM Cats, IGA.indd 1 27/07/2023 12:30