Aftermarket parts supplier Euro Car Parts has reported pre-tax profits of over £17 million in 2009, two and a half times the £6.6 million figure it reported in 2008.

According to the company, this has been achieved through partnerships with many leading original equipment brands. In 2009, ECP entered into a long-term agreement, which added TMD’s Pagid friction brand to a portfolio, which already included the likes of Bilstein, Bosch, Continental, Denso, Exide, Sachs and Valeo, amongst others.

For 2010 and beyond, ECP is actively engaged in further expanding this partnership with other blue-chip automotive brand names, so that all parties can benefit from the partnership.

Company representatives report that the plan is to accelerate this program during 2010, with the ultimate aim being coverage of 98% of the U.K. market – three quarters of which ECP aims to provide with delivery of parts within-the-hour. ECP’s biggest investment in its future is the building of its new 400,000-square-foot logistics facility, which will open in August this year. (Tyres & Accessories)