GP Automotive (UK) has been appointed by Group Auto Union as its vendor for SKF bearings. GP will essentially handle all stocking and logistics arrangements between SKF and GAU.

Founded in 1974 as a trade group, Group Auto Union gradually morphed into the largest auto parts buying group across the UK and Ireland. It has been strictly a buying group since mid-2005.

GAU currently represents more than 400 independent auto parts jobbers, distributors and retailers with over 600 locations in the UK and Ireland.

GAU is a founding member of Group Auto Union International, which represents 13 of the largest auto parts buying groups across 14 European countries. Together, the GAUI's member sales total more than £3.2 billion (USD $6.4 billion).

GP Automotive said its offering lineup of SKF wheel bearings alone is 850 part numbers, representing better than 96% application coverage.

Karyn Hunt, GP business unit manager, said: "We're delighted to add this GAU supply approval to our list of responsibilities and commitments to the aftermarket because it's another illustration of a respected industry group recognizing the quality and performance that we can bring to its members through our logistics agreements."