In a landmark announcement for the independent aftermarket, the Independent Garage Association (IGA) has today confirmed it has achieved full approval for the European SERMI scheme in the UK.
The move secures the long-term ability of independent workshops to compete on a level playing field with main dealers.
For the last 17 years, a ‘data war’ has been brewing in the background of the automotive industry. As vehicles have become more advanced, independent garages have faced increasing restrictions when trying to access the security-related data needed to repair them.
Today, that changes.
The IGA’s announcement marks the conclusion of a nearly two-decade programme of work.
Crucially, it makes the UK the only country outside of the European Union to gain access to the SERMI framework.
What this means for your workshop
The SERMI scheme governs secure access to sensitive vehicle security-related repair and maintenance information.
Without this access, independent garages face being locked out of essential repairs on modern vehicles.
By securing this approval, the IGA has established a formal, trusted, and secure pathway for independents.
This ensures that legitimate businesses can continue to access the data they need to serve their customers, without facing arbitrary barriers or restrictions.
A 17-year journey
The IGA has invested significantly to develop a bespoke integration of the European process for the UK market.
This involved close collaboration with European garage bodies, manufacturers, and the European SERMI Board to negotiate access to the European SERMI Trust Centre.
Stuart James, CEO of the Independent Garage Association, described the scale of the achievement: “This has been a 17-year journey, and the scale of this achievement cannot be underestimated.
“Independent garages have long faced barriers accessing vital security-related vehicle information, and SERMI now provides a recognised, trusted route to that access.”
‘Just the beginning’
James also highlighted the commercial value for garage owners: “For garages, SERMI is not only about access, it also demonstrates integrity, professionalism and provides a clear competitive and marketing advantage.”
This approval is framed not just as a solution for today, but as a foundation for the future.
The IGA has said that this is “just the beginning,” with work continuing on additional projects to open doors to secure gateway and cyber security access.
As the car parc evolves, these initiatives will position the UK to lead the way in repairing the next generation of technically advanced vehicles, ensuring that independent garages remain at the heart of the automotive ecosystem.
