Suppliers are capturing a growing share of the profitability in the automotive industry , according to a study released by business consulting firm AlixPartners. In 2013, the median operating margin of European automotive suppliers stood at over 6% , according to the firm —a substantial increase over the pre-crisis level of about 4.5%.
At the same time , European automakers’ margin stays around 4 %, only slightly changed compared to pre – crisis. Even though these global data tend to elide wide disparities— German manufacturers generate margins approaching double digits, for example, while many generalists are losing money in Europe—they nevertheless point to a trend.
“For now , the margins of suppliers and manufacturers remain relatively stable . But ultimately, there is a real risk for the latter to see the value go for good towards the first, ” says AlixPartners CEO Petizon Laurent .