Continental and filtration specialist UFI Filters agree on strategic cooperation

• Filters for the automotive aftermarket available under the Continental brand as of January 2019
• OE-quality range covers large proportion of the European vehicle fleet
• To be premiered at Automechanika in September

Frankfurt, May 8, 2018. The technology company Continental and filter manufacturer UFI Filters are pooling their strengths and have agreed on a strategic cooperation, a corresponding contract has already been signed. As of January 2019, Continental Aftermarket will be supplying the Italian OEM supplier's product portfolio to the European automotive aftermarket. Customers will then be able to procure fuel, oil, cabin and air filters for cars under the Continental brand name. This extension to the portfolio will be presented for the first time at Automechanika 2018 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

As a global leader in the manufacture of filters and filter systems, UFI possesses a wide range of highly developed technical products. Carmakers around the globe rely on the know-how and experience of this company, which was founded in 1972 and whose materials-related expertise is also sought-after in the motor sports sector. At aftermarket level, UFI's portfolio covers a very high proportion of the European vehicle fleet. With its strong position as distributor, Continental Aftermarket will in future be offering this expertise and OE quality with a focus on Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Benelux and Scandinavia markets. 

“Our stated aim is to continue to expand our product portfolio for the automotive aftermarket under the renowned brand name Continental. To do this, we market only premium products that match our brand and that make sense for our customers,” says Peter Wagner, head of the Independent Aftermarket business segment at Continental, to explain the background to this cooperation. Giorgio Girondi, Chairman of UFI Filters, adds: “This agreement between two leading companies in the automotive aftermarket is a very important milestone in the history of UFI Filters. This strategic step by two premium brands shows that cooperation knows no geographical boundaries. That is crucial. We are really proud to see the UFI products in the renowned Continental branded box.”

As a result, dealers, workshops and drivers will be able to benefit from a comprehensive selection of oil, fuel, air and cabin filters in OEM quality as of the coming year. By regularly replacing the filters, it is possible to ensure safe, reliable engine operation and clean air for vehicle occupants.