National motor factor trading group GroupAuto has joined the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

It seeks to benefit from lobbying activity, access to information and the opportunity to interact with people from all sectors of the automotive industry.

Jim Mazza, GroupAuto managing director, said: "We will retain our involvement and support of the IAAF which represents motor factors, parts manufacturers, parts distributors and garages in the independent sector of our industry, but would like a wider involvement in an organisation which is representative of the whole industry”.

He added: “Our intention is not to be a passive member of the SMMT, but to be involved, to listen and learn and have the opportunity to influence."