GP Products, the aftermarket supplier, has appointed Michel Neven as its new commercial director and tasked him with competing in the UK auto parts sector.

His appointment, effective since January 1, underscores the company’s ambition to use its position in the Benelux region as a springboard for expansion in other European markets, including the UK.

GP Products is a European distributor and reseller of aftermarket products in the automotive, motorbike and bicycle industries and distributes parts from ADRO, Akrapovič, Alpha N, BRABUS, CSF, Eventuri, HRE, Leib, MSS, Novitec and Urban Automotive.

Neven will focus on expanding GP Products’ presence within the UK market.

Patrick Meijer, chief executive of AM Group, and an active shareholder and investor in GP Products, said: “Michel’s impressive international achievements with leading organisations such as Akrapovič, Bihr, Kawasaki and Yamaha are exactly what GP Products needs to fulfil its growth ambitions.

“His ability to effectively lead both small teams and large groups adds an important dimension to our management team.”

Regarding his new challenge, Neven added: “I am excited to apply my experience to strengthen GP Products commercially, structurally, and organisationally, and to drive its international growth.”