News
In the first half of the year VLS set out to build on the strong foundations we have achieved over previous years to ensure the programme was fit for purpose and capable of handling case complaints brought to its attention, in a consistent, even-handed and efficient manner.
As VLS receives its 50th product complaint this year we have witnessed a decline in the number of cases received concerning problem products. My own view is that the big issues the sector faced a few years ago have been tackled. The market has moved to report products on an exception basis reflecting an increased knowledge and understanding of the application of the right industry standard or OEM approval, to the right lubricant.
We know this because blenders report that there is a greater degree of compliance in the market place, additive companies tell us that they are engaging with companies that they have not had a relationship with previously, and ATIEL has also begun its own programme of policing conformity.
At the end of last year the Board decided to begin a programme of marketing communications designed to reach out to the wider end user sector to raise the profile of VLS and engage users in its mission. There are two parts to this programme; the first part is to engage various industry and trade publications to secure public relations coverage, the second part is to take part in a limited number of events to meet end users in person.
Already VLS uses this magazine to promote its activities, running regular columns and features in the promotion of its services. Now Lube magazine is aimed wholeheartedly at the lubricant
sector and as a Board we wished to extend our reach into the aftermarket sectors and wider automotive sectors including heavy commercial vehicles and the fleet market.
Utilising the services of an external marketing communications agency, VLS has secured contacts and public relations coverage in end user publications such as Aftermarket magazine, CAT magazine, Forecourt Trader online, IMI magazine and Commercial Vehicle Workshop amongst others.
In June, we also exhibited at the second Automechanika exhibition at the NEC, Birmingham, alongside other lubricant companies such as Millers Oils, Morris lubricants, Kerax and Mannol UK. The exhibition attracted 750 aftermarket exhibitors and 7,500 visitors to the aftermarket hall over 3 days. On the VLS stand we received 250 visitors, distributed 300 leaflets and associated product information and even signed up two new members to the programme.
Over the last part of the year VLS will continue its marketing communications programme and increase its effort in engaging the commercial vehicles workshops sector, and will maintain its focus on promoting a level playing field that benefits all lubricant companies in the UK in the best interests of the end user.
Andrew Goddard, Chairman, Verification of Lubricant Specifications
LINK
www.ukla-vls.org.uk
receives 50th product complaint
VLS, the Verification of Lubricant Specifications, has opened a landmark 50th case after receiving a new product complaint on 6th September 2017. The complaint concerns an automotive engine oil and is currently being investigated by the Technical Review Panel, in accordance with VLS procedures.
This 50th case marks a milestone for VLS which was launched in 2013. At the time, some lubricant products were being sold in the aftermarket by new entrants with claims that just did not seem to be believable. Closer inspection found that occasionally sub-standard formulations provided by newly-established companies were being passed off as the latest
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specifications, or even failing to perform effectively at low temperatures.
The vast majority of lubricants sold in the UK market were fully compliant with all necessary market specifications. However out of this concern, reputable lubricant blenders and manufacturers came together to launch the Verification of Lubricant Specifications (VLS). VLS has since then reviewed 49 product complaints concerning automotive engine oils, gear oils, agricultural tractor oils and central hydraulic fluids. It has investigated these products for cold weather properties, compliance with formal OEM approvals and industry standards.
LUBE MAGAZINE NO.142 DECEMBER 2017
David Wright, Company Secretary said “This latest case is a significant step for VLS. It demonstrates our continued commitment to ensuring the confidence of our end users in the lubricants sold in a sector that places quality at its very heart.”
Verification of Lubrication Specifications is an independent organisation providing a credible and trusted means to verify lubricant specifications. For more information please call 01442 875922.
LINK
www.ukla-vls.org.uk
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