Appointment of Günter Weber as President & CEO and retirement of Holger Hellmich

Mr. Weber will assume the responsibilities at GAI with approximately 30 years of global experience in the automotive business. Günter is characterized by his extensive knowledge of international parts distribution and garage networks. He has a deep understanding of managing globally operating companies as well as handling political affairs.

The current President & CEO, Holger Hellmich, has decided to retire from operations as of December 31st, 2023. For a period of three months until March 31st, 2024, the shareholders shall appoint him as Deputy General Manager to support the transition of responsibilities.

Jean-Jacques Lafont, Chairman of the Board of GAI, declared, “It is with mixed feelings that I take today's announcement. On the one hand, we will all miss Holger who, in his short tenure as CEO, has done a remarkable job at growing GAI despite considerable headwinds during the pandemic. I wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement. On the other hand, I am delighted that Günter has been selected to take the helm at GAI. His longstanding experience in the automotive aftermarket and his deep knowledge of the challenges facing the automotive industry will be of tremendous value for the years to come. We will warmly welcome him to the GAI family.”

Günter Weber added: “I’m excited and honored to take over this prestigious role from Holger in these challenging times with many opportunities ahead. And I look forward to continuing the successful journey of GAI with the newly defined strategy”.

Holger Hellmich, the current President & CEO, said: “The last couple of years have been a fantastic and successful journey together for all members and suppliers of GAI. With the new strategy, “Driving to Tomorrow,” we have set the milestones for further business success for all our partners.”