Automobile Association of Ceylon Upgrades Road Side Assistance Services and Renovates Club Premises
As part of the FIA Mobility Worldwide programme, FIA Member Club the Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC) initiated a project to upgrade its Road Side Assistance (RSA) services, scale up the technology used for its RSA operations and renovate Club premises in Sri Lanka.
Initially designed to provide mentoring support to new and existing FIA Member Clubs, FIA Mobility Worldwide was rescoped to face the exceptional situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and address the need for rapid recovery of FIA Clubs. Implemented from June 2020, the programme kicked off by providing focused business advisory solutions to address the most pressing needs of at-risk Member Clubs. This formed Part I of the project, which involved direct funding support to selected Clubs and concluded in December 2020 with the release of a Best Practice Toolkit to help Clubs seize new opportunities. Part II, launched at the start of 2021, is addressing medium to longer term support to Clubs. Building on the successful outcomes from Part I, it is seeking to drive thought leadership and business development along fundamental improvement themes, operationalise local and concrete projects through funding, and allow more Clubs to participate in the programme.
FIA Mobility Worldwide enabled the AAC to provide its customers with a more efficient breakdown of assistance services and improved amenities to enjoy a more hospitable environment, thus successfully impacting the Club’s business growth and member acquisition.
With the support of the programme, the AAC was able to provide its team with the latest technological devices, tools and equipment. The technical team was also trained on new technology, hybrid vehicles and the use of spare wheels in modern vehicles by one of the leading motor vehicle companies in Sri Lanka.
These developments allowed the AAC to partner with numerous organisations and garages in rural areas, expanding its RSA services across the country and increasing awareness of its different services and programmes.
In addition, the AAC upgraded its Club premises and renovated the fire hazard and waste management systems. It is now properly equipped to face emergency situations and is successfully complying with the local authorities’ set guidelines.
The AAC has invested significant capital, time, and effort to ensure its development and business diversification.