Tokić Group: Tools and Workshop Equipment as a Regional Driver of Workshop Development
The technological transition of the automotive industry is bringing major changes for drivers, but even greater challenges lie ahead for automotive workshops. These circumstances create an opportunity for automotive parts distributors to take on greater responsibility for the proper equipping of workshops, training, and support across the entire vehicle maintenance market. As a result, the tools and workshop equipment segment is becoming one of the most important pillars of automotive aftermarket development – a trend recognized by Tokić Group, a regional leader in automotive parts distribution in Croatia and Slovenia.
Synergy of Training and Support
As tools and workshop equipment create the foundation for every car workshop growth, Tokić Group, through its specialized departments, not only develops its portfolio of brands but also provides a comprehensive range of supporting services, including activation, calibration, and maintenance of the tools and equipment it offers. Customer accessibility is ensured through a network of more than 120 locations across Croatia and Slovenia, including specially designed showroom areas dedicated exclusively to tools and equipment. Additional customer support is provided through a regional call center, diagnostic specialists, and an online tool store, while the Tools and Workshop Equipment Division operates in close synergy with Tokić Group’s TEC Training Center.
For example, the development of the tool portfolio for electric vehicles is closely linked to nationally accredited training programs for servicing electric and hybrid vehicles. The training center in Zagreb also houses an EV Showroom, bringing together new technologies, training, equipment, and practical application in one location. This is just one example of how Tokić Group combines customer support with its product portfolio, moving beyond the traditional role of an automotive parts distributor. The latest example of this approach is the further expansion of workshop support through the introduction of the Tokić Remote Diagnostics (TRD) service, which is also the result of the synergy between the Tools and Workshop Equipment Division and the training center.
Bringing the Trade Fair Experience Back
Growth potential is also driven by relationships with mechanics – understanding their needs and developing joint activities throughout the year. Therefore, alongside regular activities and communication, Tokić Group has organized major specialized regional Tools and workshop equipment trade fairs. These events have grown far beyond the traditional exhibition format, exceeded the expectations of exhibitors from around the world, and attracted thousands of visitors. “Customers did not simply look around – they talked, tested and made decisions. That is exactly what we want to achieve: first-hand information, the best price and support all in one place,” says Igor Trzun, Director of the Tools and Workshop Equipment Division.
In addition to being a shareholder of ATR International, Tokić Group is an active member of all four ATR committees covering digitalization (DSZC), workshop equipment and tools (WE&T), commercial vehicles (CV), and key supplier relations and assortment strategy (IPAS). Croatia is therefore a frequent host of major strategic meetings, giving Tokić Group access to global industry trends and, combined with more than three decades of hands-on market experience, enabling it to strategically position itself to support the development of workshops and mechanics in Croatia and Slovenia. After all, the development of new automotive technologies and vehicles depends largely on the infrastructure and tools available to the market when these technologies arrive.
