The Motor Spares Collective
CASE STUDY 01 · SOLIDARITY ECONOMY
The Motor Spares Collective
Township mechanics empowered through a cooperative buying model, with 100 new members joining every month.
The Challenge
80,000 independent mechanics in South African townships face unreliable supply chains, zero collective buying power, limited digital tools, and structural barriers to formal business registration.
The Intervention
UBU established TMSC: a centralised digital platform with verified suppliers, real-time parts availability, business skills support, and cooperative buying power for township mechanics.
Impact Highlights
- Mechanics empowered, growing by 100 new members each month
- Strategic partnership secured with a leading wholesale distributor
- Township mechanics connected to formal automotive aftermarket opportunities
Market Context
SA automotive aftermarket (2023)
Projected market by 2030
"For the first time, I can see how to run my business properly, not just get by."
TMSC Member, South Africa