The breakdown assistance market - Italy

1.1 Definition and scope of study

In the event of a vehicle breakdown or accident, immobilized users must call a breakdown service. In most cases, service requests go through their auto service company, which in turn contacts towing companies. The service companies thus become the tow truck operators' first customers.

Breakdown assistance includes different services depending on the breakdown or accident, and can go as far as towing if the problem cannot be addressed on site. However, more often than not, only basic assistance - at the scene or in a nearby safe area - is needed (mechanical or electronic repairs, fuel delivery, unlocking the vehicle in case of lost or stolen keys, ...). 

On a global level, the market can be defined as booming mainly due to the aging of cars and the recent digitalization trends that facilitate the implementation of the service. So, the increasingly systematic use of service companies will lead the industry to grow more and more. 

It is projected to grow from 2021 to 2028 at a CAGR of 5.5%, to a value of about $38.5 billion. In Italy, too, this sector can be described as growing.

The most important player in the automotive breakdown assistance market in Italy is ACI, which has been providing roadside assistance since 1954. ACI is an established partner of Car and Motorcycle Manufacturers, Rental Companies, Insurance Companies and other renowned Companies. 

A very important trend that could represent a big change in the transport sector is car sharing, which is becoming more and more popular also in Italy. This new trend could represent a challenge for car breakdown assistance companies as they would have to change the way they operate and start dealing with new customers.