In the world of automotive aftermarket and original equipment, the collaboration between Gates and Nova-Group represents a virtuous example of shared vision, commercial synergy, and mutual growth. Vincenzo Giovanetti, Country Manager Italy for Gates, who has been a direct witness to this long-standing professional relationship for over twenty years, tells us more.
Gates is a global benchmark in the production of belts, kits, tensioners, thermostats, hoses, and turbo hoses, with a strong presence in both original equipment and the automotive aftermarket.
«Gates holds over 50% of the global OE market share,» Giovanetti points out, highlighting how this enables the company to work directly with vehicle manufacturers on the development of new technologies,ensuring continuity between OE and aftermarket. One of the most representative products is the timing kit with water pump: «We were among the first to offer a complete system—not just the belt and tensioners, but also the water pump. 90% of the pumps in the kit are manufactured by Gates. This sets us apart: we brand and produce all components in-house.»
The partnership between Gates and Nova-Group is rooted in a historic and deeply human relationship.
«I’ve been with Gates for 28 years. One of the first clients I visited was a founding partner of what is now Nova-Group. He was a true mentor to me—I learned a great deal from him,» he says proudly. The bond, which began in the 1990s, has strengthened over time to become a model of long-lasting partnership. «We’ve built a lot together—from centralized invoicing to the entry of new partners, and the development of an effective, shared working system. The satisfaction is mutual.» There’s also a fond memory of the person who started it all: «It all began thanks to Vittorio, Alan’s father. He was the glue between suppliers and partners. Without his contribution, we might not be here telling this story today.»
The strength of this collaboration also lies in shared values. «Strength, clarity, market vision, and team spirit—these are values that unite Gates and Nova-Group. You can’t go far alone—it’s together that we build the future.»
In an increasingly challenging market, Gates is making bold investments in product innovation:
«We’ve acquired a factory in Turkey specialized in rubber-metal components. This allows us to be competitive, even with products related to battery cooling for electric vehicles.»
Gates and Nova-Group continue to work together on strong professional and relational foundations.
«With Alan, we understand each other instantly. We overcome challenges, targets, and goals together. It’s an asset we must keep cultivating,» says Giovanetti.
According to him, Nova-Group’s widespread presence, technical expertise, and local market insight are what make it a strategic partner: «They’re everywhere, they know the market, and they know how to interpret it. That makes them valuable partners in a constantly evolving landscape.»
Finally, a confident look to the years ahead: «I hope we continue working together, doing great business, and growing even further in our shared endeavors.»
The interview with Vincenzo Giovanetti shows how shared values, trust, and constant innovation form the foundation of a successful partnership. Gates and Nova-Group not only look back on the past with pride but, above all, look to the future with determination and a unified vision.
