Rare Spares, the classic vehicle parts manufacturer and supplier is celebrating its 40 year anniversary in 2015. To celebrate some of the team headed down to Phillip Island for the final event of the 2015 Touring Car Masters series. Adding to the party atmosphere, Rare Spares was also celebrating motorsport royalty John Bowe’s 10th year as Rare Spares Brand ambassador.
It was forty years ago when Rare Spares took its first steps as a young car parts company in the residential basement of a Melbourne suburb, initially focusing on components for both the 48-215 and FJ Holdens. Business quickly expanded and after relocating to Brunswick, a manufacturing program was started. In 1986 the Company added Ford parts to its range and soon after started marketing its products to OEM companies including Ford, Holden, Nissan and Mitsubishi. The Company also developed an extensive industrial rubber product range. In 1990 the Company expanded into a new purpose built warehouse and modern office complex in Campbellfield to house its rapidly expanding staff and product range.
In 2006, RSP Automotive and Industrial Pty Ltd became the overarching company name; however the Rare Spares name remained very prominent. The RSP name was better suited to reflect the diversity of the total product range within the business such as automotive OEM, clips and fasteners, information technology, metal pressing, oulded rubber products, hose products as well as Rare Spares branded automotive aftermarket parts and accessories.
General Manager of Rare Spares David Rayner said: “Who would have thought Rare Spares would grow to be a successful multi-million dollar company when we started selling old 48-215 and FJ parts all those years ago. But over the years, thanks to our great staff and loyal customers, we’ve been able to remanufacture thousands of new car parts for the restoration market. And by doing so, we’re keeping these wonderful old classic cars on the road.”
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