Autoparts distribution group, Nexus Automotive International, say they have achieved a global footprint 16 months after being launched.

Chief executive, Gael Escribe said the ambitious objective, along with a group turnover in exceess of five billion euros, had been reached 18 months ahead of plan.

He also said that the company will launch a series of initiatives during 2016 and 2017, aiming to "significantly differentiate" Nexus Automotive international in the aftermarket, details of which will be revealed later this year.

Initially focused on Europe, the Middle East and Africa, interest from distributors wishing to join the alliance, and from suppliers, has exceeded Nexus's expectations and they are now represented in 63 countries, according to the parts distributor.

Escribe said: “Since the beginning of 2015 we have increased the number of member organisations from 33 to 43-plus. For a start-up organization, that pace of growth has been significant and we promise no let-up.

“I’m delighted to announce we have our first member in the North America, the automotive distribution network, present in the U.S, Mexico and Canada, which has a turnover of one and a half billion dollars."

He continued: “There has also been further development in Latin America, in Argentina, where Auto Nautica Sur has joined our Regional network, where extended developments are to be expected by the end of the year."

Escribe also explained that the company is represented in South Africa and are in the early stages in the Asia-Pacific region, in Singapore and China, with Yuantai being their first member in the Chinese aftermarket. He also stated that agreements are at an "advanced stage" in Europe.

“All this has demanded a lot of personal engagement from our small central team but we have been well supported by our members and our suppliers who have shown great enthusiasm with the project from the very beginning.” he said.

Escribe said that during the rest of 2015, Nexus Automotive International will focus on consolidating its global footprint and creating value, as a purchasing facilitator and services provider, for its members and contracted suppliers.

It will also build up its newly-launched Nexusauto and Nexustruck.