NEWS
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Click and collect still OK for Scottish dealers
Following continuous discussions with relevant Government departments, the Scottish Government has confirmed with the NFDA that ‘click and collect’ and delivery services of vehicles bought online can continue.
JCT600 completes redevelopment of Audi Doncaster
The 650m2 Doncaster showroom has undergone a complete interior refurbishment to incorporate Audi’s latest retail concept designed to enhance the customer experience.
LEASING & FINANCE
Keep sales simple through lockdown
Experience from the first two lockdowns, plus the prospect of the national vaccination programme, means that the used car sector can be reasonably confident about its prospects for the next few months if it meets buyer needs.
FLA reports further fall in car finance new business volumes
Introduction of new restrictions during October to curb the growth in coronavirus cases has led to a softening in demand for consumer car finance. The fall in the used car finance market in October was the first since May of this year.
AFTERMARKET & WORKSHOP
Solara estimating system takes the honours again
Since its inception in 1987, Audatex has transformed the collision repair industry and revolutionised the claims management process. With more than 2,400 repairers in the UK using Audatex, the company’s technical database covers 98% of vehicles on the road, and Solera’s platforms are used by 95% of motor insurers.
Pinewood and Auto Service Finance launch new partnership
Customers can pay for Vehicle Health Checks in monthly, interest-free instalments and approve their work and arrange finance online making vehicle repairs more affordable and attractive.
DEALER INSIGHTS
Dealerships need to plan beyond latest lockdown
Automotive digitalisation specialist RTC has cautioned that, with no end in sight to coronavirus-related disruption, dealers need to embed stability into their business models for the long term rather than expect to get ‘back to normal’ on 2 December.
Used car buyer perceptions – independent dealers lead the way
In terms of seller perceptions, the areas of advantage held by independent dealers were in; trust, transparency, friendliness, helpfulness, care and morals.
JOBS
New Managing Director for Yorkshire automotive group
Richard Hargraves will work closely with chief executive John Tordoff, supporting the operations board in managing the group’s 48 dealerships from Yorkshire and the North East to Derbyshire, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire.
Hyundai expansion continues with new dealers and senior appointment
New network development chief will focus on developing the brand’s representation across the country and will drive long term commercial improvements across the network.