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THE National Franchised Dealer Association has received clarification from the Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Economy regarding the opening of car showrooms in Scotland.

Fiona Hyslop MSP  confirmed to the NFDA that all retailers including dealerships can currently open for ‘click and collect’,  and added that retailers may open up to 800 m2 of their sales area in Phase 2.

Sue Robinson, Director of the NFDA, wrote to the Scottish Government on 13 and 27 May to outline automotive retailers’ views regarding plans for re-opening showrooms in Scotland.

In reply Hyslop confirmed that there are no regulations which prevent motor vehicles being distance sold and delivered in Scotland.

It is only showrooms which must remain closed, as detailed in the Scottish Government guidelines.

Hyslop’s letter added: “All retailers including dealerships may open for ‘click & collect’, providing collection does not involve entering the showroom. This has been the case throughout lockdown and many outlets have operated on that basis, including adaptation of parking areas to permit physical distancing across their whole site.

“Of course, any distance selling and delivery of motor vehicles must be undertaken while strictly adhering to physical distancing guidelines which can be found here.”

The Scottish Government published retail sectoral guidance on 26 May which states that retailers may open up to 800 m2 of their sales area, permitting some larger retail outlets such as car showrooms to re-open in Phase 2.

Retail units larger than 800 m2 will be permitted to open in Phase 3. Each business will need to translate this guidance into the specific actions it needs to take depending on the nature of their business (i.e. the size and type of business, how it is organised, operated, managed and regulated).

 

 

 

 

 

 

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