CDK Global has signed a deal with Volkswagen Group UK to be the recommended DMS for its Audi, Seat, Skoda, Volkswagen and VW Commercial Vehicles networks.
CDK said it is the largest ever dealer management system dealer-supplier agreement ever seen in the UK.
Pilot sites will run the new CDK system from the end of this year to mid-2016, and following a successful pilot the rollout will then start to the 700+ dealerships operating Volkswagen Group’s franchises.
The landmark partnership will see Volkswagen Group UK recommend CORE Drive, CDK Global's fully integrated DMS, to every dealership across its Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Audi, Seat and Skoda dealer networks.
The long-term collaborative agreement comes after Volkswagen Group UK reviewed its DMS provision and identified the need for greater flexibility within a universal software solution.
The adaptability of CDK’s DMS allows bespoke customer intelligence to be utilised as required by individual brands across dealer networks, improving customer relations and enhancing longer-term loyalty.
Trevor Metcalfe, group network development director at Volkswagen Group UK, said: “We undertook a full strategic review to determine what our retail network requires in today’s dynamic retail environment by involving expertise from eight of our major retailer partner/investors.
"The scale, adaptability and proven track record of CDK Global in improving dealership efficiency is central to our decision.
“Happy and loyal customers are at the core of all our UK brands. We are confident that CORE Drive will provide dealers with the insights and solutions they require to deliver a seamless customer experience, from both a sales and aftersales perspective.”
Neil Packham, CDK Global's UK vice president and managing director, said: “UK dealerships trust CDK Global to help them understand the unique requirements of every potential car buyer. Dealers are keen to collaborate with us as they know our innovative solutions fit and move with current industry needs.
“By working collaboratively with the Volkswagen Group and its dealer network, CDK Global will help individual brands build on their distinct approach, ensuring that every customer interaction is managed consistently and coherently. This is vitally important when you consider that many retail partners are also multi-franchise operations.”
As editor, Tim is responsible for the media content, planning and production of AM's multiple channels (AM print and digital magazines, website, social media and contributing to our events planning). He interviews and writes about as many franchised dealer groups and UK divisions of motor manufacturers as possible, to explore the issues facing UK motor retail and understand what solutions dealers and suppliers are using to overcome these.
Pa Broon - 14/07/2015 17:33
Like most DMS systems its one size fits all approach tends to make it a jack of all trades, but master of none.