NFDA’s Driving Digital conference returns on day of AM Awards

The National Franchised Dealers Association’s (NFDA) Driving Digital event will take place on the same morning as the AM Awards on September 8 between 10am and 1.30pm.

The marketing conference will be held at Villa Park in Birmingham, which is a 20 minute walk or 10 minute drive from where the AM Awards will be taking place later that same night at The ICC.

Driving Digital is free to all NFDA members and is aimed at chief executives, managing directors, marketing directors, digital directors and managers, as well as regional and franchise directors, as well as dealer principals.

A line-up of keynote speakers will focus on the success retailers have made of their online channels during the pandemic and how this is shaping the automotive industry.

Driving Digital will look at the rapid adoption of online sales by both retailers and car buyers and analyse the impact this has had on the retailing landscape.

The event will provide a chance to network with colleagues from the industry and meet the NFDA team, to raise any concerns dealers may have.

Sue Robinson, NFDA Chief Executive, will welcome the attendees and provide an overview of the event.

Catherine Faiers, from Auto Trader, will analyse key trends in consumer behaviour over the course of the pandemic and how these have changed since showrooms reopened.

Anita Fox from Facebook will share the latest consumer research into the sentiment towards EV adoption and the trends according to Facebook.

Neil Addley, JudgeService, will follow, providing insights into franchised dealers’ customers’ attitudes.

Ian Plummer will present the findings of a brand-new study conducted by Auto Trader in conjunction with NFDA and ICDP, with a focus on the positive influence online retailing is having on businesses beyond driving sales and enhancing the consumer experience.

John O’Hanlon from Waylands will discuss the latest NFDA’s initiatives to help build an electric retail future, while Mark Lavery, Cambria, will share details of Cambria’s digital journey over the last 15 months and its plans going forward. The day will close with a panel session and a Q&A.

Robinson said: “Driving Digital will represent an ideal opportunity to get back together, network, and discuss the challenges and opportunities facing dealers and their customers on the digitalisation journey.

“I look forward to seeing many of you at Driving Digital and to celebrating our industry in the evening at the AM Awards!”

For more information and to book a free place at the event visit www.driving-digital.co.uk.