The motor retail industry is having to adapt quickly to changes insisted upon by the Financial Conduct Authority. From September 1, dealers may no longer sell GAP insurance while the customer is signing the deal on their next car and the majority in our recent AM Poll predict this will affect GAP sales.

Yet finance and insurance will remain an integral part of the car sales process. We have all seen how monthly-payment PCP and PCH deals have convinced more consumers they can afford a new car, or a better used car, and our PCP insight this month shows finance providers are working hard with dealers and manufacturers to help dealers win repeat custom.

Despite the challenges of being under the FCA’s eyes, dealers are being pragmatic in shouldering the weight of the regulation. Feedback from major groups this month suggests they prepared well for regulatory changes, while smaller dealers are also getting to grips with them, helped by support from third-party suppliers.

This issue marks the launch of this year’s AM Awards, motor retail’s spotlight on the best in the industry. You can enter until October 30, so open this month's magazine (page 20) or click on the link below for a full list of categories and let AM recognise and celebrate your success.