Articles by Debbie Kirlew - Page 2

As the car retail sector becomes increasing digital-savvy, AM's Debbie Kirlew took a look at six key areas where strides are being made towards a true omnichannel customer journey.

With December’s publication of the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) second consultation on its new all-encompassing Consumer Duty protocols and the automotive retail sector now subject to commission disclosure regulations, motor finance has once again been reassessing how it operates.

Clive Brook Group, Drive Motor Retail, Hendy Group, Inchcape Retail and Jemca Motor Group have all ramped-up their acquisition of private used car stock in 2021.

As the new car market declines and EV ownership becomes more widespread, dealer groups are increasingly turning their attention to older vehicles to keep workshops full.

Aftersales departments have been kept busy for the best part of a decade by a buoyant new car market with each dealerships’ own customer base keeping workshops full.

The benefits of an agency-style model, where the new car journey is managed online and manufacturers pay a handling fee to retailers, largely outweighs the disadvantages, according to senior executives at dealer groups already experiencing mixed commissions at work in their businesses.

The heads of three exceptional regional hero dealer groups explain the approach to business and customer engagement that underpins their group's success.

Forced by the COVID-19 pandemic to adapt to changing restrictions including showroom closures and shifting sales online, most dealers have unlocked new ways of working, many of which will be here to stay.

UK motor retail relies on the 'magical touches' in the car buying experience but Jemca Toyota, Luscombe Suzuki and Devonshire Motors explain how they're adapting during the COVID-19 pandemic

Just as car dealers have had to adapt to responsible retailing standards, with PPE, limits on customers and virtual meetings, so automotive industry suppliers have had to play their part.

Post-COVID-19, there will be significant changes in car retailing and warranty products are evolving to face the new challenges

Car dealerships in England were allowed to reopen on June 1 as the Government eased its lockdown, but ‘business as usual’ may be a long way off, reports Debbie Kirlew

The appetite for digital solutions has never been greater while identifying and understanding established and emerging trends will help dealers prepare

The coronavirus pandemic has put the focus on policies to look after staff. AM100 dealer group JCT600 outlines the action it has taken.

Coronavius crisis has meant FCA is putting back the release of car finance findings