The Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI) has this morning announced a major structural overhaul – including the setting up of an entirely new division unifying representation of petrol retailer, independent garage, bodyshop, health and safety, MOT and quality standards interests.

RMI chief executive Matthew Carrington says: “The restructure, which comes at a time of intense change in the industry as a whole, is designed to ensure the focus of the federation reflects the changing needs of members and allows it to respond better to the developments in the marketplace. The RMI is now even more focused on its members so that it can fight their corner even more effectively.”

Existing RMI figures will have new responsibilities. Alan Pulham retains his National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) directorship and now takes on National Conciliation responsibilities.

The new unified division, under Ray Holloway, encompasses Petrol Retailers Association (PRA), Independent Garage Division (IGD), Bodyshop (BSD), Health and Safety, MOT, and Quality Standards.

Bob Hood, in addition to being director of IGD and BSD takes on responsibility for Quality Standards and in particular for working with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to develop the Good Garage Scheme.

The RMI's media director, Sue Robinson, has been promoted to director of external affairs. Robinson is now responsible for all media, PR, lobbying, campaigning, conferences and marketing across the whole of the RMI.

Carrington believes that the restructure will allow the RMI to give its members an even better service: “The RMI is the voice of the retail motor trade, representing the views of our membership to the rest of the motor industry, Government and the EU. This restructuring will allow us to be even more effective in meeting the needs of our members.”