There’s now less than one month to go before the entry deadline for the 2006 AM Awards.

AM editor Stephen Briers says: “The 2006 awards are shaping up to be the biggest and best ever.

"Entries are coming from all parts of the industry, emphasizing the importance the AM Awards has in recognizing the best companies in automotive.”

Judges Piers Trenear-Thomas, John Kiff and Chris Oakham are anticipating some outstanding entries, and with Carter & Carter carrying out assessments in the retail and aftermarket categories, the right companies will be collecting the trophies on AM Awards night, February 22, 2006.

The categories

Headline awards

AM Hall of fame: For outstanding services to the UK automotive industry

Personality of the year: The person making the biggest contribution during the past year

Retailer of the year: The big one for retailers: finalists come from the five retail categories

Carmaker of the year: Based on products, strategies, growth and approach to retailers

Retail

Large retail group: Quality and innovation from a dealer with more than 10 outlets

Small retail group: Quality and innovation from a group with fewer than 10 outlets

Volume dealership: Quality and innovation from a site selling 1,000-plus new/used cars

Small/niche dealership: Quality and innovation from a site selling below 1,000 new/used cars

Used car retailer: A franchised or independent used car site or group

Manufacturer

New car of the year: An innovative, high quality, strong selling, profitable new car

Used car of the year: Strong residuals, controlled return to market, profitable for dealers

Aftermarket

Bodyshop: A franchised or independent bodyshop site or group

Authorized/ Independent repairer: Either authorized by a carmaker or an independent repair site/chain

Motor factor/distributor: Independent or franchised supplier of parts and equipment offering outstanding service to the trade

Innovation

E-commerce product or service: The most innovative IT-based new product or service

Marketing: The most innovative and effective use of marketing techniques

Training: The company that lives and breathes training

Recruitment: A comprehensive recruitment process that attracts and retains the right staff for the business

Internet retailer: The dealer, carmaker, independent with the most impressive web offer

Innovation in property: The most innovative/optimum use of space in a dealership property

Quote unquote – what previous AM Awards winners say

“Winning the AM Award has given our team the recognition they deserve within a competitive peer group. On a personal level it confirms the belief Toyota has in myself and reiterates the fact that AM is so highly regarded in the industry. I’ve got the award sat on my desk and we’re already applying for 2006.” Derek Sims, Derek Sims Toyota

“We are simply thrilled to be recognized by the leading publication in the motor industry. We shall, of course, be applying for 2006.” Howard Jenkins, Foray

“Winning the award is a real feather in the cap for the company and it is wonderful to have the recognition from peers in our industry. Our customers also take comfort from award winners – especially those as prestigious as the AM Awards.” Paul Arscott, Available Car

“Winning the AM Training Award was fantastic and it’s benefited both trainers and delegates alike. Everyone at our Academy of Learning has had a real spring in their step since the awards night!” Ian Baillie, Nationwide

  • What do you think about this event? Have your say in the www.amdealerforum.com.