Volkswagen Financial Services is now using the Epyx 1link Disposal Network e-commerce platform to repatriate its own end-of contract lease vehicles back into the Volkswagen franchise network.

“Used cars and vans have been an especially important source of profitability for our dealers during the recession and ensuring that they have access to the best stock is very important at this point in time," Martin Woollam, general manager for remarketing at Volkswagen Financial Services, explained.

"By ensuring that as many used vehicles as possible go through our approved used schemes, we are also helping to make sure that customers are provided with the best experience possible. It is something from which every party in the supply chain gains benefits.”

Ken Trinder, head of business development at Epyx, said there is a trend among manufacturers to push as many of their used vehicles as possible back into their franchise network.

“By taking greater control over how their vehicles are bought and sold, manufacturers can help to ensure that choice used stock goes straight into franchise dealer official used car programmes.

“Doing this is good for dealers, many of whom are relying on high levels of used car sales to maintain profitability during the recession. However, it also ensures that end customers have the best choice of used cars and, more than anything, helps to keep residual values as high as possible by ensuring that stock flows to retailers who can achieve the best prices.”