The transition of consumer credit regulation to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has been described as a seismic shift for the motor industry.

Motor finance houses need dealers to embrace this regulation and work within it, because there are grave consequences for those that don’t. It’s the reason for our special report on consumer credit regulations, starting on p35 of the magazine but also viewable as an ezine.

We’ve aimed to give an overview of the regulatory changes and we would love your feedback on how your teams and processes are adapting to the new rules. Email am@bauermedia.co.uk with your thoughts.

Click below to read a selection of pages from April's AM magazine

 

This month's magazine also included a round-up of the best online marketing advice from the AM & AutoTrader Digital Marketing conference.

One motor retailer that has been adapting its processes in other areas recently is Marshall Motor Group. On p56 of this months's magazine, its chief executive, Daksh Gupta, reveals changes to its operations and sales processes that cater for today’s well-informed car buyer. He aims to ensure consumers still have a reason to want the Marshall experience.

Creating that reason to visit is an essential point. Most car buyers still need to conclude their customer journey at the dealership. As more and more of the traditional process finds its way online, it is the personal experience that must be promoted.

Also in April's AM magazine

♦ Professor Jim Saker finds a common trait shared by the recent AM Awards-winning retailers.

♦ Jay Nagley looks at how certain brands have become too reliant on small cars.

♦ Philip Nothard looks at how carmakers and their stronger franchised networks will put a squeeze on the independents.

♦ The opportunity for franchised dealers in servicing fleets.

♦ The best tactics to use when a customer leaves you an 'oddball' motor in part-exchange.

♦ Cars reviewed: Maserati Ghibli, Volvo D4 Drive-E, Mitsuishi ASX, Seat Leon 1.6TDi, Mazda6 Tourer.