Motorpoint, the UK's largest independent used car dealer, has launched an entirely contactless purchase process, offering car buyers a choice between contacless collection at its 13 dealerships or free nationwide home delivery. 

It recently recommenced its home delivery and click and collect services after the NFDA gained assurance from the UK Government that motor retailers could operate such services without opening their showrooms.

Motorpoint's senior management team has ensured all operational measures are now in place to allow its branches to operate safely and to protect employees and customers throughout the contactless sales, collections and home delivery processes.

This has been achieved through additional team training, mandated use of PPE and significant enhancements to vehicle valet and preparation, plus mandatory personal distancing protocols on all sites.

"Given the extensive and robust new operational measures which have been put in place, the group is confident that it is well placed to recommence full operations as soon as UK Government advice allows," added its statement.

Earlier this month prime minister Boris Johnson announced that non-essential retailers, including car showrooms, will not be opening until June 1 "at the earliest" in a "phased return", which has prompted calls from the NFDA and SMMT to ensure they're in the earliest phase.

Motorpoint has suspended its home delivery fee and is offering a discount to NHS workers at present. And all board members have taken voluntary salary and fee reductions of at least 50% for the duration of lockdown.

Mark Carpenter, Motorpoint chief executive, said: “The safety and welfare of our team and customers remains at the forefront of everything we do, so I am pleased that we are now able to resume a fully contactless sales and handover process.

"The senior team have worked tirelessly to ensure we have all appropriate training, equipment and support available ahead of our site teams returning."