Arnold Clark-owned Autoparts UK has implemented strict social-distancing measures throughout its headquarters in Glasgow, after recently reopening its branches.

The parts supply business has introduced a one-way system in its warehouse to minimise the risk of employees breaking the two-metre rule while distributing parts, as well as setting up a dedicated ecommerce area to encourage customers to purchase safely and securely online, reducing unnecessary contact with staff.

Craig McCracken, group factor manager, said: “We’ve had a great response since re-opening our doors and it’s important this demand can be met as safely as possible, which is why we’ve been careful to put these procedures in place and are adhering to Government advice as best as possible.”

During the lockdown, the company made a number of resources available, providing 400 vehicles to NHS and frontline workers free of charge to help them get to work.

It has also been providing parts to bluelight fleets, with a team of 10 specialist parts people working to collect stock from branches and deliver it to their premises or be available for collection.

Autoparts UK, Midwest Motor Factors and Monmore Auto Parts have also supplied 10,000 disposable seat covers for use by NHS staff.

Automotive aftersales operations have suffered a loss equivalent to 5.8% of their expected annual turnover in the COVID-19 coronavirus lockdown period to May 3, GiPA UK research has revealed.

The aftermarket intelligence provider said that its data had shown a steady rise in the losses incurred by the sector up to week 18 of the year – between April 27 and May 3 – when operations begun to ramp-up despite the ongoing health crisis.

Car showrooms and workshops are expected to re-open on June 1 as Prime Minister Boris Johnson eases the coronavirus lockdown, which prevented non-essential retail sites from opening.