RAPID RTC has forged a new partnership with Kia Motors UK which will see its leading digital lead management software rolled out across the Korean brand’s 190-strong franchised retail network.

The new deal, which follows a record year for Kia as its registrations grew by 1.63% to a record 95,764 in 2019, gives all franchisees access to the supplier’s Lead Manager tool.

RAPID RTC said that 35 retailers were already embracing the technology and added that service and guidance will be provided by its UK-based dealer care team to help other adopters get the most out of the platform.

Simon Hetherington, commercial director at Kia Motors UK, said: “We continually look to improve the experience for Kia customers.

“In 2020 we have ambitions to dramatically increase the number of electrified vehicles we deliver to motorists and the majority of those customers start their journey online.

“We need to be able to respond to customer enquiries with the right message, at the right time, on their preferred channel.

“RAPID RTC Lead Manager will allow us to ensure 100% of leads are responded to quickly and professionally.”

Pontus Riska, RAPID RTC’s vice-president of sales and support in the UK, said: “RAPID RTC is excited to be working in partnership with Kia UK as they are a progressive brand who highly value the network and customer relationships alike and we are honoured to have the opportunity to help further re-enforce these relationships.

“The Lead Manager implementation will support Kia retailers in taking a significant leap forward in their first impression management with online customers.”

Kia Motors UK joins an existing client portfolio of RAPID RTC clients made up of several of the world’s best recognised automotive brands.

The supplier now works with more than 3,500 clients internationally and has a presence across three continents.

In August last year RAPID RTC appointed two new key account sales managers to aid the company’s recent contract wins.

Pam Cameron and Nicola Pearce joined the company following its recent contracts with Skoda, John Clark Motor Group, Vantage Group and Hendy Group.

Those appointments came four months after the business added a series of new faces to expand its UK sales and support team.