Aston Barclay has been appointed as The Independent Motor Dealers Association’s (IMDA) official auction partner for 2022, following a “successful” first year.

The two organisations formed a partnership last year, providing IMDA members access to Aston Barclay’s auction centres with IMDA stock featured as part of weekly dealer sales held at each of the six sites.

Martin Potter, group managing director of Aston Barclay, said: “The last 12 months has had a massive impact on independent car dealers, which has seen many dealers under increased pressure to move part exchange vehicles in a timely manner, while also sourcing attractive stock for buyers.

“In joining Aston Barclay’s weekly dealer sales program, members of the IMDA have been able to benefit from our wide network of both vehicles and buyers, which has helped these businesses to maintain sales figures even during a pressurised market.”

New vehicle supply shortages during 2021 triggered 40% price rises in the used car market in just nine months.

New for 2022 will be an increased focus on aiding IMDA members to buy from Aston Barclay, in-line with the current market, in which stock sourcing presents a greater challenge than sales.   

Umesh Samani, chairman of the IMDA added: “The IMDA is going from strength to strength with more independent dealers joining the association every month. Over the past year members numbers have grown across our platforms to over 800 and will continue to grow as the IMDA provides more exclusive products and services for its members, such as our official auction partnership with Aston Barclay.

“With the ongoing support of our partners, the IMDA will reach more independent dealers across the UK and Northern Ireland throughout 2022 and beyond.”