Motor Trader The award-winning and longest running UK magazine for car retailing professionals. Your first stop for News, Jobs and Reports for the motor industry.
I was talking to one boss of a dealer group recently and asked him what individuals would be interesting for him to read an interview on with regard to dealer issues, particular agency. Among the handful he picked was Alex Smith MD at Volkswagen Group UK. And so this month we get his take on dealer strategy, the agency model and investment in EVs.
On the news front, the big story this month was Nissan Motor (GB) restructuring its UK network with a reduction in the number of dealerships from over 160 to 140. The number of service outlets remained unchanged at 160. The ‘Ideal Network Plan’ will call on dealers to make further investment in premises, infrastructure and digitisation to cater for electrification and changes in retailing.
We had no sooner digested the restructuring plan when Nissan announced that it was selling its 13 West Way dealerships to various dealer groups and at least one unnamed party. Many dealers commented on the timing of the deal but then again Nissan is not the only carmaker selling off factory-owned dealerships. Mercedes-Benz has been busy divesting for a number of years.
In this issue we feature Diana Mackinnon, head of business at Snows BMW & MINI, who gives her view on what it was – and is – like to work in the motor retail sector. The Q&A questions were compiled by veteran motoring writer and broadcaster Sue Baker, who is also a Motor Trader Awards judge.
In Dealer Insight we look at Chorley Group, which has hit the acquisition trail in the North West, buying a string of dealerships, the latest being Vantage Citroen in Blackpool. Back in March it also acquired two Citroen dealerships from the BCC Cars group for an undisclosed sum. Capitalising on the record-breaking performances in 2021, the business has plans for more acquisitions in the coming months.
Finally, check out the Motor Trader Industry Awards, which are open to entries and look set to be a huge success this year after a strong performance in 2021.
And the Motor Trader EV Retailing Summit taking place in October is also gaining traction with a strong line-up of speakers and dealer panels. There has certainly been an acceleration in EV interest among consumers and dealers are working hard to ensure they can give customers the service they deserve.