News - 2019

2019 has been an increasingly challenging year for many in motor retailing. Deputy CEO, Karl Werner, reviews 2019 and starts to look toward 2020.

The Ultra Low Emission Zone came into force in central London in April 2019. Its introduction served as high profile confirmation of the UK Government’s aim to transition to zero emission road transport by 2040. So what does this mean for car buyers?

Identity fraud is on the rise across the UK with CIFA, the national fraud prevention service, reporting a record number of cases in 2018. For Fraud Awareness Week, we wanted to share some top tips to help you avoid scammers and fraudsters.

Values in the used car market have been on a roller coaster ride since last year, but what caused the volatility? Our industry expert, Curtis Hutchinson explains...

Social media represents a vital marketing platform for most businesses and its appeal for small and medium sized dealers, often operating on a local geographic basis can be particularly beneficial. Here are some top tips from an industry expert!

Back in March this year, the FCA Final Findings report that followed their motor finance review made an important observation; they expected lenders to have better oversight of the dealers offering their finance with lenders taking reasonable steps to ensure any persons acting on their behalf comply with CONC. Another area of the FCA’s report focused on the need for lenders to look at customer affordability when considering a finance application, rather than just creditworthiness.

CEO, Mark Standish, discusses the FCA's consultation on motor finance that was published on October 15, focusing on discretionary commission models and what it means for our industry.

Automotive retailers operate a swathe of third-party software from the DMS to online finance calculators, after sales systems, part-exchange evaluation systems and CRM programmes. Service advisers and sales executives often have several windows open simultaneously with many providers now integrating with each other to share information and reduce double entry. Learn about keeping your data and accounts safe online...

This is the second in our series designed to help motor dealers to understand the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) motor finance review findings, which will not only shape the future landscape for dealer finance, but also and very importantly may require dealers to make changes to the way they work now.

By the end of 2019, the FCA will be extending the Senior Managers & Certification Regime (SM&CR) to almost all regulated firms, including motor dealers. In a nutshell, SM&CR embodies the principles of good conduct and promotes a culture where ‘doing the right thing’ for customers is at its very heart. So, are you ready for SM&CR and the additional responsibility it will place on you?

Your latest issue of Drive Magazine is here! This month, CEO Mark Standish discusses our changing industry and the importance of collaboration between dealers and lenders. We also have features on emerging trends in 2019 and an interview with bike dealer, Thunder Road...