Automotive retailers are ready to safely welcome customers back

Car showrooms can reopen from today in England if they meet the COVID-19 guidelines to protect staff and customers.

Franchised dealers have been working hard to prepare their premises in line with the Government and industry guidelines to ensure the safety of staff and customers when reopening.

NFDA and SMMT have produced industry guidelines covering the entire customer experience from retail to aftersales. Cars will be cleaned and disinfected thoroughly, dealerships will see one-way systems, multiple sanitising stations and protective screens.

NFDA has been lobbying the UK Government, as well as the devolved Governments of Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland to outline franchised retailers’ priorities.

In Northern Ireland, car showrooms will be allowed to reopen next Monday, 8 June, while in Scotland and Wales there is no certainty yet.

Sue Robinson, Director of the NFDA, said, “Franchised retailers have taken extensive steps adhering to both the Government and NFDA / SMMT industry guidelines. Businesses have been working hard to put all necessary measures in place to ensure the safety of staff and guests, which is the number one priority.

“Many of us need cars to get back to work, especially as more people try to avoid public transport. Cars play a key role in our society and it is positive that the automotive retail sector can now reopen.

“Automotive retailers are ready and look forward to safely welcoming customers back into showrooms”.