Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland update
In England, dealerships were allowed to reopen on 1 June, in Northern Ireland they could return to business on 8 June, but in the other countries of the UK the situation is different.
Scotland
Dealerships in Scotland are currently closed. The Cabinet Secretary for Economy Fiona Hyslop MSP confirmed in a letter to NFDA that click & collect services are currently permitted, provided collection does not require entering the showroom.
In the letter, the Government also confirmed that in Phase 2, retailers may open up to 800m2 of their sales area, which would permit some larger retail outlets such as car showrooms to re-open. Retail units larger than 800m2 will be permitted to open in Phase 3.
The next lockdown review in Scotland is 18 June, which could see the Scottish Government confirm a move to ‘Phase 2’ of its lockdown plan, provided the rate of infection is sufficiently low.
Wales
Currently dealerships in Wales must remain closed. Click and collect is permitted, provided businesses follow ‘reasonable measures’ to maintain social distance (SMMT/NFDA guidance would presumably cover this).
The next lockdown review in Wales is 19 June.
Northern Ireland
Vehicle showrooms in Northern Ireland opened on Monday 8 June, along with other large non-food retailers, with social distancing measures. All non-essential retailers may open from Friday 12 June.
England
Vehicle showrooms in England opened on Monday 1 June, with social distancing measures.
NFDA will continue to liaise with relevant Government bodies and keep dealers updated.
