Dear Colleague,

Following our lobbying efforts, it is positive that the Northern Ireland Executive have confirmed with the NFDA that “outdoor retail is allowed to re-open from Monday 12 April 2021 for the following businesses: new and used car retailers, retailers of light motor vehicles, lorries and trailers”. We also welcomed the re-opening of car dealers in Scotland this week, with dealers in England and Wales being able to re-open from Monday 12 April.

As dealers across the UK re-open and welcome back their customers, it is positive that they will be doing so on the back of a resilient month. The 11.5% increase in new vehicle sales in March is a notable achievement. With all indicators pointing to significant pent-up demand, April is shaping up to be a bumper month.

With lockdown easing, NFDA, and SMMT, have published updated joint guidance for re-opening. Please see the guidance included in today’s newsletter.

NFDA is the voice of automotive retailers: if you require any assistance or would like any further information about any of the issues discussed in the newsletter please email nfda@rmif.co.uk or contact our member helpline on 01788 538303.

Sue Robinson, NFDA Chief Executive