Following NFDA’s lobbying efforts, it is positive that Northern Ireland dealers were able to welcome customers back into their showrooms from today, Friday 30 April.
The Northern Ireland Executive recently announced that from 30 April all shops in Northern Ireland would be permitted to reopen, in line with a package of indicative reopening dates.
Previously, only essential retailers were permitted to open, whilst a number of businesses such as car washes and vehicle retailers have been able to trade outdoor since Monday 12 April 2021.
An indicative date of 24 May has also been set for further relaxations to restrictions, including the mixing of households in private dwellings and some other gatherings, subject to a review.
NFDA has been working with officials and ministers to ensure the full reopening of showrooms in Northern Ireland as soon as it was deemed safe to do so and it is encouraging that dealers are now able to welcome customers back into their premises.
Following the huge challenges that faced automotive retailers over the past twelve months, the reopening of showrooms across the UK is an important step forward, one that will support people’s personal mobility and help get the economy moving again.
Further information available at: NI Direct – Coronavirus (COVID-19) regulations guidance: what the restrictions mean for you (page is regularly updated)
