What Car?’s latest research has revealed some interesting findings about car buyers’ confidence visiting showrooms when lockdown ends
What Car?’s research of 2,823 in-market buyers has found that 95% of in-market buyers are comfortable with the prospect of visiting a showroom when the lockdown restrictions lift. Additionally, 95% believe retailers can be run in a Covid-19 safe way – up from 89% in October 2020, when What Car? asked the same question.
Positively, 92% of in-market buyers feel “franchised and branded retailers” will take the most precautions.
For those not comfortable visiting a showroom, 27% of respondents said a booking system with timed appointments would make them more comfortable visiting a showroom, while 21% would want to see evidence that vehicles and waiting areas are being regularly disinfected, and 14% would prefer a clear division of space for staff and customers.
It is extremely encouraging that the vast majority of car buyers feel comfortable about visiting a showroom when the lockdown ends.
The fact that most respondents are confident that dealerships can be run in a covid-safe way pays testament to the efforts dealers have been making over the past months to follow covid-secure guidelines and protect the health of staff and customers.
NFDA members have repeatedly implemented the required, robust safety precautions and it is positive that consumers recognise their efforts. Although we are disappointed that showrooms in England will need to remain shut during the March plate-change, dealers will continue to offer click and collect services while they look forward to safely welcoming customers back as soon as it is allowed.
For more details about the What Car?’s insight, please see here.
