“It is extremely positive to be part of the Alliance of European Car Dealers and Repairers that will allow us to continue to collectively represent the interests of our members alongside a number of European associations”, said Sue Robinson, Director of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), which represents franchised car and commercial vehicle retailers in the UK.
Promoting the interests of European car dealers and repairers at European level is the primary objective of the newly-founded Alliance of European Car Dealers and Repairers (AECDR). The founders of the alliance have consciously opted for a project-oriented ‘alliance’ as opposed to the structure of a traditional association.
AECDR has already contributed to the European Commission’s consultation aimed at evaluating the Vertical Block Exemption Regulation and lobbies for a new Vertical Block Exemption Regulation including supplementary guidelines. Considering the number of important aspects that need to be addressed such as digitalisation and internet, a revision of the current regulation seems inevitable. NFDA responded to the consultation independently as well as part of the Alliance.
Following the inaugural meeting on 2 July 2019, AECDR will seek to engage with MEPs, EC officials and other relevant stakeholders. Initial meetings have already taken place with SME United, the association of crafts and SMEs in Europe.
In addition to NFDA, the following associations have already joined AECDR: ZDK Germany, AKL Finland, Bilbranchen Denmark, MRF Sweden, NBF Norway, SACR Czech Republic, Traxio Belgium, as well as the following dealer councils: EBDA BMW, EVCDA Volvo, FEAC Mercedes Benz. More national associations are expected to join the alliance over the coming months.
Robinson continued, “Despite what may happen with Brexit over the coming months, a number of crucial decisions will continue to be made outside the UK. Having representation in Brussels will be of vital importance to our members and the whole UK automotive industry.
“The alliance has been formed to coordinate efforts and objectives for the retail side of the automotive industry, not only domestically, but also at a European level.
“This collaboration will enable NFDA to increase its strategy and representation for the interests of our franchised dealer members”.
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS
Please contact the press office to receive a copy of press release on behalf of the Alliance of European Car Dealers and Repairers (AECDR)
Gabriele Severini, NFDA Communications Manager
Tel: 0207 307 3423
Mob: 07880 039 897
Press Office direct line: 020 7307 3422
Press Office fax: 020 7307 3406
Web: www.nfda-uk.co.uk Email: gabriele.severini@rmif.co.uk
