NFDA and ICDP publish ‘Life After Brexit’ discussion paper

The National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) and ICDP have published ‘Life after Brexit: challenges and opportunities for UK automotive retail’. The discussion paper analyses challenges, outlines priorities and investigates opportunities that are likely to appear for the retail auto industry as the post Brexit situation emerges.

“Assessing the implications of Brexit remains very difficult, but while uncertainty and changes ahead will present challenges, there are potential opportunities for the retail automotive sector, which is resilient and capable of adapting and coping with unexpected situations,” said Sue Robinson, director of the NFDA.

The paper is divided into four main sections:

• Maintaining customer demand and supporting the UK’s leading edge retail offering
• Avoiding potential disruption and increased costs of vehicle supply, whilst making the most of manufacturers’ UK stocking approaches
• Avoiding additional regulatory complexity, whilst looking for new opportunities to shape the future post Brexit
• Core messages to Government and the NFDA wish list

Steve Young ICDP managing director, added, “Future trading relationship between the UK and the EU should not negatively affect the competitive conditions that auto retailers currently operate in. A zero-tariff agreement, a stable currency and continued availability of affordable finance are key elements to ensure the retail automotive sector remains strong and stable, and continues to thrive post Brexit.”

Robinson concluded, “The UK retail motor industry is one of the major contributors to the UK economy, the strength and success of the sector must not be undermined by uncertainty in the forthcoming months as negotiations develop and Brexit implications unfold. We urge the Government to continue to listen to the franchised auto retailers’ voice.”