NFDA launches Northern Ireland division

The National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) has established NFDA Northern Ireland (NFDA NI). “The ongoing issues facing automotive retailers in Northern Ireland mean we must continue to increase our lobbying efforts to ensure the voice of the franchised vehicle dealer is heard, NFDA NI will represent the platform our industry needs to best represent dealers in Northern Ireland”, said Sue Robinson, chief executive of the NFDA.

The new branch will work to outline dealers’ priorities and effectively tackle the issues affecting them. These include:

• Northern Ireland protocol
• MOT
• 2030 end of petrol and diesel sales
• EV infrastructure
• COVID-19 Northern Ireland restrictions and reopening

Members of NFDA NI will benefit from dedicated resources including an NFDA representative based in Northern Ireland who will be assisting dealers by liaising regularly with the Government and other relevant parties. Additionally, unique meetings and events for NFDA NI members will give dealers the opportunity to provide regular feedback to NFDA by raising any concerns that may be affecting them and, in turn, help set the direction of the association’s lobbying activities.

NFDA NI will remain part of the wider NFDA, meaning members will also have access to the existing range of NFDA benefits including a legal helpline, the National Conciliation Service (NCS), as well as timely communications ranging from member-only guidance to industry insights and reports.

NFDA NI can already rely on the support of a number of dealer groups including Agnew Group and Donnelly Group.

Robinson added: “We look forward to working closely with our members, industry stakeholders and local Government to ensure dealers in Northern Ireland can receive the support they need.”