Motorweb

Citation

(1999), "Motorweb", Work Study, Vol. 48 No. 6. https://doi.org/10.1108/ws.1999.07948fab.017

Motorweb

Motorweb

Car-makers are seeking new ways to strengthen direct links with consumers according to a survey of all vehicle manufacturers and importers operating in the UK market, conducted by the Institute of the Motor Industry. The findings reveal a reduction in the number of franchised dealers, from 6,381 outlets in 1998 to a current figure of 6,365, a small but steady decrease of 0.25 per cent year on year. In contrast, 52 per cent of manufacturers believe that it will be possible for consumers to purchase a vehicle via their Internet Web site "in the near future". Additionally, manufacturers are exploring other means of selling and distributing cars, which includes the use of motor shows (50 per cent), non-dedicated outlets such as supermarkets (18 per cent), and mail order (15 per cent). The Institute believes that a move away from dedicated outlets towards other forms of distribution would not serve the best interests of both the consumer and the UK motor industry as a whole. Whilst accepting that consumers will use the Internet increasingly for identification and comparative purposes, the Institute has serious reservations about the benefits of distribution via "virtual showrooms" and non-dedicated outlets, especially since this will almost certainly worsen the already serious shortage of skilled technicians. Non-specialist outlets make little or no contribution to the training and development of support staff.