Dealer slams manufacturer schemes
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TOO MANY manufacturer-approved used truck programmes are bland, boring, and unimaginative, says independent dealer Martin Rhodes.
"Put the advertisements that promote them together and the only difference between them is the colours used," he claims.
"What's more, in some cases they're helping to eliminate the individuality of dealers.The scope for dealers to actually deal is reduced, and their salesmen— especially the ones at dealerships the manufacturers own— end up being order takers selling off a standard price list.
"This kind of standardisation also makes it more difficult for customers to shop around for the best deal," he suggests. "Maybe that's why so many independents are doing so well at present." Bruce Allison, director, used vehicles, at Renault Trucks is only too pleased to defend his company's approved used programme: "Our approach has helped us get our buy-back situation under full control.We've added value with some strong finance and aftermarket packages, and we've provided strong advertising and marketing support too. It's all clear value for the customer."