The latest SMMT figures confirm that political and economic insecurity continues to impact new car sales, leaving dealers facing uncertain times; the UK new car market was down 4.6% in May.  However, EMaC is reporting an increase in Service Plan sales secured by dealers in May. This success demonstrates that enterprising dealers are continuing to seize the opportunity to upsell Service Plans and bridge the car sales gap.

Working in collaboration with EMaC, the leading provider of Service Plan and consumer retention solutions to the UK automotive industry, dealers are profiting from the intelligence delivered through innovations such as AutoQuote, Self-Serve and Drive Now, Pay Later+.  These technologies have been designed to aid dealers in seizing sales opportunities at a time and by a means that best suit the consumer. Crucially, EMaC services are backed by over 100 knowledgeable experts who are dedicated to maximising a dealer’s aftersales programme, enabling dealers to make more efficient use of their own resources and improving business productivity.

Service Plan sales not only help to soften a decline in revenue for dealers, but they also help car owners to spread maintenance and servicing costs – much needed during times of economic uncertainty. By adding value to the ownership experience for consumers, dealers build greater consumer loyalty and retention for the longer term.

John O’Donnell, Managing Director of EMaC, comments, “Unfortunately, there is little the average car dealer can do to impact the wider issues affecting car sales, but they can effectively influence their aftersales opportunities. We pride ourselves not only in delivering products and services that address the needs of dealers and their consumers, but also in offering training which equips dealers with the right tools and knowledge to further build on customer retention, protecting the ongoing success of their business.”