We’ll need to prepare for when the shackles begin to be released

After the government’s extension to the lockdown by a further three weeks it may seem there’s no end to the pandemic in sight, but it’s important to understand that we will come out of this situation.

As an industry we’re well versed at navigating challenges, whether it’s changing approaches to mobility, environmental pressures or wider economic issues for example. And because of the diversity, skill and knowledge in our ranks we hold the key to bouncebackability.

Right now we’re all trying to help one another through the coming weeks, but we do also need to prepare for when the shackles begin to be released, more businesses are allowed to reopen, furloughed staff begin to return to work and a degree of normality starts to come back to daily life. That means sticking to the government’s lockdown rules, but also starting to consider.

Restarting production

We’re already seeing in other European countries that vehicle production is beginning again – Volkswagen, Daimler and Volvo are all switching the process on – and Vauxhall is preparing to fire up the lines at its Ellesmere Port plant. That’s good news and is one of the biggest parts of restarting the industry. As vehicle’s roll off the production line, they’ll head towards dealerships and onwards to customers.

Dealer networks

Many dealers with a strong online presence have been able to continue communicating with customers, and through a variety of tools, allow them to continue the sales process. But as we slowly come out of the lockdown and dealerships open the gates to physical premises the opportunity to speak with customers face-to-face will help accelerate the process, and there is a pent-up demand in the market, so there should be enough business to get the wheels turning again.

Aftermarket

You can’t hide from the fact that the aftermarket sector has been hit hard by the lockdown, with up to an 84% downturn in business, but this also means that customers will need their vehicles serviced, repaired and MOT’d after so long with only minimal use. With that in mind it’ll be a real opportunity to accommodate those people needing these services, so if businesses start planning now, life will be easier when it happens and provide a much needed injection of liquidity into the market.

Education and apprenticeships

The IMI has worked hard to try to maintain some normality through the pandemic for those working towards qualifications, but some areas have proved incredibly challenging, such as practical examinations. With any gradual reopening of the country, this, and other aspects of the system will become far easier, and the flow of talent coming through with the skills the industry needs can be filled.

And as the industry plans for the wheels to start turning again the IMI will continue to support its members in any way it can, continuing to lobby on your behalf, provide as much help and advice as possible, as well as the ability to continue your development through a range of eLearning courses and content. And, if you have any questions that you need answering or want to discuss how the IMI’s can help you we’re always available to listen. Please contact us on +44 (0)1992 519025, or send emails to comms@theimi.org.uk. We’re here to help.

For all the latest updates and for government-specific information head to our dedicated COVID-19 website.

Look after yourselves and your families.

With my very best wishes,

Steve