12:57 pm, February 20, 2019
ASSURANT is aiming to add around 200 new members to the RAC Dealer Network in 2019, reaching a total of 1,550.
The increase comes in addition to a recruitment drive in 2018 that saw the network increase in size from 1,200 to its present 1,360 dealers.
Sean Kent, head of account management at Assurant, said that the ongoing growth was also leading to a commensurate surge in warranty sales, which had risen 13 per cent by volume last year.
He said: ‘We believe that there remains substantial potential for network growth and are looking for dealers across the UK who want to work with us and share our passion for delivering a customer experience that reflects the high expectations associated with the RAC brand.
‘While we have seen considerable expansion in recent years, we have always worked to a mantra of only recruiting dealers if they are the right dealers and can meet the kind of standard that we believe the market deserves. This policy will continue in 2019.’
Kent said that while absolute data wasn’t available, it was believed that the RAC Dealer Network now represented around one third of the used car warranty market in the UK.
‘This success has been built on getting the basics right. We offer comprehensive products backed up with high quality training and excellent systems, all of which show an expert knowledge of the needs of used car and van dealers and buyers.
‘However, what really makes the difference is the presence of the RAC brand, the way in which we apply that brand to products reflects the trust that customers place in it, and then we actively help dealers to maximise its impact for marketing purposes.
‘The RAC is one of the most trusted motoring brands in the UK and being able to add our products and standards to each dealer’s used car proposition has significant value, as our dealers will testify.’
He added that the network was introducing a number of new initiatives for 2019 that were designed to provide new options for used car customers buying from members of the RAC Dealer Network and also provide additional support for dealers.
‘Over the last year, thanks to investment from Assurant, we have introduced a range of new initiatives – from a five star Defaqto GAP product and a new level of warranty cover called Platinum Plus through to an interest free warranty offer and enhanced marketing materials.
‘In 2019, we’re planning to build on these advances and expect to be able to make some new announcements soon.’
Assurant is a Fortune 500 company that operates in 21 countries and provides motor warranty products and supporting infrastructure sold in the UK under the RAC brand.
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