11:07 am, August 30, 2013
RETAILERS should prepare for a forthcoming rise in car sales, according to the Institute of the Motor Industry.
IMI chief executive officer Steve Nash is urging the retail motor sector to capitalise on the opportunity of increased new car sales by focusing on apprenticeships and new training programmes.
The development of educational courses and the recruitment of new staff will ultimately deliver a better-quality service to customers, he believes.
With students leaving education and looking for work, Nash believes employers in the sector need to get active and be ready to recruit.
Nash said: ‘It is fantastic to see improved consumer confidence in the new car market, with the SMMT significantly raising its forecast for 2013.
‘But September is also the time when a lot of newly-qualified youngsters with GCSEs, A Levels and degrees will be looking for work and, despite youth unemployment, the market for the best talent is still highly competitive.
‘So employers in our sector need to be active right now, getting their offers together and making sure they are ready to recruit.’
He added: ‘Just last week we heard of one major franchise dealership unable to fill sales apprenticeship vacancies.
‘Yet the retail motor industry, from independent garages to national franchise dealerships, offers a wealth of opportunities for every level of experience and career ambition.
‘With all the excitement of predictions for a bumper September as the 63-registration plate hits the roads, let’s hope the industry can deliver an excellent after-sales experience.’
