FORD has launched a new retail experience in the Next store at Manchester’s Arndale shopping centre.
The new store provides an alternative environment for consumers to browse, finance and order vehicles directly from Ford Motor Company, outside of the traditional dealer network.
Five vehicles are on display, including the Mustang and all-new Fiesta ST.
The store offers customers a relaxed environment in which to explore the Ford range and find the car of their choice together with finance options.
Fully interactive displays instantly visualise the colour, trim and specification of a chosen vehicle. The store also offers mobile phone charging stations and free wi-fi.
Ford ‘hosts’ are on hand to guide customers, assisting with test-drive bookings and vehicle configurations via a new online sales service.
Customers can complete their order in-store or anywhere they have online access.
Growing appetite
Available nationwide, and developed with specialist supplier Rockar, Ford’s online sales website allows customers to specify, finance and order a new vehicle for delivery via participating dealers or the customer’s home, as well as trade in their current vehicle. All online offers include Ford’s warranty and roadside assistance terms.
Andy Barratt, Ford of Britain chairman and managing director, said: ‘Ford recognises a growing appetite to browse for cars in other retail environments and online. We are excited to be able to respond, through the partnership with Next, to the changing way consumers want to shop and interact with our brand.’
He added: ‘We have the most extensive dealership network, which will remain to serve the many consumers wanting to visit a dealer and for specialist retail, van and service assistance.’
The FordStore is accessible on the lower level of the Next store with direct access from Corporation Street and Withy Grove.
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