While garages were able to remain open through COVID-19 lockdown, new car showrooms were required to shut, but from today (Monday 1 June), franchised dealers in England are able to fully reopen.

The NFDA and SMMT have produced industry guidelines covering the entire customer experience from retail to aftersales. Cars will be cleaned and disinfected thoroughly, dealerships will see one-way systems, multiple sanitising stations and protective screens.

NFDA Director Sue Robinson said: “Franchised retailers have taken extensive steps adhering to both the Government and NFDA / SMMT industry guidelines. Businesses have been working hard to put all necessary measures in place to ensure the safety of staff and guests, which is the number one priority.   “Many of us need cars to get back to work, especially as more people try to avoid public transport. Cars play a key role in our society and it is positive that the automotive retail sector can now reopen.”   She added: “Automotive retailers are ready and look forward to safely welcoming customers back into showrooms”.

 In Northern Ireland, car showrooms will be allowed to reopen from Monday 8 June, while in Scotland and Wales there is still not a restart date.