Assurant colleagues joined over 1,300 representatives from the UK’s automotive sector on 13th November at the Automotive Management Live event in Birmingham.
This annual gathering serves as a pivotal platform for industry leaders to explore the latest innovations, discuss emerging trends, and network with peers and suppliers.
More than 80 leading suppliers were in Hall 10 at the NEC to showcase advancements in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), digital marketing, omnichannel retailing, and self-service technologies. These exhibitions provided insights into cutting-edge solutions designed to enhance dealership operations and customer experiences.
The event featured a packed agenda of panel discussions and sessions on strategy, digital and technology, sales, and aftersales. Keynote speakers from prominent dealer groups including key partners such as Lookers, shared their perspectives on navigating the evolving automotive landscape. Speakers covered topics such as the integration of AI in car dealerships, effective customer experience (CX) technology investments, and strategies for maintaining profitability in the used electric vehicle market.
There was a strong focus on addressing the importance of sustainability within the automotive sector, and how dealerships can implement sustainable practices in their operations and workforce, aligning with broader environmental goals.
Another key topic amongst the sessions was around regulation, following the Financial Conduct Authority’s announcement they are extending the time that car financing groups have to deal with an expected surge in consumer complaints about alleged mis-selling. This is in light of the Court of Appeal ruling last month that it was illegal for banks to pay a commission to a car dealer without getting the customer’s informed consent.
It promises to be another interesting period for car dealers and service providers, and how they approach all regulated and non-regulated add-on products.