27 August 2012

Marshall Motor Group is to strengthen its used car operations by recruiting five extra used cars buyers who will be allocated to specific franchise divisions within the company.

The plan is to create used car buying teams who have a detailed understanding of the precise market conditions for each brand and model in their portfolio. The company believes this will help ensure continuity of the right stock as the used car market tightens.

Chris Sheppard, group commercial director of Marshall, said: ‘In the current market, stocking the right profile of used cars is a critical factor when it comes to success in the sales department and our business.

‘Introducing this additional resource will support our busy general managers and sales managers in the day-to-day operation of their business units. The buyers will be able to dedicate themselves wholly to finding and securing the right stock within their own division, as well as price pointing and stock disposal management.’

Auto Retail Network believes other franchised retail groups are about to make a similar move and strengthen their used car buying processes. The decision mirrors the strategy of many major used cars supermarkets that directly employ teams of specialist buyers, rather than relying on individual, self-employed traders to source stock.

Speaking last week at the launch of the 2012 BCA Used Car Report, Professor Peter Cooke said: ‘Used car operations are changing. The shortage of younger used cars means a lot of retailers should consider appointing used car supply specialists to ensure they get the used cars they need.

‘They need to build links to fleet operators and auction companies to create proper supply chains, rather than rely on the traditional traders who are working for several masters and often keep the best stock for themselves.’

Tags: car supermarkets, chris sheppard, Marshall Group, used cars