The UK government has announced car showrooms will reopen on 1st June 2020. Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed that customers are allowed back on to forecourts at the beginning of next month.
The official Downing Street briefing on Monday 25th May also stated that non-essential shops can reopen from 15th June onwards. Of course, this means shops and dealerships will have to comply with strict social distancing guidelines. Additional hygiene measures must be in place so they can be deemed covid secure.
We expect the new situation in dealerships to be very different to what we are all traditionally used to. But rest assured safety measures are being put in place to protect both staff and customers. Be sensible, take all the recommended steps you can to protect yourself and those around you. We advise taking hand sanitiser with you and wearing a face covering.
We are anticipating one-way systems to be put in place throughout car showrooms in the UK, with designated entrances and exits. Along with solo test drives and plastic screens in operation for added protection. Waiting areas will also be split up, to ensure safe social distancing is adhered to.
Car viewings may need to be booked, so thorough cleaning and disinfecting can take place. Special care will be taken by dealerships when cleaning steering wheels, gear sticks, doors and buttons. Additional precautions such as sanitising stations should be set up by businesses.
Not all dealerships will be opening, this is the decision of the site. Do check before you travel to avoid disappointment. It is possible that larger forecourts will open slowly to stagger the return of staff members. There will be a focus on outdoor forecourts and open spaces, as this is considered safer for all.
With more people going back into work as lockdown measures are slowly eased in the coming weeks, the demand for cars is rising. The car industry is eager to get back up and running.
If you are looking for your next vehicle, simply use our online drag and drop calculator below to estimate your payment plan. Alternatively, you can apply here. Let’s help get you back on the road.
Find out more from in-depth reports published by Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).