OEM launches sponsored dealer programme

Volvo Car UK is planning to further invest in its brand and retail network with the launch of its Sponsored Dealer Programme. Although not a new concept by the Swedish manufacturer, the programme is a first for Volvo in the UK, playing a pivotal part in meeting its target of 60,000 UK car sales by 2020.

The OEM will give motor trade professionals with a proven track record of running successful individual or small group retailers the opportunity to set up their own Volvo business. Support for the ventures will include securing the site and providing backing that will enable the individual to access credit facilities that may otherwise be out of reach.

Volvo plans for six sponsored retailers to go live in the next few years, with work on the first, located in the Midlands, already underway at a new-build site incorporating the brand’s latest Scandinavian-inspired CI. Volvo will take on the leases for the properties and each site will be set up as a Volvo Retail Experience (VRE) retailer from day one.

Commenting on the initiative, Phil Hand, Volvo Car UK’s Head of Network Development, said: “The Sponsored Dealer Programme has been introduced to find talented motor trade business people who will become advocates of the Volvo brand at a truly exciting time for the company.

“Following the ongoing success of our Volvo Retail Experience initiative, with 12 dealers now operational, the Sponsored Dealer Programme is part of our move to continually improve the quality of our dealer network’s customer experience.”