RAA Admin

RAA agrees new two year oil supply deal for members

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 10:27:00 GMT

The Retail Automotive Alliance (RAA) has appointed Castrol Professional and Fuchs as exclusive suppliers to the 22 member independent motor groups for two years from February 2010.

The 2 million litre joint supply deal was won by Castrol Professional and Fuchs in a competitive tender process based on price, quality and range of products. The process was conducted by Darren Borras, of db Management Consultancy Ltd, and the RAA Oil Procurement Team.

Marc Matthew, Chairman of the RAA and Lifestyle Europe Ltd said: “We are delighted to enter into this joint supply agreement with Castrol Professional and Fuchs. The tender process was extremely robust and these are new relationships for the RAA after four successful years with other suppliers. We are confident that they will provide a competitive and very professional service to our members.

“Our multi franchised membership has increasingly diverse oil supply requirements beyond just bulk and both suppliers have demonstrated that they have a wide range of specialist products available at very competitive prices”

Nick Tedd, National Accounts Manager Castrol UK Ltd said: “Castrol Professional is extremely pleased to have been selected to work with the Retail Automotive Alliance. We look forward to delivering significant value and healthy profit margins to RAA members through our range of premium lubricants and aftersales improvement solutions.

“This agreement, and the partnerships that Castrol has established with many of the world’s leading car manufacturers, reinforces Castrol’s position as the market and technical leader for automotive lubricants.”

Russell Kenyon, Director - Automotive Sales & Marketing at Fuchs Lubricants (UK) Plc said “The RAA members are a well established network of professional franchised dealers in the UK. Our philosophy of quality, customer service and value for money are a perfect match for the RAA and we are looking forward to working closely with every dealership to add value to their business”

For further information about the RAA, please contact Dean Bradford - Tel: 01293 516 123 or email: dean.bradford@retailautomotivealliance.co.uk

RAA Chooses Snap On Business Solutions

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 10:13:00 GMT

The Retail Automotive Alliance Limited (RAA) has awarded a two year contract to Snap-on Business Solutions (SBS). SBS is the leading provider of specialist garage service / repair equipment and management services to a wide range of clients in the automotive franchise sector. SBS provides professional services and programmes that represent the world’s largest vehicle manufacturers across the globe. SBS will be providing a dedicated equipment and services supply route that allows the RAA members to financially benefit from the scale and quality that SBS offers.

The RAA represents 22 independent motor dealer groups with a combined turnover of £2.5 billion a year. The decision by the RAA shareholders to appoint Office Depot as the provider of stationery and office solution services was unanimous.

Having just missed out on the contract award in 2007, SBS have maintained their professional approach, continued to communicate with the RAA and support their members through other initiatives. Now, with very competitive pricing together with their leading professional product and services offering, the RAA are looking forward to an initial 2 year partnership.

Marc Matthew the RAA Chairman who is also Chairman of Lifestyle Europe Limited said: “We will look forward to have a good working relationship with Snap-on Business Solutions over the next two years. Following a review of Snap-on Business Solutions competitor’s, it was clear that Snap-on Business Solutions would be an outstanding choice for our members. The unanimous feeling among the members was that we would like to work with Snap-on Business Solutions to develop a best-in-class service for our members.”

David Stott – Vice President Snap-on Business Solutions Europe said: “For Snap-on Business Solutions this is a very significant contract award and we are delighted to have been given the opportunity to be working with an organisation such as the RAA and their members by leveraging the existing Automotive manufacturer relationships. We look forward to the next 2 years and hopefully longer, working and developing a strong mutually beneficial partnership and an increased service offering”.

For further information about the RAA, please contact Dean Bradford - Tel: 01293 516 123 or email: dean.bradford@retailautomotivealliance.co.uk

RAA Supports The Continuation of the Goverment Scrappage Scheme

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 12:53:00 GMT

The Retail Automotive Alliance Limited (RAA) has added its support to continue the government’s scrappage scheme presently in place by writing to Lord Mandelson Secretary of State for Business, Innovation & Skills.

The RAA represents 22 independent motor dealer groups with a combined turnover of £2.5 billion a year.

Representing 70% of the franchises involved in the scheme, the RAA shareholders and board of directors feel the continuation is important to retain showroom momentum to sell affordable vehicles to consumers and support new environmental products onto the roads of the UK.

Marc Matthew the RAA Chairman who is also Chairman of Lifestyle Europe Limited said: “We are enjoying success from the jointly funded scheme which has encourage a new profile of customer into the showrooms which in turn is supporting business growth and building motivation in our sales teams. It has supported longer term employment which is a key objective in these trading conditions. Employment security is hugely important at this present time. We sincerely hope that Lord Mandelson continues his undertaking to our industry with an extension to the scheme”.

For further information about the RAA, please contact Dean Bradford - Tel: 01293 516 123 or email: dean.bradford@retailautomotivealliance.co.uk

RAA Chooses NIG and Willis

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 15:07:00 GMT

The Retail Automotive Alliance Limited (RAA) has awarded a two year contract to insurance giant NIG via brokers Willis UK.

The RAA represents 22 independent motor dealer groups with a combined turnover of £2.5 billion a year.

The Motor Trade and Self Drive Hire insurance was originally put together by the RAA and Willis in 2007. It was unanimously agreed to renew the deal again this month after a full tender process. The deal worth around £2million in premium is managed by insurance brokers Willis.

In early 2009 Willis outlined a strategy for the renewal facility following which the shareholder members of the RAA re-appointed both NIG and Willis for a further 2 year period.

A competitive tender process was held between 13 insurers, resulting in two finalists NIG and Allianz. Each made a presentation to the RAA shareholder members at a shareholders meeting in Euston, London.

Marc Matthew the RAA Chairman who is also Chairman of Lifestyle Europe Limited said: “We have enjoyed a good working relationship with Willis and NIG over the last two years, but following the review of many of the other insurance competitors, it was clear that a continued relationship with NIG and Willis was still the best choice. The unanimous feeling among the members was that we would like to continue to work with Willis and NIG.”

Mark Hibberd , director of Willis UK’s major account sector and responsible for the RAA account in Willis, said “ The RAA is an important account for Willis UK, and so we are delighted to have been reappointed for a further two years alongside insurance partner NIG ”

For further information about the RAA, please contact Dean Bradford - Tel: 01293 516 123 or email: dean.bradford@retailautomotivealliance.co.uk

More choice for buyers as Simulcast vendors increase

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 12:44:00 GMT

The number of vendors using Simulcast, Manheim?s record breaking online broadcast of physical auctions, continues to grow following confirmation that the Retail Automotive Alliance Limited (RAA) has signed up for the service. Manheim Auctions operates 20 sales per week for the RAA at 13 of its auction centres offering 600 vehicles per week and has sold more than 15,600 vehicles so far this year.

Manheim Auctions? Simulcast is the UK?s premier trade-only online wholesale channel, linking trade buyers via the internet to physical auctions, where they can view, bid and buy vehicles in real time, competing with other online buyers as well as buyers actually in the auction hall. With its UK centres geared up to broadcast live physical auctions over the web Manheim is now transmitting live action from the auction halls for around 50 auctions every week.

The acceleration in the growth of sales through Simulcast has exceeded all expectations this year as the record number of online sales achieved during the whole of 2008 is now already history. Last year 13,517 vehicles were sold online however this number was exceeded at the beginning of July.

Commenting on Manheim Auctions? Simulcast latest vendor, Mike Pilkington, Managing Director, Manheim Auctions & Remarketing said, “The addition of the RAA to the list of vendors who use Simulcast regularly, and who reap the benefits of doing so, is further recognition of the quality and effectiveness of the service. Simulcast has become an integral part of the remarketing „landscape? and is now recognised throughout the industry as a well established, trusted and reliable business tool that complements physical auctions.”

Marc Matthew Chairman RAA said “We were pleased to renew our contract with Manheim after a full retendering process and we look forward to members developing their vehicle disposal business through Simulcast and other new initiatives”

The Retail Automotive Alliance Limited (RAA) comprises 22 independent dealer groups located throughout the UK with a combined turnover of £2.5billion. At the end of 2008 the RAA awarded a new two year contract to Manheim Auctions for the remarketing of up to 30,000 used cars and vans a year extending a relationship that began in April 2006.

For further information about the RAA, please contact Dean Bradford - Tel: 01293 516 123 or email: dean.bradford@retailautomotivealliance.co.uk

RAA Supports the UK Scrappage Scheme

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 17:16:00 GMT

The RAA who represents 22 independent motor dealer groups with a combined turnover of £2.5 billion a year has this afternoon welcomed the announcement today in the Chancellor’s UK Budget introducing a vehicle scrappage scheme in mid May.

Marc Matthew the RAA Chairman who is also Chairman of Lifestyle Europe Limited said:

“The announcement that the scrappage scheme will go ahead is a huge boost for the UK’s automotive business and something that the RAA has been lobbying government for since witnessing the success in Germany – sales there this year have been up between 30 and 40% year on year. It’s one of the firm commitments to come out of the budget today and one that will truly benefit the economy. This isn’t just about green motoring or propping up a UK manufacturing base it’s simply about giving consumer confidence a boost, reassuring the customer who may have been putting off the purchase of a new car or van because of the economic climate which will help get business flowing again. It’s a real positive step and customers can be certain that we will adopt this scheme with open arms, linking it with some really great deals on award winning vehicles from the manufacturers our shareholders represent. Customers will also benefit from reduced VAT costs until the end of this year. Simply has never been a better time to buy a new vehicle”

For further information about the RAA, please contact Dean Bradford - Tel: 01293 516 123 or email: dean.bradford@retailautomotivealliance.co.uk

RAA Chooses Experian's Autocheck

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 16:22:00 GMT

The Retail Automotive Alliance Limited (RAA) has awarded a three year contract to Experian®, the global information services company, for AutoCheck, one of the leading vehicle checking services in the UK.

The RAA represents 22 independent motor dealer groups with a combined turnover of £2.5 billion a year and an expected 2009 stock turn 103,000 vehicles. The decision by the RAA shareholders to appoint Experian as the provider of provenance services was unanimous.

Experian was first appointed as the supplier of provenance services in 2007. When the contract first came up for tender, the RAA as part of its policy investigated other options in the market. A review of key industry providers of provenance services in the UK was carried out. The RAA shareholders collectively chose to award their contract to Experian for a further three years.

Marc Matthew the RAA Chairman who is also Chairman of Lifestyle Europe Limited said: “We have enjoyed a good working relationship with Experian over the last two years, but following the review of its competitor’s products, it was clear that Experian was still the best choice. The unanimous feeling among the members was that we would like to continue to work with Experian.”

Kirk Fletcher, Managing Director of Experian’s Automotive division, said: “We are delighted that Experian has yet again received the RAA’s seal of approval. We understand that provenance is an essential component for any used car business, and finding the most accurate and intuitive service in the industry is important. Being unanimously chosen by an alliance of 22 shareholders is a further testament to our services.”

RAA appoints new CEO

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 16:40:00 GMT

The Retail Automotive Alliance Limited the hugely successful collective joint venture group Chaired by Marc Matthew and owned by its 22 shareholder members who have a combined turnover of £2.5billion have appointed a new Chief Executive Officer from May 2009.

The new Chief Executive Officer is Ashley Winter OBE the former Managing Director of Patterson Motor Group Limited based in Newcastle which had a turnover £250million operated with the Ford, Iveco and Seat franchises . The Patterson shareholders sold out to Arnold Clark Group in 2008. Ashley who has also been a National Chairman of the Ford National Dealer Council has a wealth of experience and business acumen as an owner driver.

Winter’s appointment comes on the back of the retirement of Paul Knight who has undertaken the role of Chief Executive Officer since the RAA formation in 2004. Knight who was appointed after his retirement as Finance Director of Ford of Britain is now retiring to concentrate on living life away from the limelight of the motor industry.

Marc Matthew the RAA Chairman said on behalf of the board of directors and shareholders “ I am delighted, as are the main board of directors with Ashley’s decision to join the RAA as CEO. After his previous involvement as a shareholder member under the Patterson banner it is great to have his expertise back within the senior team of the RAA. I would also like to show my immense gratitude to Paul Knight who has delivered outstanding shareholder benefits to our members of in excess of £5million in business trading savings annually. We wish Paul many happy years in his retirement. Ash will take on a new strategy for the RAA developing best practices and joint ventures for the members over the coming years”.

Ashley Winter OBE said “I am thoroughly looking forward to returning to the industry in this challenging new role working amongst old friends for their mutual business benefit alongside Marc and Dean Bradford the RAA Group Purchasing Manager. There has never been such a difficult period for the retail motor industry in recent times and the RAA plays a vital part in containing the cost base of the shareholders”.

Picture: Marc Matthew Chairman of the RAA and Lifestyle Europe Limited (left), Ashley Winter OBE the new CEO RAA and Paul Knight former CEO of the RAA.

Retail Automotive Alliance Limited awards two year contract to Manheim Auctions

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 10:40:00 GMT

The Retail Automotive Alliance Limited (RAA), comprising 22 independent motor dealer groups located throughout the UK with a combined turnover of £2.5billion, has awarded a two year contract to Manheim Auctions for the remarketing of up to 30,000 used cars and vans each year. This new contract extends a relationship between the RAA and Manheim Auctions that began in April 2006.

The contract will result in sales throughout the year at Manheim’s Auction Centres in A1 Knottingly, Birmingham, Bristol, Colchester, Manchester, Mansfield, Northampton, Saltash and Wimbledon as well as a special monthly sale in Coventry. In addition there will also be a special sale programme for commercial vehicles.

Marc Matthew, RAA Chairman said: “I believe that the professional remarketing of used vehicles is fundamental to a dealer’s profitability and our recent experience with Manheim has reinforced that belief. Manheim offers just what the RAA needs – a nationwide network of auction centres, a high level of customer service and an unrivalled depth of experience and commitment.”

Alan Cureton, Manheim Auctions’ Dealer Sales Director added: “I am delighted that Marc and the RAA has decided to extend its relationship with Manheim Auctions. To be endorsed by an organization that represents so many leading dealer groups throughout the UK is recognition of the pivotal role played by auctions in the remarketing process. I am confident that RAA contract plus other recent contracts awarded to Manheim will result in other dealer groups reviewing their existing remarketing policies.”

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For further information about the RAA, please contact Dean Bradford - Tel: 01293 516 123 or email: dean.bradford@retailautomotivealliance.co.uk

Oyezstraker Wins Major RAA Stationary Account Worth £1 Million

Fri, 23 May 2008 16:40:00 GMT

National stationery supplier, OyezStraker who trade as Statplus, is now the provider of stationery products to the Retail Automotive Alliance Limited. The company has been given the new stationery contract for all 21 shareholder independent motor dealer groups of the RAA.

Nine stationery suppliers were invited to apply for the tender, with initial arrangements beginning in December 2007. The new supplier was appointed in March 2008. Important deciding factors were that the new provider must be able to give national coverage, offer a local knowledge approach, professional service, best price and deliver a positive attitude. National coverage was of key importance because RAA members are spread throughout the UK.

Other important tender requirements that potential suppliers had to provide were the provision of fixed pricing of products for 12 months, online ordering and an order tracking system, next day (same day) national distribution capability, electronic invoicing and the back-up of a disaster recovery plan.

OyezStraker (OSG) were invited to bid for the contract and were successful against eight other leading players in the stationery supply industry. Driving the new tender appeal was Dean Bradford, RAA Group Purchasing Manager. His previous work experience has been to aid and assist the RAA shareholder members as to who they should approach for supply contracts.

The RAA’s previous combined annual stationery spend amounted to £1 million +. The new contract with OyezStraker allows for positive cost savings and one single source of supply therefore simplifying stationery ordering across the RAA shareholders resulting in increased businesses efficiency.

Nick White for OyezStraker commented: “OyezStraker are tremendously excited to be working with the RAA. We are particularly pleased to be involved in their first national contract for stationery supplies and believe that the synergies between both organisations will make for a very successful partnership.”

Marc Matthew, Chairman of both the RAA and member company Lifestyle Europe remarked: “It is with great pleasure that we have undertaken our stationery supply deal with OyezStraker. This contract is worth a considerable sum to the RAA shareholders, and it’s a tremendous deal for OSG as a premium approved supplier to all 21 members of the RAA throughout the length and breadth of the UK. We are looking forward to cementing an even stronger relationship with OyezStraker going forward into the future with other services they can offer".

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For further information about the RAA, please contact Dean Bradford - Tel: 01293 516 123 or email: dean.bradford@retailautomotivealliance.co.uk

RAA Makes A Further Partnership in 2008 With British Credit Trust

Wed, 20 Feb 2008 10:47:00 GMT

The RAA’s extensive dealer network of over 200 dealership, in combination with British Credit Trust’s expertise in the non-prime motor finance market, make them ideal partners. These two industry leaders have joined forces to put more customers than ever before into the right vehicle where conventional finance options may not be available filling a gap in the traditional dealership finance market.

British Credit Trust (BCT) is a veteran of the motor finance industry; with roots going back to 1908 it is the oldest in the UK. In recent years the Company has gone from strength to strength, achieving an outstanding 70% growth rate over the last financial year. By focussing on responsible lending BCT has provided a consistent financial solution for the non-prime hire purchase market; an ethos which they, and their business partners, work tirelessly to enhance.

Stephen Kenchington, Sales and Marketing Director at British Credit Trust, said: “We’re really looking forward to seeing how sales opportunities develop through our alliance with the RAA. While BCT funds a wide range of vehicles Ford is one of our most popular brands, making the potential for growth even more significant.”

Marc Matthew the RAA Chairman agrees with Stephen and said, “he is looking forward to making huge advancements in the area of non prime finance helping customers to realise their dreams and supporting the dealership sales teams with an additional tool to covert even more enquiries into vehicle sales.”

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For further information about the RAA, please contact Dean Bradford - Tel: 01293 516 123 or email: dean.bradford@retailautomotivealliance.co.uk

The RAA Welcomes Shell And Chevron

Wed, 23 Jan 2008 13:53:00 GMT

Formed in 2003, the Retail Automotive Alliance (RAA) is a completely new structure for the UK Automotive Industry. It is a separate legal entity (a limited company) dedicated to negotiating and purchasing goods and services on behalf of its shareholder members at advantageous rates and service levels. It was launched in January 2005 and is equally owned today by 20 independent Motor Dealer Groups geographically spread across the United Kingdom.

Although each RAA member is independent, collectively they are now a very big player in the industry as the RAA. They have a combined turnover of £2.3 billion which places the group second only to Pendragon in the UK retail motor industry turnover league tables, and gives an indication of the group’s enormous buying power.

Successful tenders have been completed and implemented on tyres, paint, showroom furniture, oil lubricants, health insurance, computer hardware, credit card processing, number plates, used car warranty, bottled water, wheel weights, body protection, fuel cards, vehicle data checking, company insurance and used car auctions with a total trade value of around £20 million turnover. The group has so far saved its members about £4 million annually through agreements with major concerns.

Four oil companies were invited to pitch for a two-year contract to supply RAA members with lubricants and a range of motoring related products. The process of assessing the four submissions was thorough and all four bids were found to be highly competitive. However, after consideration the two strongest proposals were found to be those submitted by Shell and Chevron.

Paul Knight, the CEO Retail Automotive Alliance Ltd commented: “Shell and Chevron were successful in RAA’s first major tender for a two year contract finishing in December 2007. During the tender renewal process we invited tenders from them and other suppliers in mid September 2007 for review by a working group of senior personnel from selected RAA members. The preliminary results were discussed at the October 10th Shareholder meeting and a final decision agreed at the November 28th Shareholder meeting.

Chevron’s and Shell’s proposals were considered best overall on the grounds of Brand Strength, Product Technology, After Sales Products, Marketing and Field Support for the Dealers and price. Each of the two has their own individual strengths, but overall they both provided the best value to RAA compared with other tenders.”

With Shell and Chevron being selected to supply products to the RAA’s national network of dealerships, on equal terms and splits of volume from the RAA shareholders, the contract between the two successful oil companies and the RAA began on Tuesday 1st January.

RAA Group Purchasing Manager, Dean Bradford said: “The total projected volume for oil during 2007 was 1,850,000 litres. There are no projection figures at the moment for 2008 but we don’t see any reason for the figures to dramatically change from the 2007 figures.”

Speaking on behalf of Chevron Global Lubricants Darren Borras commented:” Chevron is delighted to continue supplying lubricants to the RAA automotive alliance. In the past two years we have enjoyed a close working relationship and a fruitful business partnership. The Havoline brand is, we believe, well respected amongst the trade and consumers alike. In addition to the market leading engine lubricants products we supply, Chevron will continue to provide and support the innovative Havoline Performance Plus customer retention programme.”

Mr Borras continued: “This programme has already helped a number of RAA members improve profitability and customer service which incorporates petrol and diesel engine fuel system cleaners, crankcase cleaners and air conditioning treatment.”

Enhancing our on-going support for RAA members will be an important business priority once again for Chevron this year. We have just announced a continuation of our sponsorship of Europe’s most popular single make racing championship, the Ginetta G20 series which attracts young up and coming drivers. We hope to be able to leverage this support for the benefit of RAA members. We look forward to the challenges that 2008 will bring.”

Commenting for Shell UK, Automotive Lubricants Sales Manager Jonathan Ellis said:" Shell is delighted to be selected again as an approved supplier to the Retail Automotive Alliance and is looking forward to continuing to provide lubricants, carcare products and business services to RAA members."

Marc Matthew, Chairman of both the RAA and member company Lifestyle Europe remarked: “It is with great pleasure that we have undertaken our oil supply deal with Shell and Chevron for the next 2 years. This contract is worth a considerable sum to the RAA shareholders and it’s a tremendous deal for both oil companies as premium approved suppliers of the RAA. We are looking forward to cement an even stronger relationship with Shell and Chevron going forward."

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For further information about the RAA, please contact Dean Bradford - Tel: 01293 516 123 or email: dean.bradford@retailautomotivealliance.co.uk

Ebbon Dacs - DMS Recommendation

Wed, 19 Dec 2007 14:44:00 GMT

Ebbon-Dacs’s DMS has gained solus recommendation by the Retail Automobile Alliance, a buying and co-operation body comprising dealer groups.

The recommendation process was rigorous and lasted for 8 months during which the solution was thoroughly tested alongside the biggest competitor systems. Managing director Rob Pilkington said: “It is an absolute endorsement of our technology and working methods and a landmark decision.

"We are looking forward to working with RAA members to continue moving the DMS solution forward, providing real business benefits across the group”

John Ecclestone of the RAA added: “Ebbon-Dacs not only presented a strong, modern DMS offering.

"It was flexible. It was possible for us to see the speed at which the solution could respond to changing business needs throughout the recommendation process. This really set it apart from the other vendors."

"We think that Ebbon-Dacs offered the best package of functionality and was best prepared for the future.”

Auto Trader Digital - The Effective Advertising Soltion For The RAA

Fri, 23 Nov 2007 21:47:00 GMT

With over 220 dealerships across the country advertising in excess of 10,000 cars a week the Auto Trader Digital website is by far the most effective advertising solution for vehicle retailers promoting the sale of used cars within the Retail Automotive Alliance. The familiar web address, www.autotrader.co.uk, has become the first port of call for vast numbers of potential car buyers.

After successful negotiations between the Retail Automotive Alliance (RAA) Chairman, Marc Matthew and management at Auto Trader Digital, no fewer than 16 out of the RAA's 21 members are now able to take full advantage of the generous volume based discounts available exclusively to dealers belonging to the RAA.

Ben Mc Dowell, Account Manager at Auto Trader Digital said:" It has been great to work with the RAA and to talk to the dealerships during our visits. Members can now benefit from the services offered by our market leading website, and we are certain that they will gain an excellent response."

Marc Matthews for the RAA added:" We have an excellent working relationship with Auto Trader Digital and feel sure that this new development will prove to be very effective in increasing our shareholder members used car sales. We look forward to a long and prosperous association with Auto Trader Digital for the year to come."

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For further information about the RAA, please contact Dean Bradford - Tel: 01293 516 123 or email: dean.bradford@retailautomotivealliance.co.uk

RAA And Manheim Auctions

Fri, 23 Nov 2007 21:47:00 GMT

The partnership between the RAA and Manheim Auctions has seen the establishment of a highly successful national vehicle remarketing service. The RAA's 21 member dealerships are able to quickly cash out of unwanted part exchanges through a bespoke RAA branded auction programme at 11 of Manheim's auction centres.

Manheim is the world's largest vehicle remarketing company with global sales exceeding 5.5 million vehicles annually. Offering an unrivalled range of products and services to sellers and buyers of used vehicles, its UK operations include a national network of 19 auction centres that host 50 physical auctions every week. The RAA highlighted Manheim's extensive
experience in both the wholesale and retail services markets, together with its innovative approach to remarketing solutions, as the primary reasons for choosing them as their remarketing partner.

Marc Matthew - the RAA's Chairman and also Chairman of multi-franchised Lifestyle Europe group said "Over the last 18 months, the arrangements between Manheim Auctions and the RAA have gone from strength to strength. Both organisations are committed to delivering results and providing high levels of customer care. We also both share a 'can do' attitude and this really underpins the success of the programme."

Although the majority of vehicles going through the auction programme are cars, light commercial vehicles now account for around 5% of total sales. In 2007 the focus on commercials has seen increased activity in light van stock going through Manheim centres in Colchester, Washington, Haydock, Gloucester and Saltash with volumes up by 100%.

Alan Cureton, Manheim Auctions Sales Director for Dealers, commented: "The success of this arrangement is a credit to both organisations who have really worked closely to get the programme quickly established and the headlines speak for themselves. In 2007 we will have processed over 30,000 vehicles from the RAA's 21 dealer members with an overall value
approaching £70 million. We are expecting this number to be around 35,000 in 2008."

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For further information about the RAA, please contact Dean Bradford - Tel: 01293 516 123 or email: dean.bradford@retailautomotivealliance.co.uk

Automotive Supplies Direct And The RAA

Wed, 21 Nov 2007 20:54:00 GMT

Automotive Supplies Direct has gained the contract to supply and maintain workshop equipment for the national RAA network of dealerships and service garages. The company managed to successfully ward off competition from four rivals bidders, all established players in the same field of business.

In order to win the much sought after contract Automotive Supplies Direct had to satisfy a panel of senior managers representing members of the RAA from across the country. The criteria was extremely demanding and to maintain high standards, Chris Brewster was brought in as the National Account Manager for RAA clients, dedicated to serving the needs of all members of Retail Automotive Alliance.

The contract between Automotive Supplies Direct and the RAA network was signed last July and was fully operational by August 2007.

National Account Manager, Chris Brewster, said: "We are proud to say that we were awarded the contract on merit. Automotive Supplies Direct is one of the UK's largest companies it its field and supplies the whole of the UK motor servicing industry. We are delighted to be able to serve members of the fast-growing Retail Automotive Alliance, and as with all our customers,
we aim to provide them with the very best workshop equipment and service technology along with the highest levels of maintenance and customer service."

Marc Matthew, Chairman of the RAA and multi franchise dealer group Lifestyle Europe Limited said; "The relationship that has developed with ASD has been strongly based on their professional approach, commitment to service level and affordability. We are delighted to be working with ASD for all our supply and maintenance requirements with our dealership workshop
equipment needs."

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For further information about the RAA, please contact Dean Bradford - Tel: 01293 516 123 or email: dean.bradford@retailautomotivealliance.co.uk

RAA Recognise BEN From Capital Bank Deal

Fri, 26 Oct 2007 20:54:00 GMT

The Retail Automotive Alliance Limited generously donated £4288 to the Automotive Industry Charity - BEN today outside Fanshaws the IMI Head Office in Hertfordshire.

Following a hugely successful year using the 22 shareholder members of the RAA to place retail finance volume with Capital Bank Motor, an additional reward was agreed to provide support to the number one automotive trade charity BEN.

Capital Bank Motor is a premium supplier to the £2.4 billion turnover Retail Automotive Alliance and has been a key working partner throughout the last two years.

Gerard Barclay from BEN said "we are delighted to receive this new donation particularly, as BEN is facing a substantial deficit and would like to thank the members of the RAA and Capital Bank for generating cash in such an innovative way."

Paul McGill from Capital Bank Motor said "Capital Bank are delighted to make this donation in recognition of the terrific growth in levels of business we have seen with the members of the RAA during 2006". "We are pleased to be a partner to the RAA and will continue to support the organisation in the years ahead."

Marc Matthew - Chairman of the Retail Automotive Alliance Limited said "that it was with immense pride that we are able to handover this cheque for £4288 to BEN. The team at BEN afford exceptional care to the deserving members of our industry who are in times of difficulty. It is the shareholders pleasure to help Gerard and his team in this small way."

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For further information about the RAA, please contact Dean Bradford - Tel: 01293 516 123 or email: dean.bradford@retailautomotivealliance.co.uk