Aston Barclay is returning to a 100% physical auction model for auctions on the back of increasing buyer attendance.

All of Aston Barclay’s weekly sales will be held in person, although all stock will continue to be available for online buyers

The auction group’s 15 weekly sales for cars and LCVs will all be held in person from 1 February 2023. All used stock will continue to be available for online buyers, with a third of vehicles predicted to be purchased digitally and two-thirds by buyers in the auction halls.

It’s the first across-the-board return to the auction halls since March 2020 when the Covid pandemic struck.

The company has been running a hybrid physical and online option for buyers for ex-dealer part exchange, LCV and Motability stock since April 2021, while ex-fleet, leasing and OEM sales have been offered for sale online.

It follows a rise in buyer attendance at physical auctions; a recent survey of used car buyers also found there is a strong appetite for every vehicle to be driven through the lanes at auction, as buyers can better appraise the stock they are buying for their forecourts.

“The past few years have seen a lot of changes in the remarketing industry, and during that time we’ve been listening to our customers. Our most recent buyer survey showed that our customers appreciate the choice of buying channels – either in person or online.

“This move to a 100% physical sales programme is a response to the changing needs of our customers, especially as the type of vehicle buyers seek may be changing. We look forward to welcoming new and existing buyers to our six auction halls,” explained Tom Marley, Aston Barclay’s group chief executive.