Marshall, Inchcape and Sytner have become the first dealer groups to sign up to the Association of Fleet Operators’ (AFP) new Dealer Standard.

The 28-point dealer standard is designed to ensure that fleet cars and vans are delivered in excellent condition to the end user and with a high degree of consistency in vital areas

The 28-point accreditation – launched at the end of February – is designed to ensure that fleet cars and vans are delivered in excellent condition to the end user and with a high degree of consistency in vital areas. This includes vehicle condition on handover and familiarisation with its key functions.

Paul Hollick, chair at the AFP, said: “We’ve been very pleased with the initial response to the launch of the Dealer Standard and to have three such large and well-respected motor retailers become part of the initiative so quickly is very gratifying.

“Our intention was always that the standard should become used right across the industry by all dealers that work with fleets and the commitment of these organisations represents an excellent start towards that objective.”

Other major dealer groups have also expressed a strong interest in joining the programme and Hollick said their names would be announced as they signed up in the coming weeks.

“Furthermore, we are also talking to a number of vehicle leasing companies who are keen on making the standard part of the obligations of their preferred dealer supplier networks, which would create substantial additional momentum,” he added.

Marshall served as part of the consultancy process when the AFP was creating the Dealer Standard, and Zoe Lawson, head of corporate sales, said that the dealer group was delighted to now commit to its requirements.

“From the outset, we believed that this was an excellent idea that would help to ensure that fleet customers across the motor industry received an excellent level of service and we’re very happy to now be part of the scheme following its launch.”

Dealers can sign up to the scheme for a fee after committing to the standards. They can then use the Dealer Standard logo in marketing materials and tenders, while also becoming a member of the AFP at large.

Dealers looking for more details can visit www.theafp.co.uk/afp-dealer-standard/ or email [email protected].