That’s it, another year finished – well almost. AM has published its final publication edition of the year, but that doesn’t mean we will be putting our feet up and breaking into the Christmas pies just yet.

We might not have another paper product out until the New Year (January 12, to be precise), but we will still keep you at the forefront of all latest news via our am-online website and daily email news bulletins.

New this year is the AM Forum, which provides you with an opportunity to chat to your peers, pose questions, spark industry tittle-tattle or share best practice. The number of users is rising, with some lively debate and thought-provoking postings. And, as you’d expect, there’s also a fair share of banter and controversy. Take a look and have your say.

The internet is changing the way everyone does business. We have some exciting plans to make our website more interactive, including adding video of new car launches and putting clips of interviews with dealer bosses and manufacturer executives online.

We’re looking to use the internet in more innovative ways – and you should be, too. Websites should not just be about putting stock online or giving directions to the dealership (although some sites fail in this simple task). Use them to promote special events and allow online service bookings. Download video clips of interviews with management and customer-facing staff to improve familiarity and put a face on the business.

Above all, consider the different ways that people, especially youngsters, are using the technology like the internet or text messaging to communicate, buy and sell, and adapt your business accordingly.

Merry Christmas. See you in 2007.