Choose Automotive campaign launches to tackle staff shortage in car dealerships

The National Franchised Dealers Association is launching a campaign entitled #ChooseAutomotive to make GCSE and A-level exam students more aware of the varied jobs and careers available in automotive retail and repair.

The NFDA is committed to inspiring young individuals to explore the variety of apprenticeships or entry-level roles within dealer groups through its employment initiative, Drive My Career.

“With nearly 600,000 people working in the retail side of the automotive sector across the UK and diverse career options in sales, finance, marketing, social media, policy, HR, and more, this industry is full of possibilities," said NFDA chief executive Sue Robinson.

"It's time we debunk the old misconceptions surrounding our industry. This sector stands as a gateway to fulfilling careers, offering numerous apprenticeships across diverse sectors, ensuring a level playing field for individuals from all backgrounds and genders to cultivate essential skills.”

On A-level results day, 17 August, Drive My Career will launch the campaign #chooseautomotive and will share videos, testimonials and posts raising awareness on the benefits of embarking on a career in the motor retail industry.

Earlier this year the Institute of the Motor Industry warned that automotive businesses are missing out on apprenticeships that could help fill the skills gap.

Funding is available through the Government’s apprenticeship levy scheme, yet the latest data in the IMI’s Automotive Education Report suggests this is underutilised in the automotive sector - on average, 65% of all apprenticeships in the UK are supported by levy funds, but just 52% of automotive apprenticeships received such support in 2022, leaving the sector in the bottom third of all UK sectors hiring apprentices.

The NFDA will also be exhibiting at the British Motor Show in Farnborough this week. A Future of Automotive Retailing discussion on the first day of the motor show will include insights from Robinson plus Nick King from Auto Trader, Steve Young of ICDP and Alastair Cassels of MHA Macintyre Hudson.

Its Drive My Career team will also be on the IMI Tech Hub each morning to share insights into careers within the automotive industry and to offer guidance on pathways.

Robinson (pictured) said: "We are thrilled to be back at the British Motor Show, an event that has become a cherished tradition for NFDA. Our participation highlights our commitment to promoting career opportunities, driving innovation, and advancing the electrification revolution.

"We look forward to sparking interest in the minds of the youth and their families while paving the way for a more sustainable automotive future.”