Auto Trader’s omnichannel solution, Deal Builder, is now available to all FCA authorised used car dealers to trial in order to provide consumers with a seamless online-offline retailing experience.
Dealers can manage deals through their Auto Trader Portal account. Deal Builder will eventually be incorporated into Auto Trader’s API solution, Auto Trader Connect, so dealers can manage deals in their own systems.
Via their Auto Trader adverts, business can allow consumers to add a part-exchange, complete a finance application and choose their handover preference before reserving a car. The buyer can then inspect, test drive and finalise their purchase on the forecourt.
During a testing phase, dealers reported more than double the conversion rate of traditional enquiries, with some reporting conversion rates of more than 80%. Deals built through the solution may represent a higher purchase intent than traditional enquiries as consumers complete various tasks online.
In addition, dealers reported a significant reduction in haggling and time spent on admin, as well as convenience and flexibility allowing consumers to begin the car buying process outside of normal trading hours.
Karolina Edwards-Smajda, Auto Trader’s Chief Product Officer, said: “Research shows consumers are keen for a new way of car buying and many retailers across the UK are already making these changes – all retailers must evolve.
“We are here to help and Deal Builder highlights our unwavering commitment to ensuring no retailer is left behind. This is an exciting time as we work with our retailer partners to redefine UK automotive retailing to deliver a new car buying experience.”