IMDA members will have access not only to SilverBullet’s full e-commerce platform for used, new and aftersales but also to the company’s world-class training resource.

With the IMDA already providing an extensive knowledge-sharing platform for hundreds of members across the UK, partnering with SilverBullet will provide them with access to materials, webinars, and best practice guides to ensure more website visitors are turned into sales.

Umesh Samani, chairman of the IMDA, said: “With one of the core pillars of the IMDA being to support our dealer members, we have partnered with SilverBullet to help guide dealerships through what can sometimes be the complex world of ecommerce.

“With a year of lockdowns proving to be a catalyst of consumers to start buying more cars online, and many more online retailers joining the market, we want to make sure IMDA members have the tools to compete and that they are not left behind.

“By partnering with SilverBullet, we will make sure IMDA members get access not only to software that can help them sell online, but also to training to help owners and staff members best serve these customers.”

Cameron Wade, SilverBullet’s managing director, added: “We are delighted to have been invited into partnership with the IMDA and I am certain our platform will help its members to close more profitable deals online.

“A strong independent motor trade sector is vital to the whole industry and SilverBullet is determined to help IMDA members compete with new online players.

“Since the beginning of lockdown, we have been doing everything we can to make sure dealerships can sell cars online and as we emerge from lockdown and see a rise in demand, we are looking forward to showing more independent dealers how they can make more margin, reduce costs and increase conversion rates through ecommerce.

“Consumers are now more empowered than ever with the information they need to make informed buying decisions and are increasingly buying online. This shift in behaviour has resulted in an increased requirement to have a flawless online presence.

“SilverBullet is providing customer-facing ecommerce solutions for dealers which boost the three core revenue streams of sales, service and parts.”