The training needs analysis and the mystery shops were key in identifying that the team were keen and enthusiastic – but had development needs in a number of areas where training could help.

We embarked on training to support the introduction of all the new initiatives – sales process, documentation, brand identity, customer service and so on.

Hayley Nix, a salesperson who had already been working at Nottingham Autopark for 2 ½ years commented; "I believed I had all the knowledge and experience I needed to be a successful car sales person and to do well in this industry - but with Elaine working along side me I soon realized there were things I could improve on. With her help and support I am now a more confident and educated sales person which reflects in my figures".

In September 2011, Motor Trader Magazine reviewed the top 75 UK Independent Dealers. It reported that as a whole the sector faced a 'unit drop in combined sales volume'.

In the same survey, Nottingham AutoPark came top in the category 'Top 10 improvers by sales volumes'.

Click here to read Motor Trader's "Top 75 Independent Dealers" article, or here to read Motor Trader's "Top 10 Improvers" article.

"By seeing what needed to be done to improve our performance and attitude we are now ranking number one in the most improved car sales in this highly competitive retail market" Derek Webb, General Sales Manager.

As Motor Trader magazine commented "In terms of Top 10 improvers by sales volumes Nottingham AutoPark did outstandingly well considering its' size to increase units sold by 20.7%"