Nissan Supports Its Dealer Network With Business Planning

MAPLE CROSS, UNITED KINGDOM – March 26, 2009: Nissan Motor (GB) Limited has announced that it is implementing a programme to support its dealer network through the economic downturn.

Supported by a field based team from apd Group, Richard Clark, Manager of the new Business Planning and Quality Department commented: “Nissan has recently established a Business Planning function in addition to its existing Business Management resource. “The main drivers are the economic climate and the need for dealers to understand, and be prepared for, the ambitious programme of new model launches.

“The purpose of the new function is to provide the dealers with in-depth support in operational and financial performance. This is being carried out through an in-depth financial and operational diagnostic driven primarily by the composite reporting structure and the use of a high level business planning tool which will ensure alignment of the dealer and Nissan Motor (GB) Limited’s business plans.”

Richard Clark is supported by three field based managers and the team of Business Management Consultants from apd Group who will be visiting the Nissan dealers and working with them to develop mid-term business plans which will not only help to ensure they stay viable and profitable, but also highlight areas for the dealers where short, medium and long term opportunities for increased business, improvement in processes, or structural or reporting changes will have a positive impact on their business.

Scott Elliott, apd Group Commercial Director added: “Taking this approach in the current climate demonstrates Nissan Motor (GB) Limited’s commitment to their dealer network and apd are proud to have been chosen as the partner to support this activity. We are confident that the dealers will see real benefit from the hands-on approach our consultants take.”

apd Group is a specialist company providing business management, research and development, training and consultancy to the automotive, aviation, marine and leisure markets.