[RMI] GET ON THE ROAD TO CHRISTMAS

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The Retail Motor Industry Federation represents the interests of operators in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man, providing sales and services to motorists and businesses. Retail Motor Industry Training (ReMIT) is the training division of the RMI. The RMI has a formal association with the independent Scottish Motor Trade Association which represents the retail motor industry in Scotland.



AW/179/F/November 2005

GET ON THE ROAD TO CHRISTMAS

Christmas gifts for loved ones are not easy to find, year after year. In the coming weeks, high streets and shopping centres will be full of desperate shoppers searching for original and exciting presents.

However those shoppers could be hunting in the wrong place. They should have a look at the car - the possibilities are endless:

car wash, wax polish, buffing cloths, glass cleaner, and air fresheners
in-car safety box, including first aid kit, warning triangle etc
rug for cold weather, and equally useful for picnics in summer
new car mats and seat/steering wheel
roof-rack or roof-mounted carrier - useful for those who regularly transport bicycles
steering wheel lock or full infra-red system
manufacturer merchandise: most car makers produce their own ranges which can include everything from pens and watches to t-shirts and umbrellas
CDs and tapes to feed in-car stereo systems
alloy wheels and body repair kits
a new set of spark plugs, a tool box, or a workshop manual
Those planning to spend a little more could invest in a personalised number plate. Justin Tidmarsh, head of the Retail Motor Industry Federation’s (RMI) Cherished Numbers Dealers Association, said: ‘A personalised, or cherished, number plate is a superb idea for a Christmas gift. You may wish to pay for someone else to buy one, or alternatively why not simply treat yourself?’

If you really want to get into the festive spirit, there are still lots of suitable numbers available on the market. Have you considered XMA 55S or XX05 MAS!

According to Tidmarsh, cherished numbers can also have a practical application: ‘A new plate could be used to promote an individual’s business.’

Though they were once quite a rare sight on Britain’s roads, demand for plates has soared over the past few years, and now tens of thousands are traded annually. The RMI’s Cherished Number Dealers Association (CNDA) at www.cnda.co.uk can take the sting out of the buying process.

Tidmarsh explains: ‘You may find yourself confused when researching such a vast market, but to ensure a trouble-free retail experience, contact the RMI’s CNDA. It exists to guide consumers through the maze of buying, selling, and valuation. Don’t be put off by the complexities of shopping for a personalised number plate. It isn’t difficult when you have the right people assisting you. Entrusting a stranger with cash and valuable documents before the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has authorised your registration to be displayed may be unsettling, as is organising the transfer itself. Dealers who are members of the RMI will be able to provide an efficient service.’

According to Tidmarsh, the CNDA can also give advice on the issues surrounding cherished numbers: ‘If you like the idea of buying a personalised number plate, you should buy from a reputable dealer. It is important to stay within the law, so make sure you fully understand the regulations.’

Some cherished numbers may even appreciate in value over the years, providing an additional bonus to the lucky recipient in the event that it is eventually sold. Tidmarsh explains: ‘The value of a number can vary depending on economic climate and public demand, so the CNDA offers a valuation service, which can be a useful tool for those looking to trade in an existing number plate.’

Tidmarsh concludes: ‘Hopefully, motoring-related gifts will be just what are needed to get you on the road to a happy Christmas.’



ENDS



NOTES TO EDITORS

RMI ISDN line: 020 7637 0231

Gary Elliott, RMI Director of Sales and Marketing: 020 7307 3424

Press Office direct line: 020 7307 3424

Press Office fax: 020 7580 6376

Web: www.rmif.co.uk

E-mail: press@rmif.co.uk

The Retail Motor Industry Federation represents the interests of operators in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man, providing sales and services to motorists and businesses. Retail Motor Industry Training (ReMIT) is the training division of the RMI. The RMI has a formal association with the independent Scottish Motor Trade Association which represents the retail motor industry in Scotland.