Driving home ‘fair trade’ message

MOTOR dealers will meet with trading standards officials from across South Yorkshire tomorrow as part of a renewed effort to give potential car buyers confidence in their purchases.

The South Yorkshire Motor Trade Partnership was set up nine years ago and aims to set a standard among car dealers which ensures that consumers are not ripped off or left with problem vehicles.

Organisers said 80 businesses had signed up to the scheme which has obtained national recognition for its “fair trading” charter, which covers every stage of the car buying process.

This year’s seminar will be hosted at Tankersley Manor hotel and will involve trading standards officers from all four South Yorkshire districts and guest speakers from car dealers including Sheffield’s Hatfields Jaguar.

An event spokesman said: “The present economic climate continues to provide real challenges for local businesses, not least the retail motor trade.

“Customer satisfaction and a commitment to fair trading remains the focus of the partnership, providing consumers with that extra reassurance and support with their vehicle purchase.”