What is the RMIF, and how can it help motorists?

Buying a motor vehicle is one of the most important purchases that a person makes.

According to one survey, 81 per cent of drivers would find it very difficult to adjust their lifestyle to being without a car.

However, with the amount of information flying around, consumers may be confused by the variety of models on offer, buying methods and the many issues surrounding car servicing and repairs.

If you are thinking about buying a new or used car, booking in for a repair or service, or want to book an MOT, it is advisable to use a reliable service provider that will help, not hinder.

The Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMIF) can help consumers find such a provider if they log onto rmif.co.uk.

Alec Murray, RMIF non-executive chairman explains: ‘The RMIF is a trade association, representing franchised car dealers, independent garages, bodyshops, commercial vehicle dealers, motorcycle dealers, motorcycle rider training associations, petrol retailers, cherished number plate dealers, and auction houses.’

Here are some facts:

The retail motor industry is the largest UK retail sector, employing 600,000 people.

Its annual turnover, including new and used cars, is a staggering £85 billion.

Murray continues: ‘There is no reason for any member of the public to suffer at the hands of a cowboy operator. Businesses that join the RMIF are bound by the conditions of their membership to provide a good service to their customers. This is backed by our strong relationship with the Trading Standards Service. We have more than 40 partnership schemes with Trading Standards offices across the country. The RMIF takes its responsibilities towards the consumer very seriously.'

RMIF members must pass a rigorous inspection before they are admitted to the Federation. Members are expected to maintain a high standard of service for the motoring public by providing suitable premises, equipment, and trained personnel.
The RMIF also represents the industry. Its aims are to:

increase industry standards via quality control schemes and training programmes

create conditions for more wealth and more jobs

support and represent the retail motor sector in Parliament, Government and the European Union: the RMIF represents members to the press and the motor industry, and lobbies Government on important issues such as employment law, the Block Exemption Regulation, the MOT test, minimum wage, and the environmental effect of the motor vehicle

How do you find RMIF members?

Online: Log onto rmif.co.uk to use the Find-A-Service function
By phone: Call the RMIF Consumer Motorline - 08457 58 53 50

Both routes enable you to find local RMIF garages and franchised dealerships; motorcycle dealers and rider training associations; bodyshops; auction houses; cherished number plate dealers; and petrol retailers in your area.

Murray explains: ‘By just logging on or making a phone call, consumers can rest assured that they will be advised of the names of reliable RMIF member businesses. They will adhere to the principles of quality service, sales, information, guidance and customer care.’

As an added assurance, many problems that may arise and which cannot be solved through direct consultation with the member can be forwarded to the RMIF's National Conciliation Service.

Murray concludes: ‘The RMIF unites the voices of the retail motor industry. Call the Motorline or log onto www.rmif.co.uk and put yourself in touch with an RMIF member today.’