Aston Barclay gets 100% physical from February

Aston Barclay has announced that it will be returning to a 100% physical auction model to its 15 weekly sales on 1st February 2023. This is the first time the auction group will have driven all used cars and LCVs through the halls since March 2020 when the Covid pandemic struck.

This move to physical follows the increasing attendance in the halls where cars and LCVs have long since been lined up for buyers to view ahead of sales. A recent survey of used car buyers also found there is a strong appetite for every vehicle to be driven through the lanes at auction, as buyers can better appraise the stock they are buying for their forecourts.

All used stock will continue to be available for online buyers with one third of vehicles predicted to be purchased digitally and two-thirds by buyers in the auction halls.

Aston Barclay has been running a hybrid physical and online option for buyers for ex-dealer part exchange, LCV and Motability stock since April 2021, while ex-fleet, leasing and OEM sales have been offered for sale online.

“The past few years have seen a lot of changes in the remarketing industry, and during that time we’ve been listening to our customers. Our most recent buyer survey showed that our customers appreciate the choice of buying channels – either in person or online.

“This move to a 100% physical sales programme is a response to the changing needs of our customers, especially as the type of vehicle buyers seek may be changing. We look forward to welcoming new and existing buyers to our six auction halls,” explained Tom Marley, Aston Barclay’s group chief executive.