The National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) is a UK-based trade association representing franchised car, truck, and motorcycle dealers. Founded with the mission to amplify the influence of franchised dealers with both UK and European governments, NFDA focuses on fostering a balanced and constructive relationship between dealers, manufacturers, and policymakers. The association advocates on key EU policy areas including the internal market, competition, transport, consumer protection, and industry regulations. NFDA actively engages with EU institutions to promote the value and benefits of franchised dealers to consumers and to influence legislation affecting automotive retail businesses.
NFDA’s lobbying efforts encompass a range of issues impacting dealers daily, such as manufacturer relations, used car markets, finance and insurance, and aftersales services. It supports initiatives to improve air quality and accelerate electric vehicle adoption while also defending the interests of diesel vehicles and criticizing policies like Clean Air Zones that may financially impact sectors such as haulage.
The association operates under the umbrella of the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMIF), which includes other automotive retail groups, and is part of the Europe-wide Alliance of European Car Dealers and Repairers (AECDR), which advocates for dealer interests at the European level. NFDA runs programs like “Drive My Career” to promote automotive retail careers and “Electric Vehicle Approved” (EVA), an accreditation scheme endorsed by government bodies to certify excellence in electric vehicle retailing.
NFDA’s lobbying is carried out by a small dedicated team, led by Director Sue Robinson, who also holds a directorship at RMIF. The association maintains a transparent profile through its registration in the EU Transparency Register since March 2015, disclosing its lobbying activities, financial expenditures, and affiliations. Its efforts are focused on ensuring that the voice of franchised dealers is heard in EU policymaking, supporting members through advocacy, information, and industry initiatives
