Dealer Tech Talk

In this episode of Dealer Tech Talk, Simon Verona is joined by Neil Smith from Motorvait to explore one of the biggest challenges facing modern dealerships: understanding the numbers that actually drive performance.From lead generation and conversion to technology overload and lost opportunities across the sales funnel, this conversation looks at where dealers are still falling short and what practical steps they can take to improve.Neil shares insights from his experience at Imperial Cars, Cazoo, and now Motorvait, including how the right systems, processes, and data visibility can transform dealership performance at scale.In this episode, we discuss: Why most dealers still don’t know their real lead numbers  How Imperial scaled from 80 cars a month to over 2,000  Why tech only works when it fits the process  The challenge of too many disconnected tools  Where dealers lose customers in the sales funnel  Why part exchange remains a major point of attrition  How to identify the biggest opportunities for improvement  The one thing dealers should go away and do today If you want to improve performance without just adding more systems, this episode is packed with practical insight.

Dealers invest heavily to bring customers into their ecosystem.But too often, that journey gets broken.In this episode of Dealer Tech Talk, Simon Verona is joined by Gary Monaghan, Founder & CEO of Digital Remarketing Solutions and part of the team behind Freeway Motors.Together, they explore how dealers are losing control of the customer journey — especially when it comes to part exchange, stock sourcing, and third-party platforms.In this episode, we cover:• Why stock sourcing is one of the biggest challenges dealers face today • How third-party platforms sit between dealers and customers • The concept of “dealer-first digital” and why control matters • Why part exchange is often the weakest part of the digital journey • How remote vehicle appraisal is changing the process • The problem with fragmented customer journeys • How Freeway Motors enables dealers to retain control while still accessing wider markets • Why integration between systems is critical for the futureIf you want to reduce friction, improve conversions, and keep control of your customers — this episode is a must-watch.🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts 📥 Download guides at https://www.dealertechtalk.uk/guides

Every dealership takes payments.But very few dealerships ever stop to look at how those payments actually flow through the business — and the friction that process creates.In this episode of Dealer Tech Talk, Simon Verona breaks down the four main types of dealership payments and the operational challenges behind each one.From standalone card machines to online payments, bank transfers, and pay later products — most dealerships are still relying on disconnected systems that create unnecessary admin, errors, and inefficiencies.In this episode, we cover:• The four main types of payments dealerships process • Why card machines are still disconnected from the DMS • The hidden complexity behind online payments • Why bank transfers create reconciliation headaches • How pay later products can increase sales — but also admin • The real cost of disconnected payment systems • Why the industry is moving toward integrated payment infrastructure • A simple exercise to uncover friction in your own dealershipIf you want to reduce admin, improve accuracy, and streamline operations, this episode will change how you think about payments.🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts 📥 Download guides at https://www.dealertechtalk.uk/guides

Many dealerships run both a CRM and a Dealer Management System (DMS).But surprisingly, many dealers are still unclear about what each system actually does.In this episode of Dealer Tech Talk, Simon Verona explains the real difference between CRM and DMS systems, how they overlap, and why poor integration between the two can create duplicate work, data problems and operational friction.If you're reviewing your dealership systems, this episode will help you understand how CRM and DMS should work together.In this episode we cover:• What a CRM actually does in a dealership• What a DMS is responsible for• Where CRM and DMS systems overlap• Integrated CRM vs standalone CRM• The biggest mistakes dealers make with their systemsThe key question every dealership should ask is simple:Where is the single source of truth for your dealership data?Dealer Tech Talk is the podcast where we break down how technology really works inside car and motorhome dealerships.No jargon. No sales fluff. Just practical insights.Sponsored by:DMS NavigatorHelping dealerships run more efficiently and profitably.Miles CompanionThe customer app that keeps buyers connected long after the sale.Listen to more episodeshttps://www.dealertechtalk.uk

Voice AI used to feel experimental.Clunky. Robotic. Not quite ready for real customers.That’s changed.In this episode of Dealer Tech Talk, Simon Verona explores how voice AI has crossed a threshold — moving from novelty technology to something that can deliver measurable operational benefits in dealerships today.We cut through the hype and focus on reality:What voice AI actually is Where it works well today Where it doesn’t Why integration with your DMS is critical How it reduces missed calls and staff interruptions What happens when AI is deployed into broken processes Where outbound AI calling is heading nextVoice AI is not about replacing people. It’s about handling repeatable, structured conversations so your team can focus on higher-value interactions.If you’re running a dealership and haven’t yet thought seriously about voice AI, this episode explains why now is the time.🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts 📥 Download the free guide at https://www.dealertechtalk.uk/guidesDealer Tech Talk is sponsored by DMS Navigator and MyAutoCompanion.

Is investing in a new DMS really worth it — or is it just another cost dealerships are forced to accept?In this solo episode of Dealer Tech Talk, Simon Verona tackles one of the most common (and quietly asked) questions in the motor trade: what is the real ROI of a dealer management system?Rather than focusing on software features or price, Simon breaks down where DMS value actually comes from — efficiency, consistency, scalability, and better use of people’s time — and why the mindset dealers have towards their DMS often determines whether they see a return at all.In this episode, we cover:Why a DMS doesn’t directly “sell” — and why that misses the pointHow efficiency and process drive real profitabilityThe biggest mistakes dealers make when implementing a DMSWhy poor integration creates wasted time and hidden costsHow better data visibility improves decision-makingWhy changing a DMS alone won’t fix broken business processesWhat high-performing dealers do differently to achieve 5x–10x ROI■ If you’re a Dealer Principal, Manager, or Business Owner considering a DMS change — or wondering if you’re getting enough value from your current system — this episode will help you rethink how ROI is really created.■ Download the guide that accompanies this episode:https://www.dealertechtalk.uk/guides■ SponsorsDMS Navigator — the Dealer Management System that boosts efficiency, improves customer service, and helps dealers grow profits.https://www.dmsnavigator.com/MyAutoCompanion — the customer app that keeps buyers connected, increases retention, and grows lifetime dealer revenue.https://www.myautocompanion.com/

AI is everywhere in automotive — but what does it mean for dealerships today, and where is it really heading?In this episode of Dealer Tech Talk, host Simon Verona sits down with Gerard Thatcher, automotive veteran and founder of MotorTech.ai, to cut through the hype and explore the future of dealership AI from a dealer’s perspective.With over 30 years in the motor trade, Gerard explains how AI agents are already transforming sales, lead nurturing, and customer experience — and why the smartest dealerships are using AI to support their people, not replace them.Together, we discuss:• What AI agents really are (and how they differ from basic chatbots)• Where AI delivers the biggest wins for dealerships today• How AI can nurture leads, qualify customers, and improve conversion rates• The risks of “bad AI” — and what dealers must look for in secure, compliant solutions• How sales teams and AI can work together to drive better outcomes• What the next 2–5 years of dealership AI will realistically look like■ Whether you’re a Dealer Principal, Sales Manager, or Automotive Leader, this episode will help you understand how to adopt AI with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.■ Download the guide that accompanies this episode athttps://www.dealertechtalk.uk/guides ■ SponsorsDMS Navigator — the Dealer Management System that boosts efficiency, improves customer service, and helps dealers grow profits.https://www.dmsnavigator.com/MyAutoCompanion — the customer app that keeps buyers connected, increases retention, and grows lifetime dealer revenue.https://www.myautocompanion.com/

Do  dealerships really need their own app — or is a website enough?In this episode of Dealer Tech Talk, host Simon Verona explores how dealer apps are becoming one of the most powerful tools for customer retention, brand loyalty, and operational efficiency across car and motorhome dealerships.Customers expect faster, more personal digital experiences. Apps deliver exactly that — from service tracking and booking to push notifications, invoice payments, and long-term customer engagement.In this episode, we cover:Why apps outperform websites and email for customer engagementHow apps improve brand loyalty and repeat businessReal dealer examples using apps to reduce calls, queues, and adminHow service tracking and in-app payments transform the customer experienceWhy even 20–30% app adoption can make a major operational differenceWhen dealerships should start their app journey — and how to do it properlyIf customers track pizza deliveries on their phone, why wouldn’t they expect the same transparency when their car is in for service?This episode also explains how dealer apps benefit your team, not just your customers — freeing staff from repetitive admin and allowing them to focus on high-value customer interactions.📘 Download the free guide that accompanies this episode:https://www.dealertechtalk.uk/guides🎙️ Dealer Tech Talk explores how technology is transforming car and motorhome dealerships.Sponsored by:DMS Navigator — the Dealer Management System designed to help you be more efficient, deliver better customer service, and improve profits.MyAutoCompanion — the customer app that increases retention, keeps buyers connected, and improves lifetime customer income and profit.

What does it really take to build dealer software that works in the real world?In this episode of Dealer Tech Talk, host Simon Verona sits down with Conor Moran, founder of Eskimo Software, to talk openly about the realities of building software for car dealerships.They explore:Why many dealer systems struggle with adoptionWhat dealers actually need from modern dealer softwareThe balance between powerful features and simple day-to-day usabilityLessons learned from building and scaling a dealership technology platformWhere dealer software and digital retailing are heading nextThis is a practical, honest conversation for independent and franchised dealers, dealer principals, and anyone involved in choosing, using, or building dealer technology.🎙 About Dealer Tech TalkDealer Tech Talk is the podcast for car and motorhome dealers, exploring how technology can improve efficiency, customer experience, and profitability.🌐 Download free guides at https://www.dealertechtalk.uk/guides🎯 Sponsored by:DMS Navigator — the Dealer Management System designed to help you work more efficiently, stay compliant, and improve profits.MyAutoCompanion — increasing customer retention, keeping buyers connected, and improving lifetime customer income and profit.👍 If you found this useful, like, subscribe, and turn on notifications so you don’t miss future episodes.

In this episode of Dealer Tech Talk, Simon walks  through the 7 most common problems dealerships face with their DMS systems, and how to avoid them.From hidden costs and compliance gaps to poor onboarding and clunky user experiences, these are the lessons every dealer should know before choosing or upgrading their system.💡 Key takeaway: The best DMS fits your people and processes, not the other way around.🎧 Tune in now and make sure your DMS works for you, not against📥 Download the accompanying guide here:  https://www.dealertechtalk.uk/guides Dealer Tech Talk is proudly sponsored by:DMS Navigator — improving efficiency, service, and profitability.MyAutoCompanion — boosting retention, connection, and lifetime customer value.

In Episode 4 of Dealer Tech Talk, Simon Verona dives deep into one of the most transformative topics in the motor trade today: AI Agents — what they are, how they work, and why dealerships need to start implementing them now.If you aren’t looking at AI in your dealership today, you’ll be outperformed by someone who is.But it’s not about using AI… it’s about using it intelligently.In this episode, Simon breaks down everything dealers need to know to get ahead.Practical Takeaways for Dealers:• Start with one workflow (service bookings or lead triage are ideal).• Demand evidence from vendors: ROI, pilot results, audit logs.• Implement AI where it enhances your people — not replaces them.Listen, Learn & Level Up;Dealer Tech Talk is proudly sponsored by:DMS Navigator — improving efficiency, service, and profitability.MyAutoCompanion — boosting retention, connection, and lifetime customer value.Download the supporting guides:https://www.dealertechtalk.uk/guides

What you’ll discover in this episode:How AI agents like Johnny5 handle repetitive tasks and improve first-time responses.The importance of knowledge management for effective AI.AI in help desk operations and internal support.Upcoming AI innovations, including voice assistants for instant customer interaction.Advice for newcomers to technology and AI roles.Sponsors:DMS Navigator – Dealer Management System that boosts efficiency, customer service, and profits.MyAutoCompanion – App that increases retention, keeps buyers connected, and improves lifetime customer income.Downloadable guides and resources: www.dealertechtalk.uk/guides🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe to Dealer Tech Talk on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform for more insights on technology transforming dealerships.

Running a dealership can be rewarding — but it can also be stressful, overwhelming, and at times, isolating. In this episode of Dealer Tech Talk, Simon Verona is joined by Tim Hargraves, executive coach and founder of The Motor Coach.After more than 20 years leading dealerships at Marriott Motor Group, Tim now helps automotive managers and leaders beat overwhelm, rebuild confidence, and rediscover their passion for the motor trade.Together, we discuss:- The biggest causes of stress for dealership leaders today- Why imposter syndrome and burnout are common in the motor industry- Simple mindset shifts to reduce overwhelm- How coaching can transform leadership and work-life balance- The skills future dealership leaders will need in an AI-driven world■ Whether you’re a Dealer Principal, Manager, or Rising Leader, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you thrive.■ Download Tim's Guide that goes with this podcast at https://www.dealertechtalk.uk/guides■ Sponsors- DMS Navigator —  the DMS that boosts efficiency, delivers enhanced customer service and helps  dealers grow profits.- MyAutoCompanion — The customer app that keeps buyers connected, improves retention, andincreases lifetime dealer revenue.

Auto Trader’s new Deal Builder feature has triggered one of the strongest reactions the motor trade has seen in years. Many dealers are questioning its impact on leads, data, finance, and overall control of the sales process.In this special roundtable episode, Simon Verona brings together dealers and industry experts to explore what Deal Builder means for the independent sector — and whether now is the time to reduce reliance on Auto Trader.What We DiscussWhat Deal Builder actually isHow it changes the customer journeyWhy dealers are frustratedThe loss of deep links and its impactThe effect on finance, warranty and profitabilityAre dealer complaints justified?Practical alternativesHow to diversify your lead sources safelySteps to reduce dependency on Auto Trader‍Who’s On the PanelJim Reid — Jim Reid Vehicle SalesJosh Apps — V12 AutomobilFraser Brown — MotorviseGary Monaghan — Digital Remarketing SolutionsIan Godbold — IGC DigitalNeil Smith — MotorvaitHosted by: Simon VeronaDownload the guide that accompanies the episode from https://www.dealertechtalk.uk/guides

In this episode, Simon Verona breaks down typical price ranges, what drives costs up or down, and the hidden fees to watch out for. Plus, discover why forward-thinking dealers view their DMS not as a cost, but as an investment in efficiency, compliance, and profit.Download our Guide to How Much a Dealer Management System should cost in 2025 at https://www.dealertechtalk.uk/guides ■ Sponsored by DMS Navigator — the Dealer Management System to help you be more efficient, deliver better customer service and improve profits — and MyAutoCompanion —increasing customer retention, keeping

Episode 1 .... the beginning!Cybersecurity isn’t just for big corporates — dealerships are at risk too.In this inaugural episode of Dealer Tech Talk, Simon Verona explores the biggest threats (from phishing to ransomware), lessons from recent attacks at JLR and M&S, and what every dealer can do to prepare. Learn how to reduce risks, build a Cyber Security Guide, create a Disaster Recovery Plan, and two quick wins you can implement today.Also, download our Dealer Tech Talk Guide to Cyber Security from https://www.dealertechtalk.uk/guides