Dealer declares war
Nobes' advert in the local press
PORTSMOUTH car dealer and self-proclaimed King of Scrappage is going to war - with his local council!
Michael Nobes, dealer principal of south coast firm Richmond Hyundai, is doing battle with Portsmouth City Council because its parking meters don’t give out change.
In an advert in the local press he asks: ‘Coffee and sweet machines give change - so we all know the technology is there. Why don’t parking machines? Doesn’t seem fair does it?’
His advert in The News goes on to say that buyers of Hyundai Coupes would get £5 change from £10,000 - and says it’s the way ‘most businesses work’.
‘Why should the council be any different?’ he adds. ‘I asked them why their meters didn’t give change and their press office said it was “to deter crime”.’
Nobes says he was told the meters would need up to £500 in change in them - making them a target for thieves.
The dealer boss disputes this, but says the bigger question is what happens to the ‘change’ the meters don’t give out?
‘Is it accounted for? If it is, a Freedom of Information request should discover the extent of the “cash cow”. My royal scribes are drafting one now,’ he said.
Be interesting to see how his battle develops - obviously his success under the scrappage scheme has given him new drive! We’ll keep you informed of his progress.
Has your dealership ever battled for the ‘greater good’ - if so let us know. We’d love to hear about it!