It’s business as usual as can be for new-vehicle dealerships in Ontario beginning May 19. That’s when appointments will no longer be needed to shop for a new car at the bricks-and-mortar stores.
Ontario enters Phase 1 of its plan to reopen the economy, and auto dealerships are part of the first set of business to enjoy relaxed restrictions.
Previously, dealerships were closed all together — except their service bays, which were deemed essential services. On May 4, they were allowed to open, but by appointment only. On May 19, they will generally be open but must abide by social-distancing rules and public-health guidelines. That means people in the store should remain two metres — or six feet apart. Masks aren’t required but encouraged and staff should adhere to strict cleaning and hand-washing policies.
On April 30, the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association (CADA) released guidelines for how dealerships can safely operate during the pandemic, including recommendations on how to sell vehicles in-store and offer test drives when allowed.