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The New Automotive Forecourt

Richard Hayden
5 min read
June 12, 2026
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The new automotive forecourt.

It’s safe to say the motor industry has transformed dramatically over the years, but one thing hasn’t changed for consumers: choosing a new car is a major commitment, and one you want to get right.

Not so long ago, the average family had a fairly limited choice, perhaps four or five makes and models within reach.

Fast forward to today, and everything has escalated.

The industry is moving at an extraordinary pace. A constant stream of new manufacturers and spin‑off brands is entering the market, each bringing its own technologies and its own vision of motoring — an idea, an aspiration, a lifestyle.

With hybrid and fully electric vehicles now competing alongside traditional petrol and diesel engines, the landscape has never been more crowded. Competition for attention is fierce.

For consumers, this is fantastic: more choice than ever.

In our household, we’re fortunate to be part of a company car scheme. It makes the decision‑making process easier, more structured, and far less daunting if we were to get it wrong. After all, love or hate our choice, we get to hand it back after three years. But for most people, a car will need to keep pleasing long after 3 years have passed.

So, where to begin?

For many, it will start with a visit to a local dealership. Who’s nearby? What catches your eye? Are they in budget?

Location alone may automatically rule out some brands. I know all too well that the nearest dealership for several of the major car manufacturers is over 20 miles away, and that is an effort.

But what if the first place you encounter a new car isn’t a dealership at all?

Car product placement on a high street in a town centre.

What if it’s the car park of your local Morrisons… or the atrium of your favourite shopping centre?

This kind of everyday, unexpected exposure can be incredibly powerful. One curious passer‑by becomes thousands when you consider the footfall through retail parks and city centres.

Suddenly, brands have direct access to an audience that’s relaxed, unpressured, and open to discovering something new.

Taking cars directly to the public isn’t a new concept — but it has never been more relevant.

As landlords and retailers increasingly recognise the value of third‑party promotions, new opportunities are emerging for dealerships to connect with potential customers in meaningful, memorable ways.

And that’s where Access Point comes in.

With nearly three decades of experience in promotional space and product placement, Access Point specialises in positioning brands within high‑footfall retail environments across the UK to maximise exposure.

Whether you’re launching a new model, introducing a new brand, or simply looking to increase visibility, we can help.

From shopping centres and retail parks to supermarkets, leading garden centre groups, and busy town and city centres — we’ll help you find the right environment to reach your audience.

Let’s start the conversation and explore which venues could work best for your brand.

Using our Venue Locator, you can quickly search for locations that suit your audience and campaign goals. If you’d like advice or support with booking the right space, our experienced team is always happy to help.

Get in touch today to start planning your next product placement marketing campaign.

FAQs
What is product placement

Product placement is a form of direct marketing where brands interact with customers in person. It often takes place in high-footfall locations such as shopping centres, garden centres, supermarkets, and town and city centres.

Why is product placement so effective?

It allows brands to build personal connections, answer questions instantly, demonstrate products, and create memorable experiences that improve customer engagement.

Where can brands run face-to-face marketing campaigns in the UK?

Popular locations include shopping centres, supermarkets, retail parks, garden centres, exhibitions, and busy town or city centres.

How do you find promotional venues in the UK?

Businesses can use venue platforms such as Access Point to locate and book high-footfall promotional spaces nationwide.

Richard Hayden
5 min read
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