Carmax goes for certified pre-owned niche

Chad Bryan, Gleaner Writer

In light of what he says is the shrinking number of vehicles being imported into the island by used-car dealers, Carmax Managing Director Ian Lyn has decided to enter the pre-owned certified segment of the automotive industry.

"The last importation number that we have gotten is approximately 7,000 used cars into Jamaica in 2013. Now, if you know the used-car industry, you will know we are coming from 35,000 importations. What I can tell you is that sales are not good at all," he said. "With a 7,000 importation and probably a sale of 3,000 (used cars), and I have seen an increase of almost 6,000 sales in the new-car industry, I have decided to move in the middle, on the border. I have no intention of remaining in an industry or area that is declining. We are trying to set Carmax's certified pre-owned apart," Lyn said.

inspection programme

Being certified means cars sold through Carmax Jamaica have gone through a thorough inspection programme, which assures potential purchasers that the vehicle has been serviced, maintained and is in sound mechanical condition. Entering the certified pre-owned niche makes Carmax the second and now largest pre-owned auto dealership (by vehicle count) in Jamaica, behind ATL Automotive's certified pre-owned arm.

"An 'A' certified mechanic will go through the vehicle before the vehicle is delivered," Lyn said.

Lyn made the announcement at Carmax's 124 Constant Spring Road, St Andrew, headquarters last Tuesday to members of the media, a few players in the automotive industry and staff members of Scotiabank Jamaica Limited. In order to be considered for the pre-owned certified programme, a vehicle must be in optimum condition.

Sellers utilising the Carmax certified pre-owned programme will be charged a flat rate of $50,000.