Inchcape plc, the world’s leading car retailer, is delighted to announce that its on-line retail operating system for tracking its customer-centric performance across the 26 countries in which it operates, has won the global Microsoft Technology Innovation Partner of the Year award in Data Management / Business Intelligence Solutions.

Developed by its systems innovation partner, Information Management Group Ltd (IMGroup), the Inchcape Advantage portal was recognised from over 1800 entries for the most innovative use of technology and business solutions.

Inchcape Advantage is Inchcape’s strategic initiative designed to put the customer at the heart of the business and includes the tracking of its own mystery shop performance, retail metrics and an innovative satisfaction measure of both buyers and non-buyers.

The technology solution has become an integral part of day-to-day global operations and is paramount to the future success of Inchcape as it drives differentiation through outstanding customer service.

Andre Lacroix, Group Chief Executive of Inchcape plc, commented:

“We are extremely pleased that we have been able to work with IMGroup to develop such a customer-centric business tool. We are committed to creating the ultimate customer experience for our brand partners. This highly successful retail operating system is improving the productivity of our people by freeing up their time thus allowing them to spend more time with our customers. It is therefore a fitting sentiment to be recognised with such a high accolade.”

- Ends -

For further information, please contact:

Group Communications, Inchcape plc

+44 (0) 20 7546 0022

Financial Dynamics (Jonathon Brill/Billy Clegg)

+44 (0) 20 7831 3113

Notes to editors

Inchcape plc is the leading independent, international automotive retailer, with scale operations in Australia, Belgium, Greece, Hong Kong, Singapore and the UK. The Group also has operations in a number of other markets, including Eastern Europe, the Baltics, Russia and South America. In addition to growing its core businesses, Inchcape is looking to develop scale operations in new and emerging regions. It represents leading automotive brands and operates either a retail, or a vertically integrated retail model (i.e. exclusive distribution and retail), depending on the market. Inchcape’s core brand partners are Audi, BMW, Honda, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Subaru, Toyota/Lexus and Volkswagen.