Crime affecting the used vehicle sector is the focus of the first Vehicle Remarketing Association (VRA) member meeting of 2026.
The meeting will take place at epyx’s Meriden offices on 22 January, covering topics including the rise of ghost plates, clocking, keyless theft, and how to improve cyber security.
Philip Nothard, chair at the VRA, said: “The types of crime affecting remarketing are constantly changing and adapting, and we’re planning to use this meeting to examine recent key developments – as well as explaining how to tackle them.
“Ghost plates are a subject that is receiving a lot of publicity in the media, while the JLR attack means cybersecurity is very much a current motor industry topic. Also, odometer fraud and keyless theft are familiar issues that continually evolve.
“With the help of cap hpi, we’ll also be looking at the performance of the used vehicle sector as we head into 2026. Going into the New Year, I’d estimate the mood of our members to be cautiously optimistic – we’re relatively upbeat but keeping an eye on several current downside risks.”
Speakers confirmed so far include Jonathan Hartley, sales and marketing director at Jepson, Mark Rodbert, CEO at idax Software, and Mark Rose, VP and managing director of Tracker Network, with more to follow.
There will also be an in-depth update on the current state of the used car and van market from Chris Plumb, head of current valuations at cap hpi.
Nothard said: “Member meetings are very much the lifeblood of the VRA, providing a forum where the latest industry developments can be discussed in an open and supportive atmosphere.
“We’re looking at covering a wide range of subjects this year, as well as ways to make the Automotive Summit bigger and better than ever.”
The VRA is planning to hold five member meetings during 2026, as well as the annual VRA Automotive Summit on 22 November.
