It’s Time for Autotrader: What’s next?

Last October, we launched our new brand platform, ‘It’s time for Autotrader’ with the aim of building a stronger connection between Autotrader and the moment that signals it could be time for a new car, to solidify the idea that Autotrader is ‘the’ place to go to buy a car.

Now let’s see where ‘It’s time for Autotrader is heading next…

How has it performed so far

Since it’s launch, the campaign has been well received by audiences and has helped strengthen positive associations between buyers and Autotrader. After seeing our ads, 81% of people said that Autotrader feels like a brand they feel warm towards, while 80% viewed it as a brand they can trust. Knowing that viewers trust and feel positively towards Autotrader helps to build trust and credibility in our platform and thus your adverts.

Year one set a strong foundation, but now we’re ready to build on that momentum.

What next?

We’re launching a new TV campaign this September!

Ahead of the main launch, you’ll start to spot and hear ‘It’s time for Autotrader’ across radio, podcasts and social media. We’ve designed this activity to build familiarity and anticipation before our new TV campaign is revealed in September. Listen out for us on podcasts such as At Home with the Thomas Bros and Staying Relevant again, and national radio stations such as Capital and Kiss.

Last year’s campaign introduced ‘It’s time for Autotrader’ and began building an association between Autotrader and those trigger moments when you realise, maybe you need a new car. This year we’re evolving that idea with a bigger goal: to make Autotrader the undeniable answer when the need for a new car arises.

The new TV campaign creative puts Autotrader at the heart of memorable, recognisably British moments, bringing the ‘maybe it’s time for Autotrader’ line to life in a way that feels distinctive and unmistakably ours. Rather than solely focusing on the person who needs a new car, the stories are told through the eyes and passing comments of the people around them. The campaign makes those moments memorable while reinforcing Autotrader as the UK’s biggest and most trusted car marketplace.

Where to see the new campaign

The campaign launches on the 26th of September, marking our return to TV with high-impact, prime-time ad spots. Alongside TV, the campaign will also appear across streaming, out-of-home billboards, radio, paid social, creators & YouTube. This campaign has been designed to build brand fame through strong reach and high-impact placements.

Take a look at a sneak-peak behind the scenes of the shoot for an early glimpse of what’s coming this September.

At the heart of all this activity is a simple goal: bringing more buyers to Autotrader and helping them find your vehicles. By heavily investing in marketing campaigns like this we can reach a wider audience and drive more buyers to your adverts. This growing audience means more visibility for your stock, and we remain dedicated to keeping our brand, and your vehicle’s front of mind when it comes to buying a car.

FAQ’s

• How does this campaign benefit my dealership?

  The ultimate aim of this campaign is to drive more buyers to the Autotrader platform. The investment into our marketing increases our active audience, which translates to more visibility and eyes on your adverts

• When does it launch?

  The new prime-time TV campaign launches on September 26th, with pre-launch teasers already running across radio, podcasts, and social media.

• How can I make sure my stock stands out to this growing audience?

  Our partnerships team is available to help you maximize your visibility. You can read our best practice guide or book a forecourt review to discuss your specific goals.