Internet Sales Tips
"Getting the Edge"--M. Miller

Today's net-savvy dealer doesn't need to be told that Internet used-vehicle classifieds deliver incremental sales, expanded reach, decreased marketing costs and faster turns. That's old news. What's really new is that these Internet channels are also a powerhouse of valuable data that will ultimately reshape how used vehicle managers handle, and plan, purchase and re-market inventory.

Information about what consumers want and don't want, as well as what they look at but don't buy, is no longer the exclusive-and costly-domain of market research consultants. Thanks to the Internet, the digital dealer can now begin to access consumer demand data that not only provides a clear snapshot of current local market conditions, but points to trends that translate into new revenue streams and stronger bottom lines.

Dealer Magazine Article (Feb. 2004)
Partner with Other Retail to Expand Your Advertising Reach
Some effective ideas for working with others to sell more cars--by Jim Boldebook

      Partnering with another non-competitive retail advertiser can be a highly effective, inexpensive method of brand building. Over the years many successful dealers have shared cooperative efforts that have worked well for them. Here are a few of those ideas:

      Dodge dealer Joe M. and his sales team buy lots of sandwiches from the popular deli down the street that sells in excess of 4,000 sandwiches a week. Joe suggested to the deli owner that the sandwich shop name a sandwich after the dealership! Now Joe's name is on a sandwich described in the menu as "loaded all the options no baloney... just a great deal!" Joe includes gift certificates for two deli sandwiches to every new and used vehicle customer and regularly orders up sandwiches for dealership meetings and parties. Joe also provides free sandwich bags to the deli with an ad for his dealership on one side of the bag.

      Paul, a Chevy dealer, partners with a local courier service. He gives the company a special deal on all of its vehicles in exchange for a painted ad for the dealership on one side and on the back of the vans. The courier service receives $100 per month, per van for parts and services. The highly visible trucks are in constant service in Paul's primary trade zone and a unique 800 number (only on the trucks) has generated substantial leads for the dealership.

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