Auto Dealer Supplies for a Changing Business Climate

    GREEN, OH, October 27, 2015 /24-7PressRelease/ -- A recent IHS Automotive report provides further reasons for auto dealerships and repair shops to get serious about new ways of marketing.

According to the research and consulting firm, the average age of cars in the U.S. should be around 11.6 years in 2016 (up from 11.5 this year), but that average won't reach 11.7 until 2018 - indicating a significant slowing in what had become a steadily increasing age. This slowdown, in turn, will tighten business opportunities for the entire aftermarket segment - including dealership service centers and repair shops.

But Green-based AutoShop Express has specific recommendations suitable for any shop or service center, starting with a list of dealership supplies that should be part of every shop's marketing budget.

Sales aids, like swooper flag kits, pennant strings and under hood signs are great ways of attracting the attention of potential new customers, according to Paul Brown, president of the Ohio-based auto dealer supplies provider.

And once those new customers are in the door, Brown recommends a variety of cost-effective dealership supplies to create regular return business, such as customized:
- Oil change reminder stickers
- Versa-Tag key tags
- Floor mats

"Printing your shop's name and phone number on products like these is a great way to remind customers which shop is taking such good care of their vehicles," Brown said. "Customized oil stickers in particular make it incredibly easy for customers to contact a shop the next time they need service."

Other features, like a company logo or the ASE logo, when appropriate, help reinforce brand presence and differentiate a repair shop from others, he said.

Beyond marketing, Brown has further recommendations for weathering the peaks and valleys inherent to the auto service business. Auto dealer supplies like top-open repair order holders and easy-to-read service dispatch control tags help boost overall shop efficiency, helping to shore up a service center's bottom line, he said.

As the opportunities begin to slow for new business, retaining existing customers and providing them quick, effective service will become increasingly important, according to Brown. "Anything shops can do now to prepare for that will only help them better focus on servicing existing customers in the future."

AutoShop Express is a leading provider of a wide range of auto dealer products. Visit the company website -- or call 1-866-391-7315 -- to learn more.

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