Strategy
A new European regulation which will introduce eco-labels to tyres in the second half of 2012 has raised confusion about how it will operate at dealerships in the UK.
Research among car buyers for this year’s Capgemini Cars Online study shows that satisfaction with the vehicle buying process continues to gradually improve. Seventy-two percent of respondents globally said they were satisfied or very satisfied with the buying process, an increase from 70% last year.
A couple of months ago we wrote in Auto Retail Bulletin about the opportunities for online parts and accessories sales through eBay Motors. All the evidence shows that more and more customers are buying online (and online mobile) and we believe parts is a significant, untapped sales channel for many franchised auto retailers.
Research by Auto Retail Network into current online trends in the industry reveals auto retailers are at the forefront of the mobile revolution that is gripping the internet. Whereas a few years ago auto retailing was perceived as lagging other businesses in its use of online tools, now many progressive dealerships are enthusiastic users of social media and mobile applications.
The latest RMI Franchised Dealer Attitude Survey indicates a further worsening in relations between franchised auto retailers and their manufacturer partners. According to the survey, the ‘value’ of holding a typical franchise has continued to fall and retailers remain concerned about tough manufacturer-imposed franchise standards, current profitability and even the prospect of future profits.
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