Latest from Alex Kwanten

Appraisal programs crucial to win used cars in service lane

A proper dealership service drive appraisal program requires processes specific to service, a dedicated employee to manage them and buy-in from advisers.

The value in pandemic protocols, even as the crisis eases

The nation is slowly reopening as more people are getting vaccinated. Still, many service departments don't plan to stop sanitizing customers' vehicles.

How Canadian and U.S. dealers are protecting inventory from hail storms

British Columbia-based WeatherSolve, which specializes in weather barrier solutions, offers a netting product called Hail Canopy.

Denver group developed nets to protect against hailstorms

Of the 12 costliest hailstorms in Colorado history, nine have taken place since 2008. Caught directly in the crosshairs of No. 8 on the list was Denver-based Schomp Automotive Group.

Podiums, open desks help connect to service-drive customers

A growing number of dealers are using podiums and open-plan desks so advisers can show customers the full process of putting together their repair order on a screen.

Volvo provides free kits to relieve debt burden for new techs

Volvo hopes to recruit 225 new technicians by 2023, and the need is urgent. To help with recruiting, the automaker launched its Volvo Technician Tool Program in August.

Dealership sees recovery role in targeted social media marketing

Woody Buick-GMC in Naperville, Ill., is spending $2,500 a month on highly targeted social media and SEO efforts. It's money well spent.

Boost in digital marketing spend aids retailers as pandemic lingers

The sudden importance of service marketing in the early days of the pandemic led many dealers to closely examine new strategies.

10,000 no-touch service loaner contracts

Even before social distancing became a thing, consumers were trending toward transacting with the service lane on their mobile phones.

Expanded auto repair financing options gain traction

Finance products specifically devoted to repair lending have emerged in recent years. No one expected them to come in handy during a pandemic, but they have.

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