2023 will require dealer principals and their teams to fire on all cylinders to successfully weather the numerous challenges on the horizon. Economic uncertainty, evolving dealership sales models, fluctuating profitability targets, persistent staffing challenges, and continued growth in electric vehicles (EVs) are just a few of the issues which will impact retail automotive dealers.
There is plenty room for optimism for those dealers who put strategic plans in place, implement focused training protocols, bolster pricing models and fixed operations, and keep an eye on compliance. Let’s break down some of the opportunities for dealers to succeed in 2023.
EVs, sales models and customer connections
Growth in EVs and the hybrid instore and online sales model has highlighted the issue of strengthening and maintaining customer connections at the dealership. As more EV manufacturers sell direct to consumers, and consumers become increasingly comfortable buying a vehicle online, dealerships face challenges communicating with customers before, during and after the sale. Dealers who invest in implementing targeted sales processes and training will exit 2023 with more profitable businesses, greater employee retention, and stronger customer relationships.