Demystifying AI
I encourage you to read the column on artificial intelligence on page 34 by Dee Murphy-Brown in this issue. As I was editing her column, I was struck by the line: “Over the next half-decade, early adopters will likely start …
News
O.E.M. stands for Outstanding Employee Management
A little care, attention and praise can go a long way in boosting morale and retention. Finally, you have hired what seems to be the right person and they showed up on day one. Now what? Ask yourself what does …
Taking care of your team
A solid employee benefits plan can be a competitive advantage in recruiting top talent. In the battle for talent, dealerships need all the tools at their disposal to attract, recruit and retain their key employees. That means providing a solid …
Keep your friends close
Customer loyalty can mean a steady supply of highly profitable sales now — and in the future. As our sector turns the corner from the pandemic and accompanying supply chain issues that have plagued the sector for many months, never …
Why leasing makes sense for dealers
Let’s take a closer look at the bottom line return from leasing vs. financing. According to industry figures, lease penetration nationwide has dropped from 35 per cent down to 20 per cent, the lowest level in the history of leasing. Leasing has also not …
The economy and EVs: a unique perspective
Economic uncertainty and supply disruptions are impacting consumer behaviours. Recently, there has been a lot of interest by journalists and news outlets on the topic of vehicle pricing in Canada and the underlying effects of the increased interest rates. Acting …
What are Bank Covenants and why are they necessary?
Dealers need to borrow cash to run their businesses, but not all loan types are the same. Dealers need access to a ton of capital, and I mean a ton! Think about it, no dealership is sitting on enough cash …
Two different worlds
Why don’t we train our fixed operations teams on customer service handling? I have been in the retail automotive industry since 1984. I have recently taken a step back from managing a dealership and after 39 years, I would share …
The 2023 Laureate Finalists
AMBASSADORSHIP For extraordinary service to the community and the industry PETER HEPPNER Preston Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac Ltd., Langley, B.C. Advice to others: This business remains one of great opportunities in my view. Where else can someone with little …
Canadian auto industry leaders honour retiring Don Durst
If the measure of a person is the respect gained from others, Don Durst has certainly made his mark in the Canadian automotive industry. Durst retired in July after 51 years in the auto industry, working the last 18 years …
Optimizing your tech’s time
Better tools and equipment, workshop technology, and communication and training can save time, boost profits, and put a smile on your technician’s face. Automating parts of a technician’s job to make life easier and free up time for other tasks …
Cross-Canada snapshot
BRITISH COLUMBIA Marv Jones Honda celebrates 50th anniversary Marv Jones Honda is celebrating 50 years of operation, though the founder has retired and passed the reins to his son while the original dealership has long since been replaced by a …
