8:27 am, July 26, 2012
FORD dealers have explored new ways to improve efficiency and customer communication through the use of cutting edge technology.
More than 100 Ford dealers took part in the Profitability and Technology Conference, which was held at the Henry Ford College in Loughborough.
Dealers were treated to presentations from Google, and leading automotive advisor, Grant Thornton, as well as exhibitions from Purchase Direct, GForces and Snap-on.
The conference also marked the start of collaboration between Ford and independent experts in energy efficiency, the Carbon Trust.
Miles Maiklem, Ford of Britain market representation and business manager, said: ‘Ford’s second dealer profitability and technology conference proved another great success for our dealer network. The theatre presentations and supplier interaction were inspiring and well received – illustrating the benefits of increasing efficiency and reducing costs through the use of technology and online resources.’
Belinda Poole, senior industry head, Google Automotive, said: ‘It is important that Ford’s dealers concentrate on providing an enjoyable and positive online experience as well as good customer service, both pre- and post-transaction.
‘The majority of customers carry out their car-buying research online and will decide on their desired make and model before ever stepping into a dealership. One of the most exciting changes Google has witnessed in recent years is the fact that over 20 per cent of internet car searches on Google now occur on a mobile or tablet-based device.’
Reducing the dealer carbon footprint
Ford is continuing to reduce the environmental impact of its vehicles and manufacturing sites, and is now working closely with the Carbon Trust to reduce the carbon footprint of Ford’s UK dealer network.
The collaboration will see the implementation of new energy efficient technology and eco-friendly processes into dealerships that will help to deliver optimum results.
Working with the SMMT, the Carbon Trust identified that many car dealerships can make cost savings of up to 10 per cent. The installation of new energy-efficient lighting, heating, ventilation and cooling can vastly reduce a dealer’s carbon footprint and the returns on investment can be surprisingly quick.
Mark Ovenden, Ford of Britain managing director, said: ‘In a challenging economy, the opportunity for improving energy efficiency and reducing costs is important to Ford, its dealers, and the UK motor industry as a whole. We are looking forward to working with the Carbon Trust to deliver Ford of Britain’s lowest ever carbon footprint.’
