7:23 am, November 16, 2009
Winner: CliveSutton.co.uk
Produced by: Dzinegarage.com
Runner up: Hampshiresportsandprestigecars.co.uk
Third: John-Clark.co.uk
WHEN you’re selling cars to the stars you need a website that oozes quality – and CliveSutton.co.uk does just that.
It’s packed with rich media including video, smart photo galleries and magazine quality photographs that do the exclusive London dealer’s stock justice.
Every car listed on the site has a wealth of information about it with pictures from every angle imaginable – a perfect draw for the wealthy customers Sutton’s looking to attract.
The independent dealer has worked hard to ensure the site gives off a quality feel and Sutton says it’s key to his business. He works closely with an India-based firm called D’zine which has put his ideas for the site into practice.
‘The site is a result of me totally reconfiguring my business to draw customers in from around the country to buy and sell their vehicles with us,’ said Sutton.
‘I’d like to thank the judges for picking us and for Car Dealer for having a category that salutes the independents as it’s often hard to get the recognition. The site is of the utmost importance to the business and it’s really good to know that our hard work has been spotted.
‘It’s our most important shop window and we’ve even sold cars to people in Hong Kong on the back of the videos on the site so we know it works. I am delighted to have won.’
CLOSELY FOUGHT
The Independent Eward category was the closest fought of all – Clive Sutton’s site took first place by just ONE point.
But what was quite clear from the judges was how much they liked the use of media on the luxury car dealer’s website.
‘Clive Sutton’s site has easy navigation and clear screens,’ said HPI automotive director Daniel Burgess.
‘The site has all the functionality of some of the more down market sites, but manages to maintain a consistent and stylish brand presence.
‘Superb car imagery and presentation of the stock in slide shows are impressive. And he engages with Twitter too!’
Codeweavers commercial director Martin Hill was another of our top judges who was impressed with the use of photography.
‘The pictures really add to the luxury feel of the site,’ he said. ‘Also there are many different ways in which the customer can contact the dealer, at a time that suits them.
‘Good use of online payment technology makes the customer commitment tangible and allows them to reserve vehicles online with deposit or payment.’
And G-Forces marketing director Tim Smith praised the use of video and rich media adding: ‘The high end exotica that Clive Sutton is well known for is presented very well with the use of superb photography.’
Autotorq talk
Our headline sponsor says: ‘Strong on branding with powerful images on the homepage, an interesting video gallery tucked away inside, and again the use of online ‘chat’. This shows how independent dealers can build a clean, clear website to promote their brand and engage customers with good solid content – a worthy winner.’
