6:24 am, January 8, 2009
AUTOGLYM helped car dealers make an extra £16.5 million in profits during 2008, despite falling car sales.
LifeShine is a dealer-applied car paint protection kit. Increased sales helped boost dealer revenues.
Sales to existing AutoGlym customers were up 11 per cent. Now, the company has invested big in a dedicated national sales team, to supplement the existing franchisee sales force.
This will enhance profit opportunities for dealers, by increasing broader awareness of the product.
Terry Chapman, LifeShine sales manager, said: ‘Dealers are looking to boost profitability from every car sale. Along with finance packages, GAP insurance and factory-fit options, dealer-applied car care systems have significant and proven potential to generate additional profits.’
He saw current market conditions as an opportunity, aided by the recognition and strength of the AutoGlym brand. ‘Our conversion rate of 45 per cent is the best in the market.’
With car sales slowing, dealers have become more active in selling ancillary products to maximise income and profit margins.
In addition, buyers are anticipating they may have to own their new car for longer – so are looking at new ways of protecting it.
LifeShine is applied to the interior and exterior of the car, providing protection for a car’s bodywork, glass, fabric, leather and plastic surfaces.
It is applied by valeters or technicians at the dealership who have received bespoke training from Autoglym. Customers also get an Autoglym car care kit.
‘Uniquely, we back up our system with concerted aftersales support, including sole and direct responsibility for our unique ten-year no-quibble warranty,’ added Chapman.
‘We have an online registration facility so that we, along with the LifeShine customer and the dealer that sold the system, can review the status of the warranty quickly and easily over the web.’
