Many car and truck owners choose to visit a third-party dealer for maintenance of their cars. Whether it's because people are owning their vehicles longer or pricing, making sure customers continue to visit your automotive maintenance and repair shop over the local dealership comes down to putting your best forward with amenities your customers are looking for.
According to data, people drove approximately 2,000 fewer miles last year due to staying home during the pandemic. But less driving didn’t mean that people needed less car maintenance. Many found that cars that sit for long periods of time had less tire pressure, low batteries, and other issues that needed attention. So as people are needing their cars still serviced, they want to be able to wait in an environment that is clean, makes them feel safe, and allows them to keep connected.
Providing USB and electricity outlets for phones and computers, having desk-like areas with partitions, providing plenty of seating, and offering a beverage bar can help customers feel comfortable. It will also make them more likely to bring in their car for service more often if they can work on their laptops while waiting.
Excessive wear and tear is something that happens a lot in the automotive service department. With tires being thrown around, dirty parts being replaced, and lots of engine exhaust, it’s an inevitable part of the business. Making sure that customer-facing areas are kept clean is important to make it a welcoming environment.
Working with materials that are resistant to grease and oil assists with cleanups. Using countertops that are replaceable can help with costs so entire counter areas don’t need to be updated every few years. These simple steps when building or renovating your auto repair shop not only help with customer satisfaction but also with helping to keep down costs in the future.
Providing a customer-first experience in the automotive industry is important to gain and retain customers. That means providing them a clean, welcoming setting where they feel comfortable waiting and don’t mind returning to. From offices to service kiosks to the coffee bars in between, Randal Retail Group can help your automotive business shift into a higher gear.