Dealer Debate: Tires Only Or Tires & Service?
In the world of independent tire dealers, there are two primary ways to conduct business: Sell tires and wheels only or sell tires and wheels plus full-blown automotive service. In recent years, there have been debates about which format fits today’s marketplace best. Here are two views offered by veteran tire dealers and the organizations
The Short List: A Few Expert Recommendations Can Help Dealers Get Ready For TPMS
Every business that has a service bay and changes tires has at least one mantra these days – preparing for the final TPMS compliance date – Sept. 1, 2007. That’s the date when the NHTSA edict goes into full effect, mandating tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) on all new cars. However, as most observers and
Plus Sizing Perils: TPMS Adds More Complexity to Aftermarket Tire/Wheel Installation
Over the next couple of months, I’ll be tackling the issue of how tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) affect the aftermarket and discussing strategies that can help tire dealers protect themselves and their customers. First off, what does NHTSA say about TPMS and aftermarket tire and wheel installation? Here is the excerpt from the latest
Public Service: Educating Consumers About TPMS is the Biggest Challenge
Com·mu·ni·ca·tion 1. The exchange of information between individuals, for example, by means of speaking, writing, or using a common system of signs or behavior Bart Cavin is general manager of Ken’s Service Center’s three stores in two suburbs southwest of Baltimore – Columbia and Hanover. Combined, they provide tires and service in 26 bays at
Charting a Course: ACCC Drives Home ‘Us’ Aspect of Being in the Marketing Group
ACCC Drives Home ‘Us’ Aspect of Being in the Marketing Group
Mitchell 1 Seeking Scholarship Applicants
(Akron/Tire Review) Mitchell 1 is now accepting applications for its Automotive Technology Outstanding Student Scholarship, awarded through the North American Council of Automotive Teachers (NACAT) Education Foundation at its annual conference in July.
Looming Mandate: Without Help, Dealers Face Dark Future. How Will You Cope?
To many in the tire industry, TPMS is a four-letter acronym that is quickly becoming a four-letter word. That goes for retail dealers and, soon, consumers alike. But these people are only considering the hassles involved with servicing tire/wheel assemblies featuring these gizmos. Look a little deeper, and you’ll see the potential for independent tire
Chaos Theory?: Managing Inventory in Today’s Tire Industry
Inventory management today is more important – and more complicated and challenging – than it has ever been in the history of the tire industry, according to Daniel Brown, senior vice president of procurement at American Tire Distributors. “Today’s consumer expects a multi-brand offering at the point of sale,” Brown wrote in a recent article