AutoShop Express Publishes Winter Survival Tips for Auto Dealers & Repair Shops

    UNIONTOWN, OH, November 25, 2014 /24-7PressRelease/ -- As the calendar inches toward the end of the year, an Ohio-based auto dealer products distributor is offering tips to help prepare service centers and auto dealers for the months ahead.

"Winter isn't just tough on car owners," said Paul Brown, president of Green-based AutoShop Express. "Every service center manager should run through a simple checklist to make sure they're ready for everything that winter can bring.

A basic tip is simply to take stock and make sure now that the shop has an adequate inventory of its most frequently used auto dealer supplies.

While Versa key tags and durable repair order holders are important for the efficient running of a repair shop year-round, Brown noted other supplies become even more important once temperatures dip and the sleet and snow begin to fly.

"Protective auto dealer products, like covers for steering wheels, fenders and seats, as well as floor mats, are great to have on hand at this time of year," he said.

Since floor mats are available in several styles, Brown advised that shop owners select the floor mat that best suits the needs of customers:

- Adhesive-backed mats are appropriate for restoration jobs, when you'll need to be in and out of a vehicle over several weeks' time. A good adhesive mat will last around 30 days without tearing or ripping.
- Plastic-coated paper mats can be a good choice for smaller service centers that have some storage room. These mats can be re-used in several vehicles before being discarded.
- Plastic-film floor mats are available on rolls for quick distribution and are intended for one use and then easy disposal.

Such single-use mats, which can also be left in the customer's vehicle, offer a nice promotional bonus for shop owners, Brown said. "Service centers can take the extra step of having their shop name, logo and contact info printed on the mat as a reminder to the car owner of who not only repaired the vehicle but also cared enough to keep it clean.

Oil change reminder stickers are another great product to customize for customer retention, he said.

The final tip on AutoShop Express's checklist is a bit more philosophical but has important consequences for any repair shop's long-term viability.

"Lastly, shop owners should take a moment to review their most recent experiences with vendors," Brown said. He recommended considering such questions as:

- Has the level of customer service been satisfactory?
- Are orders delivered in a timely fashion and as promised?
- Even if per-product pricing remains competitive, are the freight charges unchanged?

"Freight is an easy area to hide price increases," Brown said. "If shop managers have concerns, they shouldn't be afraid to at least investigate other suppliers. They may find someone better, or they may find out just how lucky they are."

AutoShop Express is a leading provider of a wide range of auto shop supplies. Visit the company website -- or call 1-866-391-7315 -- to learn more.

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