Zanchin Automotive Group is looking for its customized app to be used by customers as much as those individuals might hit their smartphone button to access Amazon or Instagram.
Mobile Einstein, a provider of geo-mobile sales solutions for dealer groups, recently announced that it has partnered with Zanchin Automotive Group, one of the largest dealer groups in Toronto with more than 32 locations and 18 brands.
Officials highlighted the partnership is geared to enable the group to deliver an enhanced omni-channel experience via the Zanchin Automotive Group mobile app.
Mobile Einstein insisted that customers are becoming increasingly mobile and expect to interact with their dealerships of choice through new digital channels. This partnership is designed to provide Zanchin Automotive Group with a branded mobile app for its family of dealerships.
Customers and potential buyers can download the free dealer app to their smartphone, providing a personalized customer and shopper experience with personalized notifications, targeted geo-fencing, easy service scheduling, roadside assistance, live chat, inventory browsing, test drive scheduling, mobile offers, customer referral programs and digital loyalty rewards, to name a few.
“We pride ourselves on delivering an enhanced customer experience, and for years Zanchin has built confidence with our customers who purchase and service both new and pre-owned vehicles from us. The way customers interact with the dealership is changing, and we have to change with it and offer options,” said Andria Zanchin, principal and executive vice president at Zanchin Automotive Group.
“In today’s digital world where every shopper and customer has a smartphone, delivering engaging experiences through a personalized dealer mobile app is key to growing long term customer relationships,” Zanchin continued. “We are excited to partner with Mobile Einstein and take our customer acquisition and service retention to the next level.”
As dealers like the Zanchin Automotive Group look to focus on fixed operations as a principal source of profitability, Mobile Customer VIP by Mobile Einstein can help dealerships optimize service revenue and retention by connecting with customers via their smartphone with timely automated alerts and offers during opportune moments in their vehicle lifecycle, such as an oil change, tire rotation, brake service, maintenance checkup and more.
The growth in GPS technology is giving rise to a trend in localization for the automotive industry. Geo-Mobile Sales by Mobile Einstein can allows dealerships to set a virtual perimeter around their location as well as competitor lots. When customers and potential buyers pass through the perimeter, they trigger a timely and personalized notification to their smartphone, with an effective call-to-action to visit the dealership’s sales and service center.
Creative call-to-actions can foster visits and participation such as a digital scratch and win, a loyalty reward, a virtual tour, a digital coupon, or a pop-up sales event.
With Geo-Mobile Sales, the Mobile Einstein solution can alert the dealer’s sales and service staff when customers and prospects are visiting a competitors’ lot, and prompts them to initiate a timely and personalized follow up based on detailed analytics on the name of the buyer, the dealership they’re visiting and time of day.
With this critical insight, dealerships can boost local awareness among prospects looking to purchase a vehicle and retain customers looking to schedule a service appointment.
And now the Zanchin Automotive Group has these tools from Mobile Einstein.
“While dealerships will continue to play a significant role as primary channels for building personal contact and relationships with customers, they will need to adapt their sales and fixed operations’ infrastructure to a new generation of consumer preferences that necessitate a mix of physical and digital presence,” said Tony della Busa, president and chief executive officer of Mobile Einstein.
“Forward-thinking leaders like Zanchin Auto Group are enhancing their mobile strategy by engaging shoppers at every stage of their buying journey. This targeted form of mobile communications is helping their family of dealerships to gain the ultimate competitive advantage by engaging customers at every key moment in their vehicle ownership lifecycle,” della Busa went on to say.
More details about the company products are available via this video or by going to mobileinstein.com.
OGI Digital wants Canadian dealers who might already be familiar with Online Guided Intelligence (OGI) stemming from its recent introduction to acquaint themselves with a new tool intended to collect insights into who visits their dealerships — and their competitors — each day.
The new solution — Pulse — can empower dealers nationwide to learn who is physically visiting lots. OGI Digital explained the software built and the subsequent data collected is all compliant with Canadian privacy laws.
For example, the company insisted only contact names and addresses are provided in the output to adhere to legal requirements.
Coupling this location-based data with DMS data readily in the hands of dealers can provide a multitude of ultra-targeted marketing opportunities.
“We have identified and are now providing a program to shine light on an automotive retailing blind spot in the customer journey,” said Kelly Nolan, of OGI Digital. “Essentially we are bringing the offline on-lot behaviors of consumers online to the disposal and analysis of the dealer.”
The software can monitor all dealer locations in the country and provide an analytical view of the shopping behaviors of potential and active vehicle buyers. The reporting functions can allow marketing managers to understand better how consumers are interacting with their lot and marketing.
However, OGI Digital pointed out that perhaps even more powerful is the marketing play to “conquer those consumers on other lots and bring them in,” as Kelly puts it. If consumers have left the lot and moved onto another around the corner, you will know and can target those defectors with marketing communications.
Pulse is software developed and deployed currently in the United States by Digital Data Solutions. The system has been active in the U.S. now for more than a year, representing most major OEMs in its client dealer network and is live in all 50 states.
OGI Digital is the exclusive provider of Pulse technology in the Canadian auto retailer market.
In Canada, Pulse will report on more than 20,000 customer records per day.
“We provide a way for individual dealers to essentially monitor the entire vehicle shopping public in the country if they like,” Digital Data Solutions chief executive officer and founder Graham Line said. “Or, they can hone in to focus attention on a specific province, region, market or dealer down the street, to get intelligence on habits and target messaging.”
The software developer leverages access to location data from more than 90,000 common applications running on smartphones. Digital Data Solutions acknowledged the quantity of data the applications manage is immense, which required and passed rigorous load testing before launch.
All Canadian data is hosted and managed at tier one facilities in Canada, according to the companies.
Line emphasized all aspects of the tool have been heavily vetted by privacy council to ensure compliance.
“We understand the power of this data and the privacy ramifications that surround it,” Line said. “We retain very strict controls on how we can allow this data to be used by keeping in mind that it is in no one’s best interest to violate the trust of consumers.”
An unattended or unsecured workstation or mobile device showing a customer’s personal information could be the gateway that creates potentially significant data breach problems at your dealership or finance company.
Shred-it recently released its annual State of the Industry Report that exposes information and data security risks currently threatening Canadian enterprises and small businesses and includes survey findings from the Shred-it Security Tracker.
The study found that Canadian businesses, while embracing the concept of workplace mobility, are failing to implement proper data protection policies and staff training, putting them at a heightened risk of a data breach.
The survey findings, conducted by Ipsos, revealed the following:
— Almost 90 percent of C-suite executives and half of small business owners reported that their organizations offer flexible or off-site work environments to employees and more than two-thirds believe that the trend towards working remotely will increase over the next five years.
— However, the majority (82 percent) of C-suite executives and almost two-thirds (63 percent) of small business owners feel that the risk of a data breach is higher when employees work off-site.
“In an era of increasing workplace mobility and one in which a single data breach can destroy a business’ bottom line and reputation, companies have no choice but to make information security a priority,” Shred-it Vice president Paul Saabas said. “One of the smartest things a company can do to differentiate itself today is to make data security a core part of its business practices and communicate this to consumers.”
The study also revealed that businesses are not addressing information security risks with the required training, policies and enforcement mechanisms:
— 38 percent of small business owners reported not having any protocols in place when employees use electronic devices containing confidential information.
— 46 percent of small business owners stated they have no policy for storing and disposing of confidential information when employees work off-site.
— Just 27 percent of small business owners offer employee training on using public Wi-Fi, compared to 48 percent of C-suite execs.
Furthermore, only half of C-suite execs reported that they train their employees on the following practices: keeping sensitive information out-of-sight when working in a public space (58 percent), sharing company-issued electronic devices with family and friends (53 percent), and keeping company-issued devices safe from interference at home (53 percent).
“This oversight in employee training for both large enterprises and small businesses can have a huge impact on a company’s bottom line and reputation if a data breach does occur,” Shred-it said.
Millennials and data security: Not as savvy as we thought
The study also examined millennials (ages 18 to 34) and the topic of data security. The results were surprising — and concerning.
Shred-it reported that millennials, despite having grown up in the digital and mobile era, are lagging behind their Generation X (35 to 55) and baby boomer (55-plus) colleagues when it comes to safe data protection practices.
The study showed:
— 48 percent of millennials leave their notebooks on their desk after they leave work for the day, compared to 37 percent of Generation X, and 21 percent of baby boomers.
— 37 percent of millennials report regularly leaving their computer on and unlocked after work, compared to 22 percent of those between the ages of 35-54, and 12 percent of those 55 and older.
— Only half of millennials regularly shred confidential documents, compared to 65 percent of Generation X, and 52 percent of baby boomers.
“It really is quite surprising that millennials are not taking the issue of data security as seriously as they should,” Saabas said. “What the results show us is just because a younger person is comfortable using technology doesn’t necessarily mean they are knowledgeable about privacy and data risk issues. Without the right training and behavior, they could be putting their employer at risk, not to mention their own personal brand.”
Ipsos conducted a quantitative online survey of two distinct sample groups: small business owners in Canada and C-suite executives working for businesses in Canada with a minimum of 100 employees. The fieldwork was conducted between April 3 and April 21.
To learn more about the 2018 Security Tracker and to receive additional findings, download the 2018 Shred-it State of the Industry Report.
Dealertrack recently announced that it has introduced several upgrades for its new mobile application in an effort to improve and evolve dealer productivity.
In addition to providing dealers access to credit application and contract activity quickly, via the Dealertrack mobile application, users can also securely track deals within their finance workflow while on the go, the company said.
“Our new Dealertrack mobile app was built on a state-of-the-art foundation to enable us to deploy additional features today, and add more in the future,” Dealertrack Canada director of product management Jeff Gallon said in a news release. “Dealers, lenders, OEMs, third-party retailers, and agents can immediately benefit from the latest mobile features — meaning they'll be positioned for the future of mobile digital retailing.”
A few key features the app offers users is the ability to set notifications for credit application changes and leads, quickly view credit bureau scores pulled from a desktop application and check credit application statuses, according to Dealertrack.
Dealertrack mobile is now available for Android devices and Apple users.
TRADER Corp. announced Tuesday a new partnership with Dealer Drive to bring the Australian-based technology company’s app-based digital test drive tracking and analytics solution to dealers across Canada.
The solution has been added to TRADER’s existing roster of efficiency and conversion solutions and is now being rolled out to its customer base, according to the company.
The technology can provide real-time data, help increase productivity and find both proven time and cost savings.
“Whether in-house or externally, we are constantly focused on finding the right technology solutions to solve the needs of our customers to help them to improve their businesses,” TRADER vice president of product commercialization Jill Hadfield said in a news release.
“Dealer Drive offers proven data-driven solutions that help overcome some of the challenges that dealerships face today, helping them to operate more efficiently and capitalize on more sales opportunities. Thanks to a product that revolutionizes the test drive experience, we’re sure Dealer Drive will help Canadian retailers obtain similar results to those seen in other markets,” she explained.
With the Dealer Drive app, sales staff can capture customer information while on the go into a tablet or smartphone.
“We deeply analyzed this market and recognized that TRADER has a proven track record in bringing innovative products to its customers”, Dealer Drive co-founder, Michael Webb said. “TRADER is able to execute our collective vision of solving retailers' challenges by providing excellent service and a high level of support for this program.”
In addition to being able to track the quality and effectiveness of the customer test drive experience, users can quickly respond to customer feedback.
TradeRev has announced it will now have a physical presence in 14 ADESA auction locations after partnering with ADESA Canada to encourage dealers to use TradeRev’s mobile app before sending cars to a brick-and-mortar auction.
Hands-on assistance from ADESA sales teams will be available at the auctions to help dealers load their inventory onto the mobile app auction platform, according to TradeRev.
“Mobile technology is disrupting the wholesale auction marketplace by empowering dealers and putting them in full control,” TradeRev chief executive officer and co-founder Mark Endras said in a news release. “ADESA is North America’s premier auction marketplace with thousands of strong, trusted dealer relationships. Partnering with them to accelerate the ‘Digital First’ revolution is exhilarating for both companies and incredibly exciting for our shared customers.”
TradeRev and ADESA also announced a series of exclusive partnerships including more than 100 dealerships throughout Canada earlier this year.
As a result of the recent partnerships, tens of thousands of vehicles have been added to TradeRev’s network of buyer and seller dealers, the company said.
“ADESA is committed to helping our customers buy and sell inventory as quickly and efficiently as possible – regardless of the channel,” said Trevor Henderson, chief operating officer of ADESA Canada. “No one can do this better than ADESA, TradeRev and the KAR family of companies. We’ve been the online services leader in Canada for many years and we are proud to extend the digitization of our industry to help dealers launch and win auctions from the palm of their hands.”
TradeRev is available nationwide in Canada and in 10 markets across the U.S. ADESA currently holds a 50 percent stake in TradeRev.
According to TradeRev, more than 500,000 dealer auctions have been launched through its mobile app, which has produced over 6 million dealer bids.
Cox Automotive Canada has introduced a redesigned website to the Canadian automotive remarketing industry.
"Knowing our clients spend more time online than ever before, our website has been redesigned from a ‘mobile-friendly’ perspective; delivering a seamless experience—whether you are on your desktop computer or mobile device," Cox Automotive Canada said in an announcement Wednesday.
The coxautoinc.ca website serves as an information portal that showcases Cox Automotive Canada’s operations, according to the company.
"The automotive remarketing industry is evolving towards an integrated online experience, and along with our enhancements, our new website will also provide key information that can benefit our clients’ business," Cox Automotive Canada director of marketing and corporate communications Jack Sulymka said in a news release.
Cox Automotive Canada said the new site’s advancements in functionality makes it easy for visitors to explore the people, brands and solutions of its organization.
"We’re excited about our new website experience, and how it will better serve the media, existing and prospective clients, and build our brands in Canada," Sulymka added.
Impact Auto Auctions, a subsidiary of Insurance Auto Auctions and a business unit of KAR Auction Services, recently launched Impact AuctionNow, a mobile app that allows buyers from across Canada and beyond to place bids both live and online.
Impact AuctionNow is compatible with iPhone, Android and tablet devices, and according to the company, it is currently granting free guest access to anyone interested in testing out the new app.
"Impact Auto Auctions is committed to continuously improving and simplifying the bidding experience," managing director of Impact Auto Auctions Terry Daniels said in a news release. "The AuctionNow mobile app allows bidders the ability to search and source specific vehicles with both speed and precision.
"This ultimately provides app users greater access, allowing them to bid from anywhere with confidence and convenience. Customer interest and response has been positive — the number of downloads has by far exceeded our expectations within the first 90 days of launch."
With Impact AuctionNow, buyers can both participate in auctions in real-time, which are simulcast live with audio and video, and monitor ongoing bidding and inventory updates straight from the app.
Additionally, users also have the ability to search for comprehensive vehicle information and view vehicle damage estimate reports on the new platform.
Impact AuctionNow can be downloaded from the Apple App Store and on Google Play.
To begin using the app, participants must first register as a guest at www.impactauto.ca/Account/Register.
Canadian tech startup TradeRev introduced two new plans for dealers this month, including a subscription-based service crafted just for high-volume users and works to streamline the resale process.
The mobile car auction app provider said it wanted to two different plan options for its dealer clients because its user base has expanded to 3,000 plus dealers throughout Canada and the U.S. in recent years.
“We’re pleased to introduce new customized plan options to better serve the diverse needs of TradeRev’s mobile app users,” Mark Endras, TradeRev president and co-founder, said in a news release.
TradeRev said the two plans are “designed to serve the needs of both high- and low-volume dealers — while simplifying the accounting process.”
For high-volume dealers, TradeRev now offers the Pro Plan, a new subscription-based service that guarantees payment in 48 hours.
It’s a research tool that provides users with details such as the make, model, and trim of a vehicle as well as sold price, location and high-value option codes.
Payday, a new incentive launched TradeRev that allows dealers to earn money back when they reach specific sales milestones comes with the plan.
Along with an enhanced billing process that is easier to use, according to TradeRev, dealers also have access to advanced research tools such as the ADESA Market Guide, which aims to reduce launch fees.
TradeRev said it has updated and customized its Standard Plan for smaller dealers who want to “test drive before signing up for a subscription.
Premium features in the Pro Plan aren’t available with the plan but users can buy, sell and appraise vehicles for free.
“Thousands of Canadian dealers rely on our real-time car auction technology, and their feedback and input led the design of our new Pro and Standard plans. Both plans simplify the billing process, making it faster and easier for dealers to get true market value for their trade-ins,” Endras said.
R. Hollenshead Auto Sales announced it has launched vehicle valuation tool Accu-Trade in Canada, giving dealers a mobile platform to capture leads, increase customer trade-ins and generate appraisals.
“Now, dealers have access to the same tool I use to buy and sell up to 1,000 cars a week. I am so confident in the pricing, I instruct our buyers to buy anything based on Accu-Trade Appraiser Pro values,” said Bob Hollenshead, Accu-Trade co-founder.
“The Accu-Trade lead generation tool installs directly on dealership websites, so customers can value their trade-ins, generating leads that convert at a higher level than any other lead source," Hollenshead continued.
Accu-Trade can generate customer leads directly from the dealer’s website with an Instant Offer tool that values their trade in seconds. Leads can be routed to the dealer CRM and to Accu-Trade’s Appraiser Pro, giving dealers the opportunity to complete a transparent and interactive trade-in appraisal with the customer.
Accu-Trade Instant Offer and Appraiser Pro can work together to give dealers a complete platform to manage vehicle leads and appraisals. Instant Offer can give consumers a simple way to appraise their trade-in, right from a dealership website. Dealers can customize Accu-Trade Instant Offer to adjust offer prices based on market conditions, or change messaging to consumers based on special offers or other promotions.
“We know trade-in valuation is one of the most tedious parts of the vehicle sales process — for dealers and customers alike — especially when pricing vehicles that are uncommon, very expensive, exportable, or have bad vehicle history reports. Accu-Trade takes the guesswork out of pricing and allows dealers to appraise any vehicle — accurately. Accu-Trade tells you everything you need to know about the vehicle and guides you to a market-driven number that is right on the money,” Hollenshead said.
At the core of the valuation platform is Accu-Trade’s independent and precise pricing.
“Every vehicle is unique, so dealers need more than standard pricing to get an accurate vehicle value,” said Rob Bulyovsky, Accu-Trade’s president and co-founder. “Accu-Trade tracks values for thousands of makes and models, and gives dealers precise valuations reflecting real-time market conditions. Accu-Trade makes it easier for shoppers to trade their vehicles and for dealers to engage these highly-coveted customers.”
As part of the Canada launch, Accu-Trade is partnering with Selectbidder.
“We’re excited about the Accu-Trade product and partnership. We have a great team in place and are ready to offer Canadian dealers a suite of products that consumers and dealers want,” said Sean Liptay, founder and chief executive officer of Selectbidder.
