Retail Therapy

How annoying is a small scratch, a scuff, a dent or ding, a kerbed alloy wheel?
It’s bad enough when you do it yourself (especially if it’s not your car). And it’s even worse if someone else does it.

For the motorist – options are limited – make an insurance claim which is time consuming and expensive. Often excess payments can range form a minimum £250 to as high as £1000. Ask for a retail quote from a car repair bodyshop which can cost hundreds or be forced to leave the damage unrepaired.

Now franchised dealers are offering a quick, easy and inexpensive solution. Minor damage repaired without the cost of removing panels or the hassles of having your car out of action for days.
No insurance claim nor effect on your no claims bonus or premium…

Sounds good as a motorist…and from the trade’s perspective genuine additional revenue.
Recent articles in the automotive press have underlined the growing opportunity for Smart Repairs. The increase in awareness comes in response to growing demand from franchised dealers across the UK motor industry determined to drive additional revenue into their After Sales departments. This coincides with a confirmed strategy to bring Smart Repairs in–house, reducing sub-contract labour costs and thereby ensuring Health and Safety compliance.

“From a marketing perspective Smart Repairs represent an essential mechanism for delivering enhanced customer satisfaction and retention while increasing productivity” said John Highfield, Managing Director of leading international Smart Repair manufacturer and distributor Ashford International. Used in used car sales or as part After Sales Care they can be marketed to existing, new and lapsed customers. Franchise Dealers can drive essential extra margin into their business with minimal investment.

Minor damage can be pointed out to the customer and sold up creating key additional profit while increasing customer retention. Recent research suggests 7 out of 10 customers agree to the additional work. From the customers perspective there is no need to claim on insurance or book the car in elsewhere. Maximum convenience with minimal cost means Customer Satisfaction levels on Smart Repairs are extremely high.

John Highfield added “often referred to as ‘The one day job’ Smart Repairs can dramatically improve profitability. By providing service customers with the highest quality workmanship the brand values of the marque and the business are enhanced.
Smart Repairs are coming of age …..”

“Now 'Repair not Replace' is becoming the accepted strategy, with Smart Repairs finally being viewed as the route to additional revenue and increased customer care and therefore retention,” Highfield concludes.