The world of automotive retail is going through a transformation. That message was loud and clear at this year’s NADA. From exhibitors to presenters, excitement rang out for all three days of the yearly show which focuses on bringing together products, services, and technologies for the auto industry. Digital retailing was a common theme. Many conversations involved topics such as adapting and adopting. These two points influence the realm of digital retailing and can make or break a dealership in 2021.
With change accelerating at a rapid rate, dealerships must first adapt to a different playing field. In many regards, the business of selling vehicles was significantly altered in comparison to previous years. Digital retailing isn’t new by any stretch of the imagination. But what is new is the frequency at which consumers are engaging with stores through diverse channels. More and more, the shopping experience starts on the couch. This doesn’t apply to everyone though. And that’s where adaptability really comes into play.
According to many at NADA, being adaptable means preparing for digital transformation while still catering to the traditional manner of selling vehicles. A hybrid model of offline and online experiences is the sought after method. Dealer after dealer spoke of their experiences and difficulties in this arena. Being adaptable is only the first step. Triumph over these challenges teeters heavily on a dealer’s ability to properly adopt new technologies as well.
You see, digital transformation comes from disruption. NADA 2021 proved that there are a lot of new and emerging technologies for dealers to pick from. What’s unfortunate is the number of antiquated choices out there. NADA is a forward-thinking event. As automotive retail adapts to changing climates, there needs to be a move towards adopting next-generation solutions. Our industry craves a push in that direction. It has been a long time coming and many voices echoed this desire at NADA.
Specifically for inventory management and sales enablement, being successful requires tools that go above and beyond to deliver results. Innovation and creativity will help open new doors for digital retailing. However, it’s up to individual dealerships to drive adoption. That’s where the rubber meets the road. If you want to see your dealership accelerate as a brand, you need to be backed with the right data. It’s all too easy to accept a current system without proactively examining how quality data can make a difference. In doing so, you can create a better, more streamlined experience for both your employees and your customers.
Coming out of NADA 2021, MAX Digital is invigorated by all the opportunities ahead for the rest of the year. A focus must be put on creating experiences that help dealerships adapt to unstable and unpredictable circumstances. And when they do adapt, they need next-generation solutions to adopt to maximize success. This is a roadmap to take you from where you are to where you want to be. MAX Digital is capable of helping you reach your goals and drive into NADA 2022 as a superstar of the auto industry. Set up a consultation with MAX Digital today, and discover all the ways we can help your business grow.
