As we close out the year, it’s more important than ever for dealers to understand how to drive profits and consumer satisfaction. Therefore, on the latest episode of Inside Automotive, we’re checking back in with someone who knows a thing or two about going above and beyond. The 2023 TIME Dealer of the Year, President of Gary Rome Hyundai, and Gary Rome Kia, Gary Rome, joins us.
Over the years, Gary Rome Hyundai and Kia have indulged in several community charity events. For example, Gary Rome Hyundai has been a long-time supporter of Rays of Hope, and they extended that support by serving as the presenting sponsor of the 2023 walk and run toward the cure just this October.
Key Takeaways:
1. Currently, the dealership is assisting the Ronald McDonald House: Trees of Hope initiative, which organizes dealerships to fill their showrooms with ornamental Christmas trees that community members have donated. The trees were put up for auction by Rome using a live auctioneer. The dealers helped the Ronald McDonald House raise almost $40,000 in a single evening.
2. Inventory levels have been unreliable at best since the onset of the pandemic. Though some models remain difficult to purchase, Rome’s inventory is back, and OEMs are on board with pushing out EV incentives.
3. For instance, Hyundai has started its zero percent down for 60 months initiative. Furthermore, the dealership continues to focus on electric vehicles, particularly because all of its advertisements are promoting them.
4. Hyundai is also providing a portion of the lease that entitles customers to an upfront tax credit of $7,500, a $3,500 state rebate, a free level two charger, and a $600 installation credit with each purchased or financed vehicle. Rome continues, “EVs account for only seven or 8% of our business.” So, there is still a long way to go.
5. Rome, therefore, developed its Evolve Plus program, which gives customers the chance to rent an EV as a try-before-you-buy alternative in order to fill in the educational gaps left by other dealers and determine whether or not customers can maintain the obligations of driving an EV.
6. Looking ahead, the dealership aspires to improve sales by at least 15%. Nonetheless, Rome believes that amount is achievable with the addition of the Gary Rome Car Wash and Dog Wash.
"It's a privilege to be able to contribute to our community, and it is crucial that we select charitable endeavors that hold significance for our staff members." — Gary Rome
