Arens begins the conversation by discussing the ongoing semiconductor shortage that is affecting almost every major brand. Arens said that his car dealerships didn’t deny that production shortages were on their way. In fact, he encouraged his sales staff to take a week of their paid vacation during May, June, and July. If they did, they would receive a bonus paid day off to use later in the year.
The discussion switches gears to OEM incentives and Nissan doing away with their controversial stair-step program. The pair also tackle the “EV revolution” that is dominating the industry. While Arens is skeptical about some EV claims, he realizes that dealers will probably end up selling EVs eventually. In order to do that, car dealerships will have to adapt. From sales to service, it will be a challenging transition.
Adam Arens opened Patriot Subaru back in 2003. Today, he owns four stores in total and has plans to expand. For five consecutive years, Patriot Subaru has been named the Best Place to Work in Maine and has also been identified as having one of the highest percentages of female associates.
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