Features
By: Bob Ulrich
Saul Ludwig has a sixth sense of sorts, which comes in handy when you are the pre-eminent analyst in the tire industry. He can see not only what is happening inside and outside the marketplace, but also how that affects the future.
FEATURES
Do you offer online scheduling for service appointments? Why not? It’s easy, inexpensive, and it gives your customers a convenient way to do business with you. Have you ever heard of the Golden Rule? I am not referring to the one that says, “He who has the gold ... rules.” I mean, “Treat others as you would want to be treated.”
The most rewarding part of my 35-year experience in the automotive aftermarket has been people. I love cars. I love wheels, tires, service and customers. I love the interaction of connecting the dots to satisfy the needs within our industry.
You have had a hard day. Two employees did not show up for work. Customers demand the impossible and then argue about the price. Fill rates from your tire suppliers are poor and you have to call several sources to just get tires. Last year was the worst year in business and you lost $87,809. You are frustrated and tired of the hassle. Why not just sell the business and enjoy retirement?
Bob Ulrich's Editorial
Every year, industry experts try to predict what will become the hottest items on the market, or what the latest advancements will be. I think the proper word is “futurecasting.”
Ludwig Report
For sure, the retail consumer tire business was rather lackluster in 2011 as the combination of high gasoline prices (that led to a decline in miles driven), high unemployment and low consumer confidence led to tire buying deferral.
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