Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. wanted to make sure dealers attending its 2011 Dealer Conference had plenty of opportunity to learn about its new Tire & Service Network dealer program. So conference organizers set up six sessions over two days.
The conference is being held in Dallas, Texas, Jan. 28-29. The trade show, which features a mock Tire & Service Network store, opened on Jan. 27.
Last October, Goodyear announced it was replacing its Gemini program with the Tire & Service Network (see "Goodyear will drop Gemini name, format"). At the dealer conference, the company shed some insight into the new program.
Only Goodyear retailers who sign the Tire & Service Network Mark License Agreement and meet certain requirements will be eligible. Participants will be required to:
* submit Goodyear, Dunlop and Kelly point-of-sale sell-out data;
* actively promote the core product screen;
* keep a "G3 tire expert" on staff;
* participate in Goodyear National Promotional Programs;
* comply with the dealer agreement and Tire & Service Network standards and guidelines; and
* maintain a satisfactory rating on the annual Network audit.
The program, which, unlike the Gemini program, will be free to qualifying dealers, offers many benefits. According to Goodyear, they include:
* improved fill rates on the multi-branded core product screen;
* a 12-month/24,000-mile nationwide limited warranty;
* an introduction POS kit identifying the dealership as a Network member;
* Motorist Assurance Program (MAP) membership;
* a 2.5% reduction in national account admiinistrative fees;
* a Kendall oil program;
* mystery shopper, equipment, uniform and parts rebate programs.
Goodyear also will pay a 1% incentive on POS sell-out data.
Qualifying retailers interested in joining the program are asked to contact their Goodyear field associate to begin the enrollment process.
"Dealers will be notified within 30 days if they meet the eligibility requirments," adds the company.
