Continental tire rolls out its 2008 Gold Program for dealers

Feb. 7, 2008

Continental Tire North America Inc. has updated its dealer Gold Program for 2008.

"The Gold Program continues to be the cornerstone for Continental's focus on the needs of the independent tire dealer," says Travis Roffler, director of marketing. There are four unique levels in 2008: Gold Elite, Gold Select, Gold Standard and Gold Express.

"Dealers can now choose the Gold level that best meets the needs of their businesses," he adds.

Tire dealers who agree to purchase 300 units annually are eligible for "Gold Cash Rewards," which they receive on all Continental purchases. Quarterly cash rewards are earned on a per tire basis for total purchases and paid quarterly when program commitment is achieved. Quarterly cash rewards are deposited directly into the dealers bank account.

Gold Express dealers receive $2.50 for every Continental and $1.50 for every General brand purchase. Gold Standard dealers receive $3.50 for every Continental and $2.50 for every General brand purchase. Gold Select and Elite dealers receive $4.50 and $3.50 per tire, respectively.

Other benefits for each Gold Standard/Select/Elite dealer include the following:

* customized start-up kit.

* UHP Express Ship Program.

* training and certification.

* customized showroom components.

* one-foot by three-foot lighted Continental signs.

* one-foot by three-foot lighted General signs.

* dealer locator listing with Gold Icon.

* access to ContiLink.com, Continental's online dealer support portal.

* exclusive Gold Dealer tire displays.

* customized menu boards.

Gold Elite dealers who agree to purchase 1,800 or more units by Dec. 31, 2008, also become eligible for Continental's 2009 Gold Incentive Trip, an all-inclusive, four day/three night trip for two.

All Gold Elite, Select and Standard program participants also receive marketing support, including point-of-sale showroom material and indoor signage. In addition, they will be listed on Continental's online dealer locators for both www.continentaltire.com and www.generaltire.com.

All Gold dealers also gain access to the Web Toolbox, an online source for Continental marketing materials. Using the Web Toolbox, dealers can order POS materials, brochures and other materials; download logos and tire photography; create ads using AdBuilder; and more.

For more information on the Gold Program, visit www.contilink.com/gold.