There may have been a shortage of meaningful human contact during the last two years of pandemic restrictions, but there was no shortage of people who managed to discover the joys of shopping online. From Amazon to food delivery apps, businesses that catered to online shoppers enjoyed incremental growth in popularity as a result of the COVID-19 measures enacted in Ontario.
Just ask the team at Mike Jackson Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC in Collingwood, who stepped up their digital technology game to offer customers another layer of shopping convenience.
Anyone who owned a smart phone, a computer, a tablet, or other mobile device could have joined the many Mike Jackson Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC customers who purchased their vehicle online in the last two years. Integrating online services into their menu of available options hasn’t eliminated the preference of most car buyers to finalize transactions at the dealership; however, it has helped make shopping for a new car or truck easier and ultimately safer, because there was little in-person interaction required to complete the sales cycle.
“Online buying has clearly grown in popularity,” said Courtney Jackson, General Manager of the Mike Jackson GM. “Almost all customers conduct online research before purchasing. Visiting us at the dealership, however, we are finding that most prefer to confirm their decision and complete their purchase in person in store. These online resources have given our customers the tools to learn, plan and build deals so the final steps at the dealership are fast and efficient.”
Like many dealerships that are transitioning a portion of their sales efforts to online platforms, Mike Jackson Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC offered customers a variety of online services, including live chat, texting, document signing, credit applications, deposits, instant trade in values, and the opportunity to pre-order. Those individuals who wanted to connect in person could still book appointments; however, those who remained Covid cautious could complete all the steps involved in purchasing a vehicle from the convenience of their own home.
For the younger generation already accustomed to life online, the new way of buying a car means greater convenience and buying when it fits into their schedule.
With Covid restrictions easing across the province, floor traffic back into the dealership has no doubt increase incrementally as customers look for the best personal service they can find. However, Jackson says there are still challenges related to the pandemic including an automotive computer chip shortage that might require some gentle massaging when it comes to meeting customer expectations and demands for new vehicles.
“It’s important to be prepared for the challenges of the global pandemic and lingering supply chain issues,” said Jackson. “Inventory shortages and high demand are creating longer buying cycles. It’s important to discuss your specific needs with a Sales Representative in advance so they can ensure you get exactly what you require in good time by factory ordering your vehicle. We are recommending connecting with someone at least 6-9 months ahead of time to start the conversation.
On a positive note, car manufacturers and dealerships are still offering many incentives to drive purchases according to Jackson, especially when it comes to getting top value for your trade-in given shortages in pre-owned vehicle inventories.
“Manufacturer incentives vary month to month; however, you can secure most incentives when you factory order your vehicle with us. Upon arrival, the customer has the option of choosing between current incentives, and the incentives that were locked in, whichever works more so in their favour. The biggest incentive of all is how strong current trade values are. Your vehicle may never be worth more than it is today, so it’s always important to be in frequent communication with your sales representative.”
For new and pre-owned vehicles and automotive service, visit Mike Jackson Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC at 480 Hume St, Collingwood or online.