11 JUN 2024 · Join us for an insightful episode where we examine the evolving landscape of the automotive industry and the strategic moves dealers are making to adapt. With the rise of electric vehicles, the entrance of new brands, especially from China, and the emergence of innovative vehicle distribution methods, the environment is becoming increasingly challenging for traditional automotive brands. Dealers, realizing the need to stay competitive, are now exploring vertical integration and embracing the agency model with the new brands as a strategic advantage. This shift in approach will undoubtedly put pressure on importers who have traditionally handled distribution for smaller and even established brands. Join us as we explore the intricate dynamics of this changing industry and uncover the strategies dealers are employing to thrive in this dynamic era.

5 JUN 2024 · Join us for this episode as we delve into the strategies for navigating the challenges faced by small brands in demanding market conditions. Small-scale brands, typically selling fewer than 10,000 units or capturing less than 1% of market share, encounter significant hurdles in achieving economies of scale. These brands often grapple with the decision of whether to remain in a particular market, particularly when it involves specific homologation requirements or engineering adjustments, such as accommodating right-hand drive markets. We'll thoroughly examine the essential steps a brand must take from the perspectives of stock management and cost optimization. Don't miss this insightful exploration of the practical measures necessary for small brands to thrive in challenging market environments.

30 MAY 2024 · Join us in this episode as we take a deep dive into the ever-evolving world of the automotive industry. We'll make bold predictions about the impact of electric vehicles, agency models, and the emergence of new electric vehicle brands. Moreover, we'll explore how these changes are likely to have far-reaching implications on existing brands in the industry. With a focus on emerging trends and innovations, we'll discuss how automotive brands are set to transform the way they sell and distribute vehicles across different markets. Not only that, you'll also gain insights into how dealer groups may take on a more prominent role in the supply chain by vertically integrating some of these new brands - reshaping the industry as we know it. We'll be discussing both potential winners and losers in the market, and how we expect to see consolidation among brands, leading to a vastly altered landscape by 2030. Tune in as we provide strategies and solutions to navigate these dynamic and transformative trends and challenges. With exclusive insights, we assure you this episode will be engaging, insightful, and valuable for anyone interested in the future of the automotive industry. To stay up to date in this ever-changing sector, don't miss this episode!

23 APR 2024 · In this interview, we sit down with Antti Jokela, the Aftersales Director for Nissan Nordic Europe, to delve into Nissan's pioneering journey of converting internal combustion engines to electric vehicles (EVs). With a primary focus on countries like Norway, Sweden, and Finland, where Nissan now predominantly sells electric vehicles, we explore the learnings and outcomes from this transition and discuss the impact on Nissan's business and dealer network. Antti Jokela sheds light on Nissan's vision and strategy for electric mobility in the Nordic region. He discusses the driving factors behind Nissan's decision to convert internal combustion engines to electric vehicles and the long-term goals the company aimed to achieve through this transition. Antti shares valuable insights into the significant learnings that Nissan Nordic Europe gained during the process of converting to electric vehicles. He discusses the challenges encountered at various stages, such as infrastructure development, customer perception, and range anxiety, and how Nissan addressed them to make electric vehicles a viable and attractive option for customers in the region. Antti explains the outcomes and impacts Nissan Nordic Europe experienced as a result of the transition to electric vehicles. He delves into the changes in customer demand, dealer network adaptation, and how Nissan's business model has evolved to align with the requirements of an electric-only fleet. Additionally, he discusses the measures taken to support dealers in providing efficient aftersales service and maintenance for electric vehicles. Antti highlights the advantages and benefits that Nissan Nordic Europe has gained through its leadership in electric vehicles. He discusses the positive impact on brand reputation, customer loyalty, and market share, as well as the environmental benefits achieved through reduced carbon emissions. Through this interview with Antti, we gain a deeper understanding of Nissan's remarkable journey in transitioning to electric vehicles in the Nordic region. We explore the learnings, challenges, outcomes, and impacts on both the business and dealers, as well as Nissan's ongoing commitment to shaping the future of sustainable mobility in the Nordic market. This information on this site is intended as a general reference for Internet users. It is made available on the understanding that Talking Automotive with Mark & John, as a result of providing this information, is not engaged in providing professional advice. Viewers & Listeners should seek their own advice re undertaking any commercial actions. All information in this site is provided "as is", with no guarantee of accuracy, timeline

14 APR 2024 · Getting everyone on the same page is crucial for automotive brands. OEMs have a broad vision for the brand while dealers aim to maximize sales and service at the local level. Misalignment between these goals can create friction and lost opportunities. This is where field teams play a vital role as the liaison between OEMs and dealers. But juggling the priorities of both sides is easier said than done. Repetitive admin tasks like scheduling and reporting drain time that could be better spent strategizing and collaborating. That’s why forward-thinking brands turn to solutions like UON Global’s field team management software. As Kim Walker explains, automation takes care of time-consuming tasks so reps can focus on high-impact work. With mobile access, reps easily update accounts on-the-go. Automated reminders ensure critical action items aren’t overlooked. And centralized data offers transparency so dealers can track rep activities and progress. These capabilities boost accountability while simplifying oversight for managers. The result? Field teams operate at peak efficiency with improved collaboration between OEMs and dealers. Reps spend less time on busywork and more time addressing strategic priorities. Dealers get the support they need with full visibility into rep activities. It’s a win-win that sets field teams up for success. Looking to align your OEM and dealers while optimizing field team performance? UON Global’s software streamlines operations for maximum impact. Be sure to subscribe to learn more about driving results for your automotive brand. With the right technology, your field team can take performance to the next level.

7 APR 2024 · Traditionally in automotive you have a dealer on one side and the OEM or manufacturer on the other often with very different objectives. The Field staff sit in the middle and are a link between the two. We speak to Kim Walker from UON Global on the challenges this poses and why it is so important to provide the field team with the right tools so they can spend time focused on providing value to dealers rather than spending time on administrative chores. If you're managing a sales or high performance field team, then you know that sales and high performance field team management is essential for success. In this episode, we're going to talk about some of the best practices for sales and high performance field team management, and how to implement them into your business. We'll discuss strategies for setting clear goals, optimizing workflows, and tracking metrics to drive results. We'll also talk about the importance of communication, collaboration, and coaching to empower your team. Overcoming obstacles like conflict, disengagement, and turnover will also be addressed. Tune in to learn tangible tactics to build an efficient, productive sales and field team. Whether you're looking to maximize productivity, boost revenue, or enhance team culture, this episode shares actionable advice to improve management. With the right field team management approach, you can exceed targets and take your business to the next level.

31 MAR 2024 · IfManaging field teams in the automotive industry can be challenging. With experienced dealers who know their business inside-out, field staff must bring real value through data and insights. This is where UON Global’s software comes in. By automating repetitive tasks like scheduling and reporting, the software enables field managers to focus on high-impact responsibilities. According to Kim Walker from UON Global, this not only improves efficiency but also collaboration between OEMs and dealers. In this video, we’ll explore how UON Global’s software helps optimize field team operations. With mobile access, reps can easily update accounts on-the-go. Automated reminders ensure critical action items aren’t missed. And centralized data offers transparency for dealers to track rep activities and progress. As Kim explains, these capabilities create accountability while simplifying management. The bottom line is that the right technology can transform field team excellence. UON Global’s software streamlines operations so managers can devote more time to strategic priorities. With improved efficiency, transparency, and collaboration, field teams are set up for success. Ready to take your field team to the next level? Be sure to subscribe and learn how UON Global drives results for the automotive industry.

24 MAR 2024 · The Rise of the Agency Model in Automotive. Welcome viewers! In this episode, we explore the unveiling of the agency model in the automotive industry. The automotive sales landscape is changing as automakers consider new retail approaches beyond the traditional franchise model. We are privileged to have Clive Prevost, an automotive executive with vast experience rolling out the agency model internationally. The franchise model, where automakers grant independent dealers the right to sell vehicles in a specific area, has long dominated car sales. Dealers buy inventory, then market, sell and service vehicles locally. In contrast, the agency model has automakers owning and operating retail locations tailored to their brand. They gain more control over inventory, pricing, customer experience and brand image. The agency model signals a major shift. Tesla’s success with company-owned stores shows its potential. As consumers change, more automakers are eyeing the agency model to improve the customer experience and stay competitive. Clive shares best practices for implementing agency stores and their impact. For automakers, the agency model allows greater control and brand consistency. For dealers, it may mean fewer opportunities but potential to become brand “agents.” For customers, it can mean an enhanced experience. The agency model holds promise for unlocking automotive success. We explore its implications for the future of car sales. Whether an automaker, dealer or industry stakeholder, this discussion of franchise vs agency models is critical. The automotive industry is transforming. The agency model signifies an exciting new chapter, focused on brand and customer. Join us as we navigate this journey into the future of automotive retail. The rise of the agency model means a new open road ahead!

19 MAR 2024 · In this insightful video, we delve into the reasons behind the exit of automotive manufacturing industry from Australia and the significance of having a vibrant automotive manufacturing industry. The video highlights the strategic importance of having a robust manufacturing base that can potentially pivot to manufacturing other products during times of conflict. The manufacturing base provides an avenue for skill development and for investment in other areas of manufacturing. With a strong automotive manufacturing industry, collaboration between universities and research institutes can be fostered as it encourages innovation and progress. Additionally, a strong automotive manufacturing industry contributes significantly to the tax base, which has a knock-on effect on investments in other sectors of the economy. The video touches on why the automotive manufacturing industry left Australia, citing reasons such as the high cost of doing business, the small domestic market, and the lack of government subsidies. It also highlights the significance of having an automotive manufacturing industry, not just for the benefits mentioned above, but also for the creation of jobs and the associated economic benefits that come with it. Overall, the video underlines the vital role played by an automotive manufacturing industry in terms of creating jobs, developing skills, encouraging investment, and building the tax base. Further, it highlights the critical need for governments and businesses to work collaboratively to create policies that encourage growth in the industry, thereby boosting Australia's economy and supporting its strategic interests. This information on this site is intended as a general reference for Internet users. It is made available on the understanding that Talking Automotive with Mark & John, as a result of providing this information, is not engaged in providing professional advice. Viewers & Listeners should seek their own advice re undertaking any commercial actions. All information in this site is provided "as is", with no guarantee of accuracy, timeline

17 MAR 2024 · Introducing our latest video, where we delve into the evolving dynamics between automotive manufacturers and dealerships. Traditionally, the relationship between these two parties operated on a power balance, with the manufacturer overseeing a diverse network of dealers with varying expertise. However, the landscape has shifted with the emergence of large dealer groups, demanding a more equitable partnership. To address this changing dynamic, manufacturers must adopt a professional approach, leveraging robust tools, efficient processes, and transparent communication for all stakeholders. Gone are the days of ad hoc processes; the relationship now requires an adult-to-adult interaction. In this insightful video, we sit down with Andreas Walker, CEO of UON Global, to shed light on how their innovative automotive franchise management software is revolutionizing field team management. By automating common field team tasks such as scheduling, reporting, and communications, UON Global's software empowers managers to focus on high-impact responsibilities like coaching, training, and strategic planning. Andreas highlights the profound impact this software has on both field team efficiency and collaboration between original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and dealerships. With features like mobile access, automated reminders, and centralized data, UON Global's software ensures transparency and accountability within field teams. Dealers gain valuable insight into representative activities and progress, while representatives stay on top of critical action items. In essence, Andreas stresses that the right technology can simplify and enhance field team management. With UON Global's automotive franchise software, managers can optimize their field teams for success. If you're ready to transform your field operations, be sure to subscribe and stay tuned to learn more about how cutting-edge technology can drive field team excellence. Join us on this journey towards a more efficient and collaborative automotive ecosystem. Subscribe now and unlock the potential of your field team with UON Global's ground breaking software.