The summer months can be brutal on motor vehicles, with the harsh temperatures, driving rain, and the exponential increase in travel causing a great deal of wear and tear. This makes it a great time to launch a few marketing campaigns to draw customers into your auto shop. Finding creative ways to bring in new customers and maintain relationships with your current ones is essential in building a lasting business. Here we take a look at seven summer promotion ideas for your auto repair shop.
Full Diagnostic Testing
The price of a complete diagnostic varies from state to state. Depending on what you currently charge, offering a free detailed inspection can be a great incentive for customers to choose your shop over another. Letting your customers know the details of how their vehicle is functioning and any pertinent repairs can lead to additional business and help to build trust.
Discounted Oil Changes
Running a special on oil changes is nothing new, but with summer setting in, there may be a lot of drivers just getting back on the road seeking regular maintenance. Along with the discounted rate, you may consider offering a coupon for another one in the future. Be sure to date it and put their mileage, so they know when to come back.
Free Windshield Wipers
New windshield wipers are a great idea prior to the rainy summer season, and customers will undoubtedly appreciate a free pair when they come in for another service. Be sure to offer quality blades and for those who decline, offer a coupon that can be redeemed when they need a new pair.
Gift Cards For Future Services
Offer a gift card good toward future services to each customer that comes in during a specific event such as Small Business Saturday, New Years Day, or Valentine's Day. Be sure your gift cards are valuable enough to persuade customers to return and don't restrict the services they can be used for.
Company Branded Items
Giving away company branded merchandise provides value to the customer and can help to create word-of-mouth advertising. Items like t-shirts, travel mugs, key chains, and flashlights can all be branded with your company logo and contact information. These items can serve as an advertisement for years to come.
Raffles And Contests
Putting together a raffle for a popular or exclusive automotive-related item or running contests with prizes including free services and gear can draw a great deal of attention to your establishment. Find a few things that will catch people's eye and promote within your store and on social media.
Customer Rewards Program
The summer is a great time to launch a customer rewards program if you don't already have one in place. These programs provide incentives for customers to keep returning to your store and significantly impact loyalty. If you already have a rewards program in place, consider offering bigger rewards leading up to and through the back-to-school season.
Click below to learn more ways to grow your auto repair business!
