Pub. 1 2019-2020 Issue 3

These are undoubtedly unprecedented times. What are you doing, as a small business, to weather the storm? We are looking at opportunities within our processes to strengthen our financial position in the current market. With the shortage of new vehicles being delivered to deal- erships right now, we are looking at the used car market and making sure we have the right preowned in- ventory on hand to supplement due to the shortage of new inventory. What are you doing to support your employees? First is sending out the message that we are open for business and offering a clean and safe environ- ment for visits and demonstra- tion drives. Another is we did not furlough or lay off any of our employees, and we are continually improving training for everyone as needed. We also adjusted pay plans to help employees maintain their livelihood. Our dealerships participated in the Payroll Protec- tion program to assist us in keeping our employees working so they can support their families. What are two things that you have learned from past experiences that are helping you navigate now? First is expense control. This un- foreseen challenge has caused us to take a closer look at nonproduc- tive expenses and costs associated with vendors we do business with etc. And secondly, we have not stopped advertising. We adjusted our digital marketing platforms to make sure we have a presence in this highly competitive climate. What effect do you think this crisis will have on the auto industry going forward? I think it will push more of our cus- tomers to our websites and pos- sibly more home or office demon - strations and delivery. What is the takeaway for you as a small-business owner and leader from this extraordinary experience that will guide your future business decisions? With all the challenges we have faced in the first half of 2020, we have learned that flexibility must be our most rigid policy. I think this will make us better prepared to meet future challenges. What are you and your dealerships doing for community outreach? Are you doing anything to support essential workers, including health care workers and first responders? The way we are helping in our com- munity is by continuing our financial support to programs we have sup- ported over the years. We respect and appreciate our essential workers and first responders. We offer additional savings on all new and preowned vehi- cles. Also, we provide service specials and discounts as needed. How did you become a dealer? Did you always aspire to be part of the auto industry? My father got in the business around 50 years ago, and I followed in his footsteps. He started me off VICE CHAIR Glenn Ritchey, Jr. GETTING TO KNOW continued on page 10 Pub Yr 1 2019-2020 | Issue 3 9 CFADA.ORG