At Digital Dealership System, we know the auto industry is facing major changes — from market shifts to customer behavior to unpredictable pricing. It’s no longer about just keeping up — it’s about staying ahead. We’re here to help dealers pivot their strategies and stay profitable, no matter what the future brings.
We’re offering digital signs and leaderboards to power your dealership with real-time engagement tools. But more importantly, we’ve got a plan to help you thrive — not just survive.
Key Takeaways
- Stop wasting money on new car ads — the market is changing, and your budget should too.
- Leasing offers affordability and flexibility that today’s customers crave.
- Used car inventory is where the real margin lives — stock up and turn fast.
- Service drives are prime real estate for marketing and customer retention.
- Real-time leaderboards and digital signage boost both employee performance and customer engagement.
Rethink Your Ad Strategy to Stay Profitable
With rising new car prices and fewer buyers in the market, traditional advertising may no longer deliver the same ROI. Dealers who continue to pour money into new car campaigns could be throwing money at a shrinking pool of buyers. Now is the time to reassess and reallocate ad dollars where they’ll make the most impact. Strategic shifts can help maximize exposure and profits.
Cut New Car Ads and Shift to High-Intent Channels
If customers are holding onto vehicles longer, your dealership must adapt. Redirect funds from low-ROI new car ads to channels with higher conversion potential like leasing, service, or used car promotions. Less volume doesn’t mean less revenue — it just requires smarter marketing. You’ll reach more qualified prospects and make each dollar go further.
Tap into Leasing Demand for Steady Sales
As financial pressures mount on buyers, leasing becomes more attractive thanks to its lower monthly costs and flexible terms. Lease specials offer a way to provide value without the sticker shock of new car pricing. Dealers who lead with these offers position themselves as affordable and customer-focused. This is especially key for those with expiring leases.
Promote Lease Specials to Engage Budget-Conscious Buyers
Lease campaigns speak directly to customers in today’s market — especially those not ready to commit to long-term financing. Promote lease options heavily through digital ads, showroom materials, and service lounge displays. Use clear messaging around affordability, low-risk options, and trade-in values. The more accessible your lease programs, the more engagement you’ll earn.
Increase Used Car Inventory to Meet Buyer Demand
Used vehicles are in high demand, especially as new car pricing pushes more buyers out of the market. Stocking up on quality used vehicles allows you to appeal to a broader audience while increasing margins. Dealerships that can turn used inventory quickly will have a clear advantage in both profitability and market share.
Position Your Dealership as the Used Car Destination
More buyers are opting for used vehicles, and that means more opportunity to stand out. Make your lot and website the go-to source for certified, inspected, and well-priced pre-owned cars. Emphasize trade-in programs, financing options, and transparent pricing. A strong used car strategy boosts your bottom line while delivering what today’s customers want.
Leverage Service Drive Traffic for Marketing
Every customer who comes in for service is an opportunity — and 100% of them pass through your service lane. By marketing to them while they wait, you tap into a captive audience that’s already engaged. Service upgrades, vehicle trade evaluations, and loyalty programs all become part of the conversation.
Add Service Menus and Real-Time Status Boards
Service marketing isn’t just about upselling oil changes — it’s about creating awareness of your value and expertise. Use digital service menus, “Dare to Compare” boards, and service status TVs to highlight pricing, promotions, and why-buy messages. Customers who trust your service are more likely to return, refer, and eventually buy. This is retention marketing at its finest.
Use Digital Tools to Motivate Staff and Retain Customers
Your employees are your frontline — and they thrive with visibility, recognition, and data. Real-time leaderboards and mobile dashboards keep performance transparent and staff accountable. At the same time, in-lounge digital signage can convert service “waiters” into buyers through targeted, engaging content.
Combine Real-Time Data and In-Lounge Marketing for Impact
Leaderboards aren’t just tech — they’re culture drivers. They create friendly competition, goal awareness, and real-time motivation. Meanwhile, use existing showroom and lounge TVs to promote lease offers, trade appraisals, and customer testimonials. Add QR codes to let customers explore options from their phones. When employees are inspired and customers are informed, everyone wins.
Conclusion
Navigating today’s automotive market takes more than luck — it takes action. Dealers who pivot quickly, focus on high-ROI channels, and make the most of every customer touchpoint will come out ahead. From cutting wasteful ad spend to turning service visits into sales, the opportunities are real — and so are the results. At Digital Dealership System, we’re proud to support dealers with the tools and strategies they need to thrive. Let’s drive the future forward — together.
FAQ’s
Q: How do digital service boards help drive revenue?
A: They inform and engage customers, build trust, and promote services in real-time. Clear, transparent service messaging encourages upgrades and loyalty.
Q: Are leaderboards really effective for sales teams?
A: Absolutely. Leaderboards provide real-time data, boost morale through friendly competition, and help staff track progress toward goals — all of which improve performance.
Q: How do QR codes help move customers from service to sales?
A: QR codes make it easy for service customers to explore trade values, financing options, and inventory while they wait — helping convert downtime into deal time.
Q: What’s the best way to promote lease specials?
Use digital signage, showroom TVs, email marketing, and your website to spotlight lease offers. Highlight affordability, value, and ease of access to draw attention and drive conversions.
Todd Katcher is the Chief Product Officer of Digital Dealership System, a leader of in-store digital signage and real-time performance leaderboards for car dealerships. With a deep understanding of automotive marketing, KPI tracking, and dealership operations, Todd helps dealerships nationwide increase profits through data-driven strategies and engaging digital experiences.
