FACING AND OVERCOMING CHALLENGES Like many small businesses beginnings , Friday Trailer Sales faced some challenges in its early years . Accessing inventory was tough , especially for a new dealership in a competitive market . The onset of COVID-19 only exacerbated these hurdles , with supply chain disruptions limiting trailer availability . “ The customers were there , but the products were hard to come by ,” said Josh . “ In one quarter , despite working with four or five different manufacturers , we only had three trailers to sell .”
However , the Fridays turned adversity into opportunity . The increased demand for trailers during the pandemic brought visibility to their dealership , and their dedication to quality products and personalized service kept customers coming back .
Operating in Texarkana posed its own unique challenges . While the region ’ s proximity to manufacturers allowed for efficient shipping and personal interactions , it also meant stiff competition . Josh stood out by prioritizing customer needs making a sale .
A CUSTOMER FIRST APPROACH Friday Trailer Sales may be small but serve customers nationwide , with some traveling as far as Hawaii . This success stems from their genuine , customer-first philosophy . Josh takes the time to educate buyers about their options , ensuring they leave with the trailer best suited to their needs .
Their transparency and fair pricing have built a solid base of repeat customers who will come hundreds of miles just to buy from them again . They also forged partnerships with smaller dealerships that lack the space or adequate financing to stock many trailers , opening new revenue streams and creating a strong network in the industry ,
LEVERAGING NATDA RESOURCES Since joining the North American Trailer Dealers Association ( NATDA ) in 2023 , they credit some of their growth to the education , discounts , and networking opportunities provided by NATDA . From classes on business trends to hands-on service training , NATDA ’ s resources have helped refine their operations and adapt to a changing market .
Attending the NATDA Trailer Show has been especially impactful . The event has introduced them to new products and industry innovations , while networking with other dealers has
fostered a support system . These relationships have offered guidance , camaraderie , and best practices . “ Everyone in this industry is so welcoming and sharing , no matter the company size . We make it a priority to attend the Trailer Show every year ,” commented Josh . “ One year due last minute family illnesses , we had to cut our trip to just one day . But we still made it there – and it was worth it !”
NATDA ’ s partnerships with financial and warranty service providers has allowed them to offer their customers better ability for flexible financing and protection plans , particularly online .
MORE THAN JUST SOCIAL MARKETING As the dealership ’ s organizational manager , Jessica has the vital role in keeping internal processes running smoothly , especially when it comes to paperwork . However , she also manages all of Friday ’ s social media outreach . Under her leadership , the dealership ’ s social media following increased from 4,800 to over 25,000 in just one year .
For Jessica , social media isn ’ t just about advertising — it ’ s about sharing their family-oriented lifestyle and using their platform to benefit the local community . “ When you ’ re in this industry , it becomes a lifestyle and we love sharing it ,” said Jessica . “ We help out with events and by giving donations in the local community and Josh offers hayrides for the kids where their daughter went to school .”
STAYING TRUE TO THEIR VALUES The Fridays are real in their commitment to quality and honesty . They try to deliver the best quality products from manufacturers like Diamond C , even if it means forgoing short-term profits . “ Our name is on the sign ,” Josh says . “ I take the phone calls when something goes wrong . I ’ ve got to carry quality products , or I don ’ t want to do this .”
This philosophy guides their plans for expansion . While they aim to grow , they are determined to maintain their small business feel and prioritize customer needs first .
BUILDING A LEGACY Friday Trailer Sales is building a legacy of trust and integrity in person and online . For those considering a similar path , Josh offers simple yet powerful advice : “ Focus on what you can do , go all in on that , and the rest will follow .”
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