Recently , Dealer Advisory Council member Shane Thompson celebrated the 20th anniversary of his dealership , Action Trailers of Strathroy , Ontario .
NATDA took the time to ask him about his sustained success .
Congratulations to Action Trailers on 20 years of business ! In your mind , what are the three most important things a dealer can do to sustain dealership longevity ?
The three points I feel are most important in sustaining a dealership for decades are :
1 ) Create a Vision and Stick to It - Infinite possibilities come to those who believe & stay on track . I have always had dreams of becoming one of the largest trailer dealerships in Canada while being ethical and doing what is right . This vision has been paramount to our success .
2 ) Execution and Hustle – “ Execution ” and “ Hustle ” are two adjectives by which I have always lived . I believe there ’ s a point where you must stop talking and put in the work . Working 80 + hour weeks for over a decade is what built the business we have today . It hasn ’ t been easy and certainly has taken a toll . However , I have learned a lot throughout this experience to better my work / life balance .
3 ) Delegation - You can ’ t build an empire on your own , and as much as I tried to at the beginning , I learned that you ’ ll burn yourself out . As a business owner , you need to learn to let go and hire staff to help run your business and learn not to micromanage every decision . Trusting the people that you hire and supporting ongoing communication has been the bridge between confusion and clarity for us .
The learn more about the story of Action Trailers , scan the code :
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU ! The Dealer Advisory Council is here to advise on issues that are most important to NATDA Dealer Members . From questions on inventory management to hiring , staffing and management , this group of experienced trailer professionals is happy to share their knowledge and experience . Let us know which topics you ’ d like to see the Council address in future issues and other communications .
Contact NATDA at council @ natda . org . Please use subject line “ Advisory Council .”
The opinions here represent the diversity of opinion within the light to medium-duty trailer industry . The views and opinions expressed are those of the contributor and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the North American Trailer Dealers Association who shall not be held liable for any inaccuracies presented .
10 NATDA Magazine www . natda . org