NATDA Magazine May/Jun 2019 NM_May2019_FINAL050119 | Page 50

Trailer dealers, like other service-based businesses, are facing new challenges when it comes to engaging with consumers. Consumers are becoming used to a digitally-powered, tech-first buying cycle, and traditional industries are struggling to keep up with the changes. While most trailer purchases are made out of necessity and need, the competition in the space makes every single consumer touchpoint that much more critical. So, in order to be successful, modern trailer dealers must be able to differentiate themselves from the competition while delivering 50 consumers with the digital buying experience they crave. Texting customers is not necessarily a new concept, but it is one that is gaining popularity in B2C industries as a way to tackle modern retail challenges. Consumers prefer the streamlined, direct line of communication that texting delivers over older, clunky engagement channels like email and phone calls. More than 88% of shoppers prefer texting with vendors, and trailer dealers can use this modern channel to engage with customers on a more personal, digital level. continued on page 52 NATDA Magazine www.natda.org