Backing Dealers, Building the Industry:
A Conversation with Diamond C’ s Derek Hentges
In an industry built on hard work and innovation, the future of the trailer world is being shaped by those who understand that progress doesn’ t just happen in product lines. Derek Hentges, member of NATDA’ s Manufacturer Council and Director of Sales and Service at Diamond C Trailers, believes that investing in dealers is the key to long-term growth across the entire supply chain.“ It’ s not just about the product,” he shared during a recent conversation with NATDA.“ It’ s about what we can do to support the people who sell, service, and speak directly to the end user.”
Win-Win Partnerships While economic conditions have caused some to raise prices, Hentges emphasized the importance of working alongside dealers. Diamond C has kept price increases minimal, just two to three percent recently, and stayed in close communication with dealers throughout.“ We’ re not looking to push pricing to the limit,” Hentges said.“ Our focus is on long-term partnership— supporting our dealers so they can succeed with their customers.” That approach builds trust and ensures that dealers aren’ t left carrying the weight of shifting costs on their own.
Women Continue Growing as a Key Part of Our Industry Some of the most meaningful progress is being driven by new voices across the industry. Hentges noted that women are excelling in sales at dealerships.“ Women at the dealership level are absolutely crushing it,” he said.“ They’ re consistent, knowledgeable, and often lead the way when it comes to engaging with customers.” As the industry continues to diversify, creating more opportunities for women in all levels of business is proving to be a smart one, too.
The Future is Built on Connection At the end of the day, the trailer industry thrives on connection: between manufacturers and dealers, between educators and technicians, between the new generation and the one before it.“ We can’ t be afraid to challenge what’ s always been done,” Hentges emphasized.“ Because when we support people and build trust, the industry gets stronger for everyone.”
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! The NATDA Manufacturer Council is here to advise on the issues that matter most to NATDA Dealer Members. Whether it’ s inventory management, hiring, staffing, or operations, this group of experienced trailer professionals is ready to share their insights and expertise. What topics would you like the Council to address in future articles and communications? Let us know, and we’ ll cover them in upcoming issues!
Email NATDA at corey @ natda. org with the subject line,“ Manufacturer Council.”
26 NATDA Magazine www. natda. org