Safelite moving into dealerships?

[GlassTech]

Interesting to see that Safelite is moving into the dealership market. Stopped by three dealership to acquire some new business however the managers told me they’ve signed a contract with Safelite on repairs and replacements. I’m sure they’ll replace more than getting windshields repaired as I’ve seen it happened before at fleet vendors. And I'm note even willing to go into the quality of workmanship as repair is not they're core business. They also assured me they stop by each week for a audit on the glass, so no slacking on that department.

Is business that bad for Safelite so they're forced to venture into small dealerships or is it since they’ve merged with Belron that orders is to leave no stone unturned?
Not that they're a real threat however would like to know if this is happening in other regions to and what your professional opinion on this matter would be.
Thanks!

[Daveycrewcut]

Did Safelite get an "exclusive" contract? Most Dealerships have more than one vendor for windshield repair and usually whoever gets there first gets to do the job
(providing you do good work)

[splitpit]

Most dealerships, regardless of the car make they represent, are independently owned and operated. I don't think you would see them signing off on exclusive contracts. Most want the freedom to remain independent, with the ability to make or change their decisions day to day. The ones I know would not allow themselves to get locked-in with a particular vender.

[GlassTech]

Hey guys, thanks for the reply. The way the managers explained it, seems to be a non compete contract. I’m not to sure if this allows them for discount on glass replacement, either way they going to need it. Well all of the mangers hold on to my business card and I’ll return in due time for a follow up. Thanks once again.

[Glassdoc]

Well, if you do get your foot back in the door due to the dealerships not being 100% satisfied with Safelites quality. Then a definate price increase is due.. It lets them know that your service is worth more than they thought.. The only "contracts" I've seen around here is from Diamond for replacement glass.. Nothing in the repair line.

[screenman]

Normaly they will negotiate a non complete clause as part of a reduction on replacement costs. The rather dense manager has no clue that his replacement ratio will rise.

[GlassTech]

Thanks Screenman my point exactly. Beside the fact that their repairs are of no standard whatsoever, they force replacement where a repair could have been done. I’m a firm believer in keeping replacements separate from repairs in a business. Keeps both parties honest and promote specialists in their own field.

[splitpit]

Fortunately for me, Safelite doesn't venture into 75% of my territory. And I've never lost an account to another windshield repair tech. I have some very loyal accounts but nothings ever set in stone in this business.

[GlassTech]

Sound great, loyal customers and quality-professional service makes it impossible for any competition to enter. Keep up the good work splitpit!

[Frank EU]

"Not that they're a real threat"
Wake up! Or should I say ... wait and see what's gonna happen?
Watch them, you'll be surprised.