What is the relationship between 4S stores and manufacturers?
2 Answers
4S stores and manufacturers are two different enterprises, not in a superior-subordinate relationship but in a cooperative one. Below is relevant information about 4S stores: 1. Introduction: The full name of a 4S store is Automobile Sales Service 4S Shop, which is an automobile sales enterprise integrating four functions: vehicle sales (Sale), spare parts (Sparepart), after-sales service (Service), and information feedback (Survey). 2. Demand: The emergence of 4S stores precisely meets various needs of users. They can provide well-equipped and clean maintenance areas, modern equipment and service management, a highly professional atmosphere, well-maintained service facilities, sufficient spare parts supply, and a prompt and timely tracking service system. Through the services of 4S stores, users can develop trust in the brand, thereby increasing sales.
As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I only learned from chatting with friends who own repair shops that the relationship between 4S stores and manufacturers is quite similar to that of franchisees and headquarters. The manufacturers, such as Toyota or Volkswagen, are the automakers who authorize 4S stores to sell their new vehicles and parts. The 4S stores, in turn, must adhere to the manufacturers' rules, like using genuine parts for repairs, maintaining a uniform store decor, and helping collect feedback from car owners. Every time I go for maintenance, the 4S store staff wear manufacturer uniforms, making it feel like they are the manufacturers' 'little helpers,' adding value to the brand. This relationship builds strong trust among customers—when there's a car issue, they can go directly to the 4S store without needing to contact the manufacturer's headquarters. Overall, it's a long-term partnership where the manufacturers provide vehicles and training, while the 4S stores handle sales and repairs, creating a mutually beneficial win-win situation.
