For the female parts managers crushing the auto parts and accessories eCommerce game, success is all about shattering expectations. First, there’s the obvious one: that women should take a back seat in the male-dominated automotive industry. As the three women you’re about to meet prove, there’s no chance of that happening.
The other expectations these women exceed on a daily basis are those of their customers. They had the foresight and the smarts to start selling online with RevolutionParts, creating the perfect shopping experience that brings in new customers from all over the world and keeps them coming back to their dealer store.
So who are the women delivering revenue like never before, crushing the aftermarket, and showing that auto parts eCommerce is not just a man’s game? Meet the history-making parts pros using RevolutionParts to level the playing field.
Sabrina Bordelon, Parts Director at Walker Automotive Group in Alexandria, LA
As the only woman on her executive team, Sabrina always felt that she had to go above and beyond to gain recognition for her good ideas. So when she took the six stores that make up Walker Automotive Group online, she knew what was at stake.
Sabrina has never stopped looking for new solutions to grow her business over the 22 years she’s been Parts Director at Walker. The RevolutionParts storefront plug-in was the tool that transformed her dealers’ fortunes, giving Sabrina and her team full control over pricing and customer service. In her first year selling online, Sabrina set a goal of $5,000 a month – and outperformed it by over 250%.
The success of her auto parts eCommerce business has put Sabrina in a position to keep the line moving, which she does by bringing more women onto the team. Because, as she says, “we know how to create a culture of happy customers.”
The other expectations these women exceed on a daily basis are those of their customers. They had the foresight and the smarts to start selling online with RevolutionParts, creating the perfect shopping experience that brings in new customers from all over the world and keeps them coming back to their dealer store.
Katherine Akre, eCommerce Specialist at Honda Superstore of Lisle, IL
Katherine was used to the remarks her customers would make when they saw her behind the parts counter. “Is there anyone else I can talk to?” was a common question, and Katherine was always quick with the firm but polite response: “No, you can talk to me.” She knew customers were really asking if there was a man available, but just one interaction with Katherine is enough to know she has the toughness and the people skills to get the job done.
The six-year parts pro brought her excellent customer service skills and meticulous attention to detail with her when she brought Honda of Lisle online with RevolutionParts. She manages her store’s online presence herself, updating parts images and descriptions, processing orders and, most importantly, staying in contact with her customers.
The convenience of a RevolutionParts dealer webstore attracts customers, but it’s Katherine who keeps them coming back. One customer made 46 orders over the course of just a year, a testament to the outstanding service Katherine provides.
Britney Thomas, Internet Parts Director at Steve Thomas BMW in Camarillo, CA
Britney made it her business to grow the family business, and has seen massive success since selling online with RevolutionParts. A third-generation auto professional, Britney developed The Steve Thomas BMW online presence with a little help from her customers. “I talked to customers to make the website easier and more user-friendly for them,” says Britney, and her dealer’s streamlined RevolutionParts storefront is the result of her tireless commitment to doing right by her customers.
The family-owned dealership has become an online selling powerhouse, bringing in nearly $50k in monthly revenue. Britney also works to grow the brand’s presence elsewhere online, including a dedicated Instagram page and regular posts on BMW forums to attract shoppers. Britney goes where the shoppers are to create unforgettable experiences, and the performance of Steve Thomas BMW speaks for itself.
Each of these amazing women share an incredible depth of knowledge, an unwavering dedication to customer service and a belief in the power of selling online. They’re busting down expectations at every turn and inspiring women and men across the country. Are you ready to start a revolution in your parts department?
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