EPISODE 11
Boosting Retention with a Tire-First Strategy
Featuring Guest WES VOLKERT
Episode Description
Why do so many dealerships let tire sales—and customer retention—slip through their fingers? Wes Volkert, Parts Director and tire expert, breaks down how dealerships can transform their tire sales strategy to drive loyalty and long-term growth.
In this episode, Wes dives into the often-overlooked role of tires in retention. He shares how leveraging manufacturer programs, optimizing inventory, and fostering customer awareness can dramatically boost retention rates. Wes also highlights the critical opportunity dealerships have with EVs and why tires will become an even bigger focus as other maintenance needs decline.
Takeaways from this episode:
- The surprising impact of tire sales on customer retention
- How to overcome common challenges like inventory management and space constraints
- Why EVs make tire expertise essential for service departments
- Practical steps to increase tire penetration and keep customers coming back

BILL SPRINGER
and president of Krex Inc.

Wes Volkert
Parts Director/Tire Geek
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