Since its launch, the program has onboarded 10,000 FADA members, with plans to add 5,000 more in the next two years.
Saugato Bhowmik, Director of CPG D2C Auto at Meta, highlighted the rapid growth of digital tools like Reels and messaging, emphasizing their significant role in shaping the customer journey and empowering dealerships.
WhatsApp has become vital for auto dealerships, with 48% of new vehicle buyers using it to connect. Saugato Bhowmik says, “WhatsApp is key for hyperlocal lead generation, offering direct, personal interactions that are crucial in today’s competitive market.”
Moreover, the role of influencers in the automotive sector cannot be underestimated, as per Meta. The white paper states that 72% of automotive buyers found influencer content helpful during their evaluation phase. CS Vigneshwar, President of FADA, comments on this trend thus, “Influencer partnerships are becoming essential. They help consumers navigate their choices and create a deeper connection with the brand. In a world where consumers are bombarded with information, trusted voices can guide them toward making informed decisions.”To leverage these insights, dealerships are urged to adopt an omnichannel approach, creating a seamless experience that blends both online and offline channels.Hyperlocal marketing has gained momentum, with local partnerships and targeted ads boosting brand awareness. Hyundai dealers, for example, saw a 34% improvement in lead quality after adopting hyperlocal strategies.
The report underscores the rising influence of digital transformation, with consumers now spending more time on social media than traditional media. It also reveals that Meta apps influenced 69% of automotive buyers in their purchase decisions.
Through this program, Meta provides training and support to dealerships, ensuring they are equipped to navigate this new landscape. Bhowmik says, “We are committed to upskilling dealers through exclusive training programs and certifications tailored [to] their needs. Our goal is to add another 5,000 dealers in the next two years, ensuring that the entire community of automotive dealerships is fully digitized.”
The partnership between Meta and FADA reflects a wider trend of businesses across industries embracing digitalization for growth. Meta and FADA believe that by adopting digital marketing strategies and focusing on key trends from the Shift Gears white paper, automotive OEMs and dealerships can boost customer engagement, increase sales, and succeed in an ever-changing market.
The partnership between Meta and FADA reflects a wider trend of businesses across industries embracing digitalization for growth. Meta and FADA believe that by adopting digital marketing strategies and focusing on key trends from the Shift Gears white paper, automotive OEMs and dealerships can boost customer engagement, increase sales, and succeed in an ever-changing market.