Training

Parts suppliers might seem an unusual choice in this respect, but prestige brands supplying the aftermarket with true OE quality parts are well placed to keep all levels of the supply chain informed about product developments and applications. Here at ZF Services for instance, we regularly hold product training sessions for staff at motor factors and parts distributors. Over 300 individuals benefited from these in the last year.

These training events provide an opportunity for the sales advisor to gain specialised knowledge of individual vehicle parts and systems, putting him the trainee in an ideal position to pass on to customers informed and up-to-date guidance on the latest products and technology. Far from having a limited knowledge of and interest in the parts they stock, quite the opposite may be true – so go ahead and pick their brains when you’re next on the ‘phone to them or standing at the parts counter.

While the internet is a popular source of information, parts suppliers’ websites may not be the obvious first choice for most technicians – and if that’s the case, they could be missing a trick or two. For example, ZF Services offers WebCat, which is available on the catalogue page etc and always has the most up-to-date version of catalogue data for the SACHS, LEMFÖRDER, BOGE and ZF Parts brands.