Is 'wholetailing' for you?

THE LATEST INNOVATION to hit the auto industry is "wholetailing," the online integration of retail and wholesale at the shop or dealer level.

The concept promises new efficiencies and profits for an industry where economic conditions, manufacturer decisions and the changing marketing landscape continue to challenge dealer profits.

According to AutoTrader.com's Industry Relations Director Howard Polirer, savvier businesses are realizing it's really the combination of both online retail and wholesale tools that will give them an edge, ensuring they're stocking the cars, parts or supplies buyers want at the right prices. It also leads to selling inventory wholesale that isn't moving in their market but might be in demand somewhere else and being flexible to meet changing market conditions as the economy, gas prices and other things impact what cars people want.