In what seems to be a good sign for the industry as a whole, ABC Companies has experienced excellent attendance at their four regional open houses/live bus & parts auctions hosted to-date this year, with successful sales of virtually every bus included in the auctions. A fifth event is planned for August 15 at ABC’s facility in Costa Mesa, California.
“We’ve had several of these at our locations in recent years and each has been successful,” Roman Cornell, ABC’s senior vice president – east, pointed out. “We’ve noticed that in addition to increasing attendance, the level of enthusiasm appears to be building. Customers seem to feel that the live auctions offer some terrific values. We see big crowds around the ‘rummage sale’ area with customers finding bargains on all sorts of used parts and components that have accumulated as we refurbish used coaches and prepare new ones for delivery.”
Cornell credits some of the energy to operators feeling that the industry is poised for a comeback and to the enthusiastic participation of ABC’s personnel in planning and running the events. “We get everyone involved. It’s a great time, customers meet the people that help them on the phone, and get some real bargains on coaches and parts. It’s an opportunity for us to show appreciation to our customers and strengthen relationships at the same time.”
“The success of the events in New Jersey, Texas, Minnesota and Florida has our Costa Mesa team really excited,” said Clint Guth, ABC’s senior vice president – west. “The Open Houses are not only a time to celebrate with customers, but also a great time for our staff to show how much we appreciate them. And, there are some great deals to be had at the auctions.”
The August 15 event in Costa Mesa will be similar to the ones that have taken place, with a live auction of pre-owned coaches and pallets of parts, on-site service specials and a 15 percent parts discount for parts ordered onsite that day. The California event has an added touch – customers who come to the open house are invited to stay and watch the Angels play the Indians at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, CA. Transportation to and from Angel Stadium will be provided with coaches departing from the ABC lot. To RSVP for the ABC – Costa Mesa auction and open house, operators can contact their ABC account representative. Additional information is available at www.abc-companies.com/CAauction.