Cottman relaunches local franchisee websites

HORSHAM, Pa, (Dec. 10, 2015) — In a move to enhance the online experience for its customers and better connect with them on a localized basis, national transmission and car care chain Cottman Transmission and Total Auto Care has re-launched nearly 60 websites for its franchised auto care centers.

The Horsham-based company said the sites are an extension of the theme and design of the brand's national website, which underwent a major overhaul in August, offering upgrades, new features and added content for consumers seeking information and advice on car maintenance and repair.

The upgraded local websites also will offer material from the firm's national website, such as its content-rich blog, “The Cottman Man,” which the company said has “won positive recognition from the automotive industry."

It pointed to the re-launched website of a local franchisee, in Columbia, S.C., as an example of the updated look for other sites.

“Our goal is to position our local Cottman Man in each community as the resource for a full range of information and advice about car care and maintenance for the customer's vehicle,” said Derik Beck, Cottman's vice president of digital marketing.

The new websites, he said, are designed to help customers identify specific problems with their cars and indicate which might require a visit to their local Cottman center for a free diagnostic and, if needed, a plan for repair with a complete estimate.

The sites include local Cottman contact information and links, news of special offers and discounts, as well as other brand and local information that is updated frequently. Customers can schedule appointments online through the site, according to the company.

“We want our local sites to be the must-visit place online for information that can help customers keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely,” Mr. Beck added. “The sites are about more than selling our service. They also will help build and enhance the local Cottman Man's connection with the community.”

The new sites are designed to work seamlessly across all format including mobile platforms, Mr. Beck said, and are at the forefront of Cottman's customer engagement.

“Outstanding customer service is at the core of all we do,” Cottman President Randy Wright said. “The enhanced local websites are a digital extension of our ongoing efforts to serve our customers on many levels, including being there for them with useful and easy-to-access information.”