Investigating the marketing communication practices of car dealerships in Gauteng Province, South Africa

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to investigate the marketing communication practices of car dealerships, in order to identify what factors are considered in the selection of the marketing communication mix incorporated in the marketing communication strategy. Furthermore, identify and establish an understanding of the marketing communication mix elements used by car dealerships in their marketing communication strategies. A qualitative research approach was followed in this paper. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with marketing personnel of various car dealerships in Gauteng, South Africa. In this paper, a qualitative content analysis was followed, and Atlas.ti version 10 computer software was used to generate themes. The study uncovered that car dealerships use various marketing communication mix elements to achieve their marketing communication objectives, such as creating dealership brand awareness, stimulating sales, and closing sales transactions. The study revealed also uncovered that internet is also used by car dealerships in executing marketing communication strategies. The study revealed the internal and external factors considered in planning and executing marketing communication strategies and campaigns. The study further discovered that these marketing communication elements are not used in isolation, but support each other in conveying marketing messages that lead to the attainment of various marketing communication objectives. The findings revealed that despite the use of radio and print media, social media types are increasingly being used by dealerships to share information with existing customers and potential customers regarding the dealerships‟ products and special offers, although the use of social media platforms varied. The study also discovered that car dealerships experience some challenges in planning and executing marketing communication strategies and campaigns. Recommendations to stakeholders in the motor industry and future research directions are provided.