BMW Focuses on Keeping Its Dealership Network Strong

BMW of North America LLC is focusing on keeping its dealer network strong and also increasing sales of pre-owned vehicles, which rose 16.4% last year, says Jim O'Donnell, president of the company.

BMW's total used-vehicle business is up 18% so far this year, helping dealers stay solvent.

BMW dealers have invested $21.5 million in technical training and facilities improvements in the last three years and more than $2 billion in new facilities over the last seven years.

O'Donnell says the BMW brand commands strong customer loyalty, with 97% of vehicles serviced at franchised dealers, compared with the industry average of 50%, resulting in BMWs being better maintained.