I've often said that one of Ford's greatest advantages over GM and Chrysler is they have not fractured their dealer network. They don't have to contend with the ill-will generated as a result of terminating hundreds of dealerships with the blunt tool of bankruptcy.
Taking their advantage one step further, Ford took out a full-page ad in the current issue of Automotive News to emphasize that their dealers are a vital part of Ford's success and the company sees them as partners.
Here's an excerpt from the ad:
What is the one message you would like to give dealers?
The Ford and Lincoln Mercury Dealers are the backbone of Ford Motor Company and the pillars of their communities. We appreciate the partnership we enjoy and look forward to launching even more new products with our dealers in the coming year.
I'm sure Ford's not perfect and I'm sure there are some factory/dealer issues, but I thought the ad was awesome.
