Like many other businesses, COVID-19 disrupted Manheim operations in a huge way. Moving to an all-simulcast, digital, environment presented many logistical challenges for customers and staff. As things in the industry began to improve, the wholesale giant brought back over 3,000 of its furloughed employees, and more positive signs are on the horizon according to Manheim Divisional Vice President, Alan Lang.
In recent weeks, Manheim has also made updates to its all-digital block sale format. During the early on-set of COVID-19, navigating the safety concerns and unknowns about the virus was essential to pivoting operational strategies. In response, Manheim created an intentional approach to not only look out for the safety of team members and clients but to also allow customers to preview inventory and bring them back for in-lane bidding at auctions with digital block sales. 36 sites are now back online with live bidding.
“As we had to go down this all-in approach, clients, I think, have really started to see the value of the time saved from attending physical auctions,” says Alan. “I think the investments that Manheim has made with our condition reports, moving from a seven image package to a fifteen image package, we’re able to provide more transparency.”
For more great insight from Alan Lang, be sure to watch our entire interview above.
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