We are facing an unprecedented situation with the Coronavirus pandemic affecting our families, communities and businesses. With many throughout the aftermarket suffering interruptions due to the pandemic, the current economic climate is more challenging than ever.

Encouraging however, is that several resellers we spoke with over the last couple of weeks have said that their online sales have jumped anywhere from 10% to 17% above previous months, even as their in-store experience has slowed. This surge of consumers, shopping online, possibly presents an opportunity to mitigate the impact of this downturn and enhanced product data can be a key component in weathering the storm.

For manufacturers, your data can convey your brand and message to the market at a time when online shopping and buying activities are up. Take the time now to work with your SDC category team to add new products or improve your product data. Potential areas for enhancement might include:

• product attributes
• vehicle fitment review and coverage
• detailed product descriptions
• an upgrade of digital assets where possible

For resellers, reevaluate the product lines you're selling and consider adding or refreshing your datasets from the SDC. You can also install the SDC eCommerce plugin for WooCommerce (and soon Shopify) for a quicker launch of your online sales. The best part is your membership to SDC and access to the plugins are free. Go to the demo website for more information and access to the plugin.

The SDC values the role we play in helping our members' businesses succeed and prosper. Even as we are focused on the health and safety of our team, we remain laser-focused on our commitment to your success. The SDC was founded by the industry, for the industry, and our team is continuing with full-force, uninterrupted support to help where we can.

We have an amazing team at the SDC and want to let you know that we are here for you. We are committed to being a partner to you and persevering together as we forge ahead, come together, adapt and grow through the days and years ahead.

For more information, you can contact us at 888-958-6698 or email info@semadatacoop.org.

Stay safe and be well!

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