Suzuki Philippines Inc. (SPH), the pioneer compact car distributor in the country, has reopened some of its auto stores after almost a month-long halt in dealership operations.
Following the resumption of some of its dealership operations, SPH has also made sure to set forth dealership reopening guidelines in order to prevent the spread of the virus among its employees and customers.
As of May 4, out of 79 SPH dealerships located in different parts of the Philippines,17 dealerships resumed operations. The following dealerships are: Bohol, Cagayan De Oro, Calbayog, Dumaguete, General Santos, SM General Santos, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Isabela, Kalibo, La Union, Naga, Ormoc, Ozamiz, Palawan, Roxas, and Tacloban
Despite the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) being lifted in the communities where SPH has decided to reopen, the auto company said that it takes into paramount consideration the safety of its employees and customers.
In order to do this, SPH introduced “New Normal” Business Operations with to-do’s that are easy to remember: S.M.A.R.T. Sanitize Thoroughly, Maintain Safe Distancing, Adhere Strictly, Reach People Online,and Think Positive.
The company said that those who are looking into visiting Suzuki dealerships should expect
that these guidelines will be followed and not only seen through signages, but in actuality. Sanitizing thoroughly will include requiring employees to sanitize areas in the store more often than usual particularly workplaces and customer lounges at least every two hours.
Sanitation Stations will also be available in environments such as the reception, negotiation tables, cashier windows, and service areas. Vehicles will be sanitized in the shops as well upon arrival from their designated distributor, before and after release for test drives, and to customers who will purchase them.
To maintain safe distancing, the company said that lesser vehicles will be displayed in the showrooms and meeting attendees per transaction will be reduced to keep negotiation tables uncrowded.
Wearing of masks, body temperature check upon entering dealerships are to be adhered strictly by employees daily. For customers, home delivery of their fully sanitized vehicle is encouraged.
Customers who would like to pick up their vehicle are encouraged to come alone for the handover ceremony, according to the company. To lessen face-to-face interaction, useful and adequate information, appointment bookings, test drive requests and applications, and other transactions will be available digitally.