The "kfz-betrieb" Internet Sales Award is entering its ninth round: In 2012, the trade magazine, together with its partners Bank Deutsches Kraftfahrzeuggewerbe (BDK) and AutoScout24, is once again looking for car dealerships that take care of their online business effectively. Internet sales have become an important strategic pillar for car dealerships in Germany: Over 90 percent of all new and used car purchases are initiated there. "Online business is no longer just a sideline, but an important part of dealership sales," explained Achim Kreyenpoth from award partner BDK at last year's ceremony. Peter Lorenzen from AutoScout24 added: "In my opinion, the Internet Sales Award is a valuable tool for car dealerships to critically examine the quality of their Internet presence."



This year, representatives of the editorial team and the sponsors are once again embarking on a grand tour. The experience of previous years shows how important it is to get a clear picture of the applicants on site and in direct conversation. "We don't award prizes for the best website, but rather specifically scrutinize the online processes at the dealership. This is where every dealership has the greatest potential to stand out from the competition," emphasizes Wolfgang Michel, Editor-in-Chief of "kfz-betrieb". The final ranking will be revealed by "kfz-betrieb" at the awards ceremony during the leading trade fair for the automotive industry, Automechanika 2012.



The award ceremony will take place on 13.09.2012 at 15:00 (Maritim Hotel at the Frankfurt exhibition grounds)



The event is open to the public and free of charge. For better planning, the editorial team asks you to register in advance via www.internet-sales-award.de.



Every year, around 200 car dealerships and workshops take part in the nationwide, cross-brand competition for the Internet Sales Award organized by "kfz-betrieb", AutoScout24 and Bank Deutsches Kraftfahrzeuggewerbe (BDK). It is aimed at car dealerships and independent dealerships that sell new and used cars via the Internet. It is clear to see that the level of online sales is continuously improving: clear processes, fast response times, social media activities and creative online campaigns are part of everyday life at the top companies.



Information and application documents at www.internet-sales-award.de



"kfz-betrieb" is the most widely read trade magazine in the automotive industry and has been informing the automotive trade and service sector for over 100 years. "kfz-betrieb" is the official organ of the German Motor Vehicle Trade (ZDK), the professional interest group for around 38,000 car dealerships and workshops. News from the entire automotive industry is available at www.kfz-betrieb.de and in the daily newsletter. The parent company Vogel Business Media is one of Germany's leading providers of specialist information with around 100 trade journals and over 100 web portals, business events and numerous international activities. Its headquarters are in Würzburg. The company celebrated its 120th birthday in 2011.