The primary sales channels for car goods and services include specialty stores, car dealers, gas stations, tire shops, and home improvement centers. In recent years, sales of services and merchandise by competitors outside the industry have increased, and the numbers of gas stations and small and medium channels have declined.
With a store network that covers every one of Japan’s prefectures, one of AUTOBACS’ strengths is the convenience of being accessible to customers whenever they need us. Adding to our standard stores and Super AUTOBACS stores serving larger areas, we have been opening compact stores over the past several years to serve smaller areas. Combining the strengths of all three types of stores, we support our customers with superior service.
The overwhelming coverage of our merchandise offerings is one of our strengths. AUTOBACS carries everything from the most familiar name-brand merchandise, to innovative items aimed at maximizing the enjoyment of cars in unexpected but extremely useful ways, and a vast array of private brand merchandise. A full range of inspection and maintenance services is another defining feature of AUTOBACS stores.
AUTOBACS employs approximately 3,700 mechanics, safety inspectors, and others who have passed national certification examinations and are ready to provide customers with expert advice. We also have our own internal systems for certifying that employees have attained certain levels knowledge regarding, for example, merchandise and basic automobile maintenance. These employees, as well, contribute to greater customer trust and satisfaction.