NATDA Magazine Sept/Oct 2018 NM_Sept2018 | Page 31

Howe’s not only committed to build- quality, but to customer service and dealer-relationship nurturing as well. It’s a passion that all of Impact’s owners share and something Howe believes keeps the small, company-environment mentality alive. In fact, all three owners are very hands-on with each trailer built. The hands-on approach appears to have given Impact a leg up regarding its desire of premium quality, something Howe hasn’t seen from the competition. “Over the course of the past ten years, the industry has, unfortunately, been involved in a ‘race to the bottom’,” Howe says. “Cheaper components created a ‘how cheap can you price it’ mentality. The retail customer still expects automotive- type build quality and longevity, though. The industry needs to start going in that direction, focusing on building the best possible product.” “The industry is at a critical position going forward. Customers are becoming more educated and a newer, younger customer base is coming into our industry,” he explains. To shift industry trends to this new demographic, Impact Trailers will focus on “continued education, training and product innovation.” The company is conducting extensive road travel to provide dealers with the necessary training to sell its trailers. Howe’s focus on partnering with dealerships that have full- service facilities and a desire for customer retention, combined with Impact’s quality components and excellent workmanship, will lead to happier customers for many years. Together, he says, both trailer dealerships and this new company will make an impact in the industry. Howe admits the industry’s direction is at an important point right now, too. www.natda.org NATDA Magazine 31