Located almost next to Impala, Daly Ford has been a part of Potchefstroom for more than 60 years, making it a pillar in the community. We sat down with Corné de Beer, one of the Sales Representatives at Ford to gain more insight into this well-established car dealership in our vibrant town.

History and Background

Daly Ford, a proud family business, has been a cornerstone of the community for more than six decades. As the second oldest family-run dealership in the country, with additional branches in Klerksdorp, Daly Ford has consistently demonstrated its commitment to Potchefstroom. "We are always visible, especially during school events and sponsorships, because these young people are the future of our country," says Corné.

Services Offered 

Beyond selling new and used vehicles, Ford Daly offers a comprehensive range of services. Regular staff training ensures top-notch customer service, and the dealership arranges financing and insurance for vehicle purchases. They also provide vehicle services and parts deliveries, and as a bit of an incentive for their loyal customer base, fleet customers can enjoy additional discounts, adding further value to their purchases.

Customer Experience 

Daly Ford prides itself on delivering top-class customer service. This dedication is evident in the positive feedback from their clients. Corné notes, "You can actually hear the smile on the other person’s face during a follow-up conversation."

Sales and Inventory 

The dealership’s most popular models currently are the Next Gen Ford Ranger and Ford Everest. Their inventory decisions are driven by a commitment to versatility in options, colours, and specifications to meet diverse customer needs. Daly Ford offers financing options through all major banks, with a close partnership with Ford Credit. Excitingly, their Truck Month in July promises substantial savings for both current and future customers. Keep an eye out for regular updates in our Car Talk segment for articles pertaining to Truck Month.

Community Involvement

Daly Ford engagement with the local community is extensive. The dealership supports numerous local events and charities, focusing on genuine community benefit rather than marketing. This commitment underscores their dedication to giving back to the community that has supported them for so many years.

Sustainability and Innovation

In response to the growing trend towards electric and hybrid vehicles, Daly Ford is one of six approved Ford dealerships nationally ready for electric vehicles. They are set to launch the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Ford Ranger electric models in 2025, with four electric models planned. Their sustainability efforts are commendable, including solar systems that make the dealership almost off the grid and refining oil from service cars into lubricants.

Customer Support

After-sales support at Daly Ford adheres to Ford SA standards, with a mobile unit for service and roadside assistance. They gather customer feedback through regular follow-up interactions, ensuring high levels of satisfaction and promptly addressing any concerns.

Staff and Training

Staff at Daly Ford undergo monthly training from Ford SA to stay updated on the latest automotive trends and technologies. The work culture is close-knit and respectful, with a management team that fosters a supportive and motivating environment. When asked about how the team stays motivated, Corné jokingly said “The motivation is easy, the employee of the month wins a trip to Potch Dam - all expenses for the employee’s own cost, of course.” But afterwards he said that real performance incentives are in place to reward and encourage excellence among employees.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Daly Ford is set to introduce electric cars and expand their servicing capabilities to include these new models. Long-term goals include adding new franchises to their business, continuing to grow and adapt to industry trends.

Personal Insights

For the management at Daly Ford, the most rewarding aspect of their work is the strong customer relationships and referrals from satisfied clients. They recognize that customer expectations have evolved, with customers now more informed and demanding, particularly in terms of technology. The dealership prides itself on meeting these high standards.

Challenges

One significant challenge Daly Ford has faced is load shedding, which impacted their workshop operations. However, the installation of a solar system has mitigated this issue, showcasing their resilience and commitment to continuous improvement.

Daly Ford remains a vital part of the community, dedicated to providing exceptional service, embracing innovation, and maintaining strong customer relationships. Be sure to visit their dealership in 66 Walter Sisulu, Potchefstroom.

Johané van Dyk - Potchefstroom

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Visit our Car Trader section by clicking on the image below to take a closer look Daly Ford's vehicles.