Dealership wins excellence award

Howie Neftin The Neftin Westlake Volkswagen and Volvo automotive dealerships in Thousand Oaks have received the J.D. Power and Associates Dealer of Excellence award.The award and certification program recognizes dealers who provide an outstanding customer experience during the new-vehicle sales process.

The Dealer of Excellence Certification Program, now in its 10th year, is independently administered by J.D. Power and Associates. It was initiated partly in response to consumer demand for standardized, credible and independent information regarding automotive dealership performance throughout the U.S.

Using survey data from recent customers, J.D. Power and Associates certifies only those dealers that meet or exceed pre-determined benchmark scores derived from its nationally syndicated Sales Satisfaction Index Study.

"Qualifying for the award requires the dedication of the dealership to building a truly outstanding sales experience for the customer," said Todd Wilson, director of automotive retail research and coordinator of the certification program.

"The high standards we set for this certification program are very challenging for automotive retailers to meet, so Neftin Westlake Volkswagen and Volvo have really distinguished themselves from the competition," said Wilson.

"Receiving this award is very gratifying to the entire Neftin organization," said Howie Neftin, co-owner of Neftin Westlake Volkswagen and Volvo.

"Our business has never been just about selling someone a Volvo or Volkswagen. It's about treating customers properly and building a longterm relationship," Neftin said. "All of our employees work very hard to earn the trust of our customers, and being recognized by J.D. Power and Associates shows we are doing it right.This award signals to our customers that Neftin is indeed a great place to do business."

Headquartered in Westlake Village, J.D. Power and Associates is a global marketing information services firm operating in key business sectors including market research, forecasting, consulting, training and customer satisfaction.

J.D. Power and Associates is a business unit of The McGraw-Hill Companies.