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DEARBORN, Mich. — FordDirect has teamed up with OneCommand to deliver a database marketing service specifically tailored and built for the automaker's dealer body. 

This new tool, Targeted Marketing, can help lead dealers to increased sales and service business by helping to foster, improve and maintain relationships with customers.

Targeted Marketing is an automated service that helps Ford dealers send out "timely, targeted and professional" messages to consumers related to sales, service and owner loyalty.

"Targeted Marketing is driving phenomenal results for dealers. On average, dealers utilizing this service are generating 10 additional vehicle sales while also earning $47,364 in service revenue per month, with an average repair order of $220," explained Leo Hillock, office of the chief executive and executive vice president of FordDirect.

"That's why we're so excited to offer Targeted Marketing to all Ford, Lincoln and Mercury dealers at a significantly discounted price," Hillock added.

Officials noted that the automaker's dealers can access the program for $599 per month. They said it is a 40 percent to 60 percent discount compared to what similar services cost.

OneCommand was chosen by FordDirect as the tool's technology provider. The technological features in Targeted Marketing include voice messaging, e-mail, personal Web pages for consumers, as well as data appends.

"We are very pleased to customize Targeted Marketing for the nation's Ford, Lincoln and Mercury dealers," shared Marvin Grimm, OneCommand's executive vice president.

"Our program has proven successful in driving revenue for dealers and, perhaps most importantly in the current economy, reducing marketing expenses," Grimm continued. "Because it is fully automated — whether it is a happy birthday message for a valued customer, a service appointment reminder for an owner or a national sales event message for a prospect — Targeted Marketing's communications reach the right customer, at the right time and through the right channel, without any extra effort or increased resource on the part of the dealership staff."

One dealership, in particular, offered its feedback on how the tool has helped its store.

"Targeted Marketing helps us showcase our dealership specials to our customers on a monthly basis and increase profit by sending target-specific e-mails," shared Michael Mamic, general manager at Santa Margarita Ford in Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif.

"In these challenging marketing conditions, we are always looking for unique ways to build loyalty and increase traffic, and Targeted Marketing has helped us do that," Mamic continued.