June 21, 2014

LEAWOOD, KS (June 21, 2014) – CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts announced the winners of its top marketing awards at the CARSTAR National Conference in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The marketing awards recognize the store owners and individuals that deliver the marketing programs with the most impact throughout the year. In addition, CARSTAR announced the Spirit Award for the top corporate team performer.

CARSTAR’s David James, vice president of Marketing, honored each winner on stage and presented their awards during the annual banquet. This year’s award winners included:

Marketer of the Year -- Individual

The Marketer of the Year award for an individual store was awarded to Jeremiah Graham, owner of Jeremiah’s CARSTAR Collision and Painting in Oklahoma City, OK. Graham was selected for the honor because of his aggressive brand awareness program. In 2013, Jeremiah’s invested heavily in marketingthe shop. Their mobile app weather sponsorship alone generated 2,500 web visits in 90 days. They also had a television campaign that had a 60 percent reach and excellent frequency. They had a direct mail piece that reached more than 8,000 households, as well. In addition, the facility has excellent branding, and they are involved in sponsoring high school sports and charity golf tournaments. Jeremiah’s also hosted a number of I-CAR classes.

Marketer of the Year – Business Group

The top Marketer of the Year award for a business group went to the Cincinnati Business Group in Cincinnati, OH. Comprised of 12 stores, the group earned the honor through their comprehensive marketing plan that resulted in an eight percent increase in sales from 2012 to 2013, and a CARSTAR Brand Awareness Level of 77 percent with consumers. The group has been consistent over the years in their marketing efforts. They invest in TV and radio, as well as the Internet through search engine optimization and pay per click campaigns. They are also involved in major sports sponsorships with the Cincinnati Bengals and Reds, along with area college teams. They support the community through charity fundraisers and golf tournaments. Plus, they invest in the industry by marketing to agents through ACE and live classes.

Spirit of CARSTAR Award

Each year, CARSTAR recognizes the member of the CARSTAR corporate team who demonstrates an exceptional commitment to serving CARSTAR store owners, building the CARSTAR brand and improving the organization’s performance. This year, the CARSTAR Spirit award goes to Jesamyn Erdman, marketing specialist. She was selected for her great attitude, outlook and desire to make a difference throughout CARSTAR.