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FordDirect and Ford Motor Company Name Ford, Lincoln Internet Dealers of the Year

Given annually at the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Convention and Exposition, the Ford and Lincoln Internet Dealer of the Year awards honor top dealerships for achievement in Internet sales. There are two categories: Internet Dealer of the Year and eCommerce Elite New Vehicle Sales.

Crest Ford Flat Rock, is the Ford Internet Dealer of the Year and Hines Park Lincoln is the Lincoln Internet Dealer of the Year for 2012. Internet Dealers of the Year are determined by a formula that ranks total sales for 2011 as well as dealer close rates for the year.

Galpin Motors and Hines Park Lincoln were named eCommerce Elite winners. eCommerce Elite winners are determined by who sold the most new vehicles from Ford and FordDirect Internet leads in 2011.

As online sales and digital marketing become essential components of automotive dealers' consumer engagement strategy, FMC and FordDirect have placed a greater emphasis on recognizing those who excel through these channels.

"Dealers who embrace digital technology and set up a strong process in their Internet department will increase sales and profitability," said Stacey Coopes, chief executive officer, FordDirect. "Dealers sold more than 340,000 vehicles last year through Ford and FordDirect Internet referrals at an average cost-per-vehicle sold of under $160."

Crest Ford Flat Rock has focused their Internet efforts and taken home the top prize this year.

"We take pride in our Internet marketing efforts," said Mark Coughanour, General Manager, Crest Ford Flat Rock. "We understand the importance of digital marketing integration in our sales process. As digital technology becomes increasingly valuable to our business, we are excited to see its impact grow."

For the third year in a row, Hines Park Lincoln has been named an Internet Dealer of the Year. Located in Plymouth, Mich., Hines Park Lincoln has been serving the Detroit area for more than 40 years.

"We are honored to be named the Lincoln Internet Dealer of the Year and the eCommerce Elite winner," said Ryan Kolb, Hines Park Lincoln. "We have been a long-term proponent of digital marketing. Being at the forefront of this emerging trend has boosted our profitability."

About FordDirect

FordDirect (forddirect.com/dealercenter) is a joint venture between Ford Motor Company and its franchised dealers to create a comprehensive Web presence for dealers and provide digital marketing services that help dealers sell more cars and trucks. FordDirect provides dealers new and pre-owned marketing services, call tracking, lead management solutions, dealer Websites, search optimization and marketing, database marketing, marketing services for regional dealer advertising groups and other digital services. FordDirect is headquartered in Dearborn, Mich.

SOURCE FordDirect