21/09/2022
In the dynamic and often complex world of automotive sales, dealerships are constantly seeking innovative solutions to enhance their performance, maximise profitability, and deliver exceptional customer experiences. This is where companies like JM&A Group step in, offering a comprehensive suite of products and services designed to support and elevate automotive retailers. Established in 1978, JM&A Group has built a formidable reputation as a trusted partner for nearly 4,000 automotive dealerships across the United States, representing virtually every make and model on the road. Their commitment lies in improving dealership performance through a strategic blend of Finance & Insurance (F&I) products, specialised dealership training, and expert consulting services.
Understanding the JM&A Group Ecosystem
At its core, JM&A Group is a collective of four distinct companies, each contributing unique expertise to the automotive aftermarket. This integrated approach allows them to offer a holistic service that addresses the multifaceted needs of modern dealerships. Their product and service portfolio is extensive, catering to both new and used vehicle sales operations. Key offerings include:
- New and Used Vehicle Protection Plans: These plans provide customers with peace of mind by covering unexpected mechanical repairs, enhancing the value proposition of a vehicle sale.
- Used Vehicle Certification Programs: For pre-owned vehicles, certification programs lend an air of quality and reliability, building consumer confidence and potentially commanding higher resale values.
- Prepaid Maintenance Plans: Encouraging customer loyalty and repeat business, these plans ensure vehicles are serviced regularly, keeping them in optimal condition.
- Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP) Programs: GAP insurance is crucial for protecting buyers against the risk of being owed more on their car loan than the car is worth in the event of a total loss.
- F&I Training: Comprehensive training for sales, service departments, and used car operations is a cornerstone of JM&A Group's offering, equipping dealership staff with the skills to effectively present and sell F&I products.
- Consulting Services: Beyond products, JM&A Group provides expert advice and strategic guidance to help dealerships streamline operations, improve customer satisfaction, and drive revenue growth.
Driving Dealership Success: The JM&A Advantage
The overarching goal of JM&A Group is to equip its clients with the tools and knowledge necessary to achieve financial stability and enhance their retail operations. By offering high-quality products and robust systems, they empower dealerships to sell more vehicles and, crucially, to maximise profitability not only from the initial vehicle sale but also from the valuable after-sale opportunities. The sheer scale of their operation is impressive; with nearly 14.9 million vehicle-related service and maintenance contracts in force in 2023 and over 66 million contracts sold since their inception, it's estimated that approximately one in every ten vehicles in the U.S. benefits from a JM&A Group product. This widespread adoption is a testament to the value and trust they have cultivated within the industry.
A Closer Look at JM&A Group's Subsidiary Companies
The strength of JM&A Group lies in the specialised capabilities of its subsidiary companies:
Jim Moran & Associates, Inc. (JM&A)
As the flagship entity, Jim Moran & Associates, Inc. is directly responsible for delivering the core F&I products, dealership training, and consulting services that define the JM&A Group's mission. They are the driving force behind improving dealership performance through strategic financial and insurance solutions.
Fidelity Warranty Services, Inc. (FWS)
Established in the same year as the group's inception, 1978, Fidelity Warranty Services is a prominent provider of extended service and pre-paid maintenance contracts. FWS boasts a significant market presence, being the largest provider of service contracts in Florida and a major player nationally. Their popular Toyota Certified program, which covers vehicles at Toyota dealerships in the Southeast, highlights their ability to tailor solutions for specific manufacturer needs.
Fidelity Insurance Agency, Inc. (FIA)
Founded in 1988, Fidelity Insurance Agency operates as an independent agency dedicated to offering essential insurance products and risk management services specifically for retail automotive dealers. Their comprehensive offerings include floorplan insurance, vehicle damage protection, and complete garage liability packages. Furthermore, FIA extends its support to dealership associates by providing employee benefit products, ranging from group medical insurance to 401(k) retirement plans, demonstrating a commitment to the overall well-being of dealership staff.
Courtesy Insurance Company (CIC)
Courtesy Insurance Company specialises in property and casualty insurance, focusing on commercial risk products for retail automotive dealers. CIC's key products are designed to mitigate specific risks faced by dealerships. Contractual Liability Insurance covers obligations assumed under vehicle service contracts, while Total Loss Protection contracts safeguard dealers against risks related to Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP) waivers. They also offer Secure Etch, a valuable theft deterrent product. CIC's strong financial standing is underscored by its A (Excellent) financial strength rating from the A.M. Best Company, maintained annually since 2006, and its licensing in 49 states and Puerto Rico.
National Truck Protection Co. Inc.
Catering to a specialised sector, National Truck Protection is a leading provider of vehicle service contracts within the commercial truck industry. They serve a diverse clientele across various channels, including Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), independent dealer groups, aftermarket truck resellers, agencies, and even directly to consumers throughout the U.S. and Canada. Their expertise in the heavy-duty vehicle segment makes them a crucial partner for businesses operating commercial fleets.
Affiliated with JM&A Group
JM&A Group also maintains affiliations with companies that expand its reach and service capabilities:
Century Warranty Services, Inc.
Established in 2002, Century Warranty Services focuses on developing alternative distribution channels for its products. This includes leveraging dealer miss strategies, remarketing, and building relationships with third-party providers, thereby broadening access to their offerings beyond traditional dealership sales.
Key Statistics and Accomplishments
The success of JM&A Group is quantifiable through several key metrics:
| Metric | 2023 / Since Inception |
|---|---|
| Established | 1978 |
| President | Scott Gunnell |
| Associates | 880 |
| Contracts in Force (2023) | Nearly 14.9 million |
| Contracts Sold (Since Inception) | More than 66 million |
| Nationwide Dealers Offering JM&A Products (2023) | 4,100 |
| Dealership Associates Trained (2023) | 11,000 |
| Reserves (2023) | $3.1 billion |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What types of vehicles does JM&A Group cover?
JM&A Group's products and services are designed to cover virtually all makes and models of new and used vehicles, including commercial trucks through National Truck Protection.
Q2: How does JM&A Group help dealerships increase profitability?
JM&A Group provides F&I products that generate additional revenue streams, offers training to improve sales effectiveness, and delivers consulting services to optimise operations, all contributing to increased profitability.
Q3: What is the significance of the JM&A Group's financial strength rating?
The A (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best Company for Courtesy Insurance Company signifies a strong capacity to meet financial obligations, providing confidence to dealerships and consumers alike in the stability of their products.
Q4: Does JM&A Group offer employee benefits for dealership staff?
Yes, Fidelity Insurance Agency (FIA) offers associate benefit products, including group medical insurance and 401(k) retirement plans, supporting the welfare of dealership employees.
Q5: What is the primary focus of JM&A Group's training programs?
The training programs are focused on enhancing the skills of dealership staff in sales, service departments, and used car operations, with a particular emphasis on the effective presentation and sale of F&I products.
In conclusion, JM&A Group stands as a pillar of support for the automotive industry, offering a comprehensive and integrated approach to dealership performance enhancement. Their commitment to providing robust F&I products, cutting-edge training, and expert consulting, backed by a strong financial foundation and a diverse portfolio of specialised services, makes them an indispensable partner for any automotive dealership aiming for sustained success in today's competitive market. Their long-standing history and extensive market penetration underscore their deep understanding of the industry and their unwavering dedication to the prosperity of their clients.
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