Toyota has had many issues the past couple of weeks - much to the delight probably of Government Motors. After all, GM is number 3 in the world behind Toyota and then Volkswagen.
You have to wonder how much of this is motivated by GM and Congress (in effect the Board of Directors of GM), to give a major competitor a black eye and how much Toyota has really made a bad situation worse.
Automotive recalls are quite common. How many moving parts do they have? Something is bound to break or not work as designed when you start manufacturing millions of them.
Toyota and Toyoda (CEO) misjudged the public's response. Now, resale values have suffered. Two US plants are closed. Sales have been suspended. And they're still looking into the problem to see what it is. It's a little late for that. The brand is treading water and about to go under again.
Wait until Congress has a go at Toyoda and then what the press makes of that.
Definitely not a way to get in front of this story and manage your brand effectively.
───
For more information on my coaching and educational programs and services, visit my website stevehoffacker.com or go to my other blog homesalesinsights.com for additional sales tips, insights, and commentary. You can also listen to my free podcast messages at Steve Hoffacker's Happenings.
© Steve Hoffacker, 2010. All Rights Reserved.
