The Equipment Dealers Assn. (EDA) announces that the survey questionnaire for its annual Dealer-Manufacturer Relations Survey has been distributed to equipment dealers. The survey, which enables equipment dealers throughout North America to rate the manufacturer lines they carry in key operational categories, will remain open through March 13, 2020.

EDA’s survey allows dealers to rate up to seven manufacturers they carry and collects data on their experience in 12 categories including product quality, availability and technical support; parts availability, quality and return policy; communication, warranty, marketing/advertising support and a separate rating for overall satisfaction.

Each year EDA asks manufacturers to assist with data collection by providing their dealer lists to the association — this year more than 30 companies participated! Although manufacturers assist in this way, the survey remains entirely anonymous with results collected by a third-party research firm and reported in aggregate to EDA without names and other identifying information attached.

“We are grateful to the manufacturers and regional equipment dealer associations for helping us promote the Dealer-Manufacturer Relations Survey,” says Joe Dykes, EDA’s VP of Industry Relations. “This is EDA’s most popular survey and we collect thousands of responses each year. The data is so valuable because under promise of anonymity, dealers feel comfortable providing honest ratings and comments. The resulting data helps their fellow dealers make informed decisions and gives manufacturers a brief assessment of strengths and weaknesses.”

Results of the survey will be made available in May 2020. EDA members will receive a complimentary report while non-members can purchase a copy for $395.00. Any dealer who has not already received a survey questionnaire may email surveys@equipmentdealer.org to request one.