Preserving value and foresighted: Sustainable Strategies in the Classic Market
Article from Philipp Kranich
published in Classic Trader
The classic car business is no longer just about emotions and aesthetics — it is increasingly about value preservation, sustainability, and strategic customer retention. Workshops and dealers are now required to advise customers proactively and show them concrete ways to secure the long-term value of their vehicles.
High-Quality and Conscious Restoration
A key topic here is high-quality restoration. Those who not only repair but consciously restore — using original parts, documented work, and sustainable resource use — create true added value.
The restoration business is becoming increasingly international: dealers can strategically collaborate with specialized partner companies in countries with lower labor costs — such as the Czech Republic or Hungary — to offer high quality at attractive prices. This creates new margin models and access to international customer groups.
Sustainable spare parts strategies also hold potential: those who specialize in refurbishing rare components or sourcing certified used parts not only position themselves as experts but also tap into a lucrative additional business.
History and Storage
An often underestimated lever is the documentation of vehicle history. Workshops that systematically digitize and prepare maintenance, service, and ownership histories can offer this service as a paid module — providing real added value for customers and future buyers.
Particularly in autumn, another area comes into focus: professional storage. This not only protects the vehicle but also serves as an ideal tool for sustainable customer retention.
Those who combine storage options with additional services such as battery maintenance or care packages generate continuous revenue even outside the driving months.
Sustainability in the classic car sector is not only ecologically but also economically attractive.
Those who act strategically open up stable revenue streams, build customer trust — and position themselves as a future-proof partner in the high-end automotive market.
About the author
Philipp Kranich is a Senior Manager at rpc – The Retail Performance Company. He advises and supports companies in the conception, development, and implementation of new, innovative business formats as well as transformation processes. In the automotive sector, he has extensive expertise with a focus on sales and aftersales.
