McLEAN, Va. — The National Automobile Dealers Association is now providing a free hotline to offer a consulting service for dealers, general managers and managers, association officials announced Monday. The services include financial tips, business operations consulting and more.

"This new service will give dealers the information and tools they need to succeed in today's highly competitive market," explained William Bradshaw, NADA chairman. "A more efficient operation will improve customer satisfaction and retention, as well as financial growth for the long term."

The hotline is (888) 672-5140. When calling the hotline, dealers will receive individually tailored advice from either 20 Group consultants or Dealer Academy instructors, according to officials.

Some of the issues these NADA consultants will cover include:

— An evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of a dealership's business operations

— Assistance in developing an action plan that capitalizes on identified opportunities

— Implementation of improved business strategies

— A follow-up phone consultation with detailed financial analysis, if needed

For more information on the consulting hotline and NADA's other offerings, visit www.nada.org/lifeline.