In an unprecedented move, many Japanese car dealerships shut their doors for an entire week during Golden Week, breaking the tradition of short holidays. According to Best Car Web, three main reasons drove the decision: plummeting foot traffic, a desire to give staff real rest, and shifting shopping habits.
In an unprecedented move, many Japanese car dealerships shut their doors for an entire week during Golden Week, breaking the tradition of short holidays. According to Best Car Web, three main reasons drove the decision: plummeting foot traffic, a desire to give staff real rest, and shifting shopping habits.
Why are dealers choosing long closures?
Dealerships once considered weekends and public holidays prime selling time, but that concept has changed radically. Today, buyers prefer to research online and visit showrooms on regular weekdays, making it commercially unviable to stay open during holidays.
What’s behind the customer drop?
The report notes that the number of customers entering showrooms during long holidays has fallen sharply, with most visitors now just browsing without intent to buy. This shift has pushed management to reassess the value of keeping doors open.
Employee rest takes priority
Amid labor shortages and work pressure, dealers aim to provide genuine breaks rather than fragmented days off. A full-week closure gives teams a chance to recharge and return with positive energy.
Could this happen in the Gulf?
In Saudi Arabia and the UAE, dealerships still open during Eid, but some brands are testing shorter hours. With online shopping growing, a similar shift may emerge in the near future.
Key facts about the phenomenon
- Customer decline during holidays: up to 60% compared to regular weekdays.
- Dealers implementing weekly closure in Japan: over 30%.
- Most affected segments: small and midsize cars.
- Alternative available: online booking and home delivery.
Frequently asked questions
Will Saudi dealerships close for a full week soon?
So far, no official plans exist, but some dealers are considering reducing Eid hours. The decision depends on customer turnout and the success of online sales channels.
How can I buy a car if the dealership is closed?
You can use dealership websites, most of which offer reservation and quote requests. Some even provide free home delivery after purchase.
Does a long closure save costs for the dealership?
Yes, it saves electricity and extra staff costs, but it may lose potential sales. Management weighs savings against profit to find the right balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Saudi dealerships close for a full week soon?
So far, no official plans exist, but some dealers are considering reducing Eid hours. The decision depends on customer turnout and the success of online sales channels.
How can I buy a car if the dealership is closed?
You can use dealership websites, most of which offer reservation and quote requests. Some even provide free home delivery after purchase.
Does a long closure save costs for the dealership?
Yes, it saves electricity and extra staff costs, but it may lose potential sales. Management weighs savings against profit to find the right balance.
Sources
- Best Car Web (JP) — もはや「開けても客が来ない」!? カーディーラーがGWに“1週間丸ごと”休む本当の理由
