DaimlerChrysler Corp. has launched a nationwide Internet-based marketplace, called Five Star Market Center, that gives Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealers the opportunity to purchase products and commodities at volume discount prices.
After a successful pilot program in Indianapolis that began in September 1999, the Five Star Market Center is now being offered to dealers nationwide. The program was introduced to dealers this week in Orlando at the company’s annual dealer convention.
Five Star Market Center, when fully operational, has the potential to save the Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep dealer body as a whole as much as a billion dollars a year, or about $500 per vehicle in fixed business costs.
The Five Star Market Center is initially being launched with six strategic partners: Aramark for uniform services, MCI WorldCom for telecom services, Shell, Speedway/SuperAmerica and Texaco for fuel, Staples for office supplies, and UPS for package delivery services.
Five Star Market Center will be available to Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealers beginning September 2000.