CLUTCH – more than a purse

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Kitsilano’s very own CLUTCH is getting tonnes of local press this week. Apparently, men are prohibited, so I’ll leave it to Patty of AskPatty.com to introduce Vancouver’s first women’s only car dealership:

Most women jump at the opportunity to buy something special that will make them feel like a million dollars; especially if that special something comes wrapped in a signature blue box or features luxurious monogrammed leather.  But a woman in a car dealership often feels like a lamb in a wolf’s den, even if the den is littered with sleek Porsches and cute VW Cabriolets. Enter Clutch.

Clutch is the brainchild of former beauty product developer Karen Jamison. Through her years of experience marketing specifically to women, Jamison realized that women’s needs weren’t being met, especially in traditionally hard-ball industries like the auto-industry.  Jamison approached president of top quality auto dealership auto/ONE, Mike Wood, with the idea of starting a female-focused dealership and Clutch was born.

One year later, Clutch has opened their newly renovated showroom on Vancouver’s west side. With its Italian-tiled floor, Paul Kane sofa, modern lighting, La Marzocco espresso machine and Michael Luco’s architecture-inspired flower arrangements, Clutch has more the look and feel of a high end fashion boutique than a car dealership.

Last modified: November 18, 2008

2 Responses to " CLUTCH – more than a purse "

  1. Mike Wood says:

    Very true — we are getting a lot of press, including this listing on kitsilano.ca — thanks! However, one small error: men are indeed welcome. Just don’t expect to be treated the same as any other car dealer — there’s no greeters, no closers, no business office. But you’re welcome to enjoy a cappucino on us, and take a look at some great cars while you’re there. Come one, come all…

  2. biff says:

    I think it sounds like a great idea and I’m glad to hear that guys are welcome. It would send the wrong message otherwise. Not that many guys would care at all and it would still be successful. Now, if a “no women allowed” concept opened it would get shut down inside of a week…but that’s another story.

    I hope the dealership does well, maybe it’s more humane approach will rub off on some of the other dealers…