Because we make custom fit, custom designed car floor mats for all makes and models, we at GG Bailey like to keep an eye on the automotive marketplace.

Now that we are a couple weeks into the new year, and with the first major auto show of the year underway in Detroit, now is a good time to look ahead and see what trends will be important in 2015. 

And remember, if you buy a new car this year or simply want to make some upgrades to your current ride, personalized car mats from GG Bailey add a touch of luxury and style to any vehicle. 

And whether you want to custom design your own set of floor mats with our Design Your Car Mats™ tool or pick one of the patterns from our luxury quality Car Couture™ line, we have something that will fit any style.

1. More online car shopping

Most people already get most of their vehicle information online, but in 2015 you’ll be able to complete an entire car purchase on the web. After getting a price, you will be able to finish the whole transaction online, including your financing and trade-in.

You can already get auto financing from online lenders, and dealerships will follow suit or partner up this year. Same goes for your trade-in, you can already go to AutoTrader and get a free online appraisal valid for 72 hours, and a service like this will be offered at the point of sale through local dealerships.

In some cases (if you don’t have a trade-in) you won’t even have to visit a dealership to pick-up your car. You’ll be able to sign everything on line and the car will be delivered to you.

2. Social media gains importance

Post purchase feedback will become much more social. After a sale, car dealers are currently rated through a CSI survey or WSI survey where feedback can be directly tied to their bonuses. In 2015, we will see more surveys and ratings like these  shift into social media to take advantage of the marketing element.

Dealers have always pushed for positive feedback, but when results are public, they may even try things like offering a free oil change in exchange for “liking” a dealership or posting survey results on your Facebook wall after you buy a car.

Have we mentioned GG Bailey is on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest?

3. More vehicle personalization

Now more than ever, shoppers demand customized and personalized options for just about everything, and that is true in the automotive market too. It used to be enough to be able to choose your vehicle's color and trim package, but nowadays car makers offer a wealth of options to choose from so that your vehicle is truly unique. 

Buyers can now pick from multiple engine and transmission options, wheel size and styles, trim packages, technology packages, sound systems, body add-ons, and more, and that's just from the dealership. The business of car customization is a huge one, and it looks to continue to grow in 2014. 

We're excited about this, of course, because at GGBailey.com we make custom-fit car floor mats that you design yourself. There are only four steps to design a set of personalized floor mats but thousands of possible design combinations. You pick from one of 10 carpet colors, choose one of 41 edging options, then pick an optional heelpad shape and color, and then personalize it.

You can add an embroidered name, or message of up to 10 characters (including spaces), or add a monogram or initials. We have two font styles available -- block text or script -- and 18 color choices. If you prefer an embroidered image instead of custom text or a personalized monogram, we also have 16 logos to choose from. Click here to see more details and examples for each step.