Top 5 Marketing Strategies for Dealers to Increase Local Sales

The metal building industry is growing rapidly, but so is the competition. Dealers today must do more than rely on word-of-mouth or traditional advertising. To thrive in your local market, you need a strategic approach that builds visibility, earns trust, and drives high-quality leads.

At Metal Building Connect, we work closely with dealers nationwide and understand what truly moves the needle for local sales. Based on real industry trends, here are the top 5 marketing strategies for metal building dealers to grow their local business and stand out in 2026.

1. Optimize Google Business Profile for Local Visibility

Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is one of the most powerful tools for local sales. It determines how often you appear when customers search for terms like:

• metal garages near me

• carport dealers in my area

• steel building contractors

A well-optimized GBP improves your chances of ranking in the local map pack.

How to optimize your listing:

• Add accurate business information

• Upload real project photos and customer installations

• Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews

• Post weekly updates and announcements

• Use relevant categories like Metal Building Supplier or Garage Builder

Local buyers trust businesses that show consistent activity and great reviews.

2. Run Targeted Local Ads on Facebook and Google

Paid ads allow you to reach ready-to-buy customers in your area. When done right, local ad campaigns generate high-intent leads at a low cost.

Effective ad strategies include:

• Google Search Ads for keyword-driven buyers

• Facebook and Instagram ads targeting homeowners and small businesses

• Seasonal promotions (spring building, winter storage, end-of-year sales)

• Local-only campaigns to reduce wasted budget

Ads work especially well when promoting garage upgrades, carport sales, and limited-time discounts.

3. Showcase Real Installation Photos and Local Projects

Customers want proof—not promises. Visual evidence of your work builds trust faster than any sales pitch.

Showcase your work through:

• Before-and-after project photos

• Local customer testimonials

• Case studies of unique installations

• Short video walkthroughs

• Drone shots of completed metal buildings

Publish them on your website, social media, Google Business Profile, and ads. Buyers are far more likely to contact a dealer who displays real projects from their area.

4. Partner With Local Businesses and Communities

Partnerships help dealers gain referrals and establish authority in the community.

High-value local partnerships include:

• Hardware stores

• Home improvement centers

• Real estate agents

• Farm supply stores

• Local contractors and builders

• Community organizations

You can also participate in local fairs, events, or sponsorships to increase brand visibility. Local outreach builds trust—and trust leads to sales.

5. Offer Easy Financing to Increase Conversions

One of the biggest barriers to purchasing a metal building is upfront cost. Dealers who offer financing close significantly more deals.

Financing benefits:

• Customers can buy immediately instead of waiting

• Increases average order value

• Helps you compete against bigger brands

• Appeals to homeowners and small businesses alike

Promote financing options on your website, ads, and sales materials. Many buyers prefer flexible payments when purchasing carports, garages, and barns.

Bonus Strategy: Build a Strong Local SEO Presence

Local SEO helps your website rank organically in your city or service area.

Key areas to optimize:

• Location-based keywords (e.g., “metal garages in North Carolina”)

• Service-area landing pages

• Local backlinks

• Mobile-friendly content

• Fast-loading website pages

Organic traffic brings quality leads long after an ad campaign ends.

Conclusion

Increasing local sales as a metal building dealer requires the right mix of digital presence, community engagement, social proof, and customer-friendly offerings. By implementing these top 5 marketing strategies, you can build stronger visibility, attract better leads, and grow your dealer business consistently.

At Metal Building Connect, we support dealers with tools, leads, and marketing insights that help them scale faster in their local markets.