ATLANTA – With an increasing number of independent auctions joining the www.OVE.com family, three independents have taken the next step and earned “Signature Provider” status. Rea Brothers’ MidSouth Auto Auction and two of BSC America’s auctions, BelAir Auto Auction and Tallahassee Auto Auction, have become the first independent auctions to complete the steps necessary to become OVE.com Signature Providers.

In addition, each of Manheim’s U.S. operating locations has achieved Signature Provider status with OVE.com. The elective OVE.com Signature Provider program was developed in response to both dealer customer and national seller demand for a way to identify auctions that best support the online buying and selling experience.

In order to display the Signature Provider seal, an auction must meet certain criteria and provide enhanced online customer benefits, including: participation in OVE.com’s National BuyBack Policy, transportation support, vehicle listing verification, designated “OVE Sold” parking areas, and enhanced after-hours transaction support. Online staffing models at Signature Provider locations must also be consistent, and online employees must meet strict training requirements.

While Rea Brothers, BelAir, and Tallahassee are the first independents to achieve Signature Provider status, OVE.com Director of Independent Auction Relations Glenn O’Leary said he expects other independent auctions to quickly join the Signature Provider ranks. Currently, 45 independent auctions have partnered with OVE.com to become Facilitation Service Providers, and additional auctions are joining each month.

OVE.com is an online wholesale vehicle marketplace where physical auctions play a pivotal role in the success of its business by acting as Facilitation Service Providers. As Facilitation Service Providers, independent auctions guarantee title, funds, and arbitration (if needed) for OVE.com’s online wholesale vehicle transactions, and can also provide added services to dealers such as post-sale inspections, paintless dent repair, and other reconditioning.

OVE.com has enjoyed tremendous growth in 2008; it is on track to achieve 100 percent year-over-year growth from 2007. Further, the site has increased its volume from 10,000 cars offered daily to more than 25,000 and now lists inventory from more than 55 national consignors (up from 35 just a year ago).

Independent auctions seeking more information on partnering with OVE.com or on becoming a Signature Provider can contact O’Leary at (678)645-2253 or e-mail glenn.oleary@ove.com.