Challenge
Before adopting Keycafe, Garage Maro tried to track and identify keys using an old-fashioned system based on paper key tags attached to keys. The tags could tear, get wet, or detach in someone’s pocket. When a tag came off, the team often had to spend time figuring out which key belonged to which vehicle.
According to After-Sales employee David Doise, the biggest issue was simple: keys kept going missing. “We mainly wanted to make sure we didn’t lose as many keys as we used to. That takes up a lot of time, and it’s just not practical.”
This created delays across the dealership, especially when a vehicle needed to be moved quickly or a technician needed a key to continue work.
Pain Points
- Lost Keys: Keys regularly disappeared during daily operations
- Wasted Time: Staff lost time searching for missing keys
- No Clear Tracking: There was no reliable way to know who last had a key
- Labeling Problems: Paper tags tore off easily, causing mix-ups
Solution
Garage Maro installed a Keycafe system to replace paper tags with NFC fobs and the Keycafe app that made every key easy to identify and track. When a new car arrives, the team receives the keys, separates them to keep a spare on hand, and attaches a Keycafe fob before placing the key into the Keycafe SmartBox. Each key is labeled in the Keycafe app using the VIN, license plate, or internal vehicle number, so it can always be matched to the right car.
Once keys are stored, the team can instantly locate them in the system and see who last checked a key out. This makes it easier to track vehicles, avoid confusion, and follow up quickly when a key isn’t where it should be.
Garage Maro’s Implementation
- Digital Fleet Overview: All keys are visible in one dashboard
- Vehicle-Based Labels: Keys are labeled in the Keycafe system using the VIN or license plate to prevent mix-ups
- Key History Tracking: Staff can instantly see who last used a key
- Team-Wide Access: Both technicians and salespeople use the system daily
“The biggest advantage we have with Keycafe is that we basically have a digital overview of our fleet. We can also very easily see who had the key last.”
Result
Garage Maro saw improvements quickly after installing Keycafe. Since making the switch, the team reports they have not lost any keys, and employees no longer waste time searching for them throughout the day. Staff can now locate keys instantly in the Keycafe system, see who last checked them out, and follow up quickly when something isn’t where it should be.
Key handling also became more consistent across the dealership. With technicians and salespeople using the same system, the process is clearer and more predictable, reducing the mix-ups that used to come from paper tags and misplaced keys.
Garage Maro also highlighted Keycafe’s support as a positive part of the experience, helping ensure a smooth onboarding and rollout.
The Outcome
- No Lost Keys: The team has not lost any keys since switching to Keycafe
- Less Time Wasted: Staff no longer spend time searching for missing keys
- Clear Accountability: The system shows who last checked out each key
- Smoother Daily Workflow: Key handling is organized and consistent across the dealership
- Support When Needed: The team can get help quickly when questions come up
