IRVING, Texas -- In an effort to expand its training options, the Dealer Services Group of Automatic Data Processing Inc. has joined with EFG Companies, a provider of F&I products, services and technologies, to bring EFG Companies' F&I training to more than 9,000 ADP Dealer Services' clients nationwide.

"We are pleased and honored that ADP has chosen to join with EFG Companies in this F&I training venture," said Thomas E. Larkin, president and CEO of EFG Companies. "The ADP-EFG training alliance provides dealership sales professionals with an unprecedented opportunity to accelerate store profitability."

The interactive F&I training is designed to grow a dealer's F&I and aftermarket penetration and profits. The training involves a rigorous five-day program that covers many department-specific topics. During training, F&I sales teams refine their techniques to sell even more extended warranties, credit insurance, road hazard coverage, sealants and theft protection, among other coverage options.

According to David Robertson, executive director of the Association of Finance & Insurance Professionals (AFIP), "I have found EFG's training program, both in philosophy and practice, to be representative of the best F&I development services available today. As a longstanding AFIP Industry Member, EFG has demonstrated a corporate commitment to compliant ethical and regulatory F&I practices."

EFG Companies' F&I Training Program has also been endorsed by a group of top dealer principals that includes the Ron Tonkin Auto Group, in Portland, Ore., which was awarded F&I Dealer of the Year in 2002 by F&I Management & Technology magazine.

Dealership sales persons who complete the course will receive certification from EFG Companies to complement their professional development portfolio.