Flashes May 2017

IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT
DILIGENT AND PROACTIVE RESPONSE TO CHANGE
As a wise Greek philosopher once said, “The only constant is change.” As spring slowly
changes to summer, I write on behalf of the NCADA Board of Directors to encourage all
dealers to continue to be engaged in diligently anticipating and preparing for the changes
in our industry and within our dealerships. At NCADA, we are excited about back-toback
years of record sales in North Carolina but, as an industry, we must remain vigilant in
watching and exploring new trends that could impact our profitability. As the chairman
of NCADA, I encourage you to join us at NCADA, participating in the following ways:
Stay vigilant and engaged in emerging trends.
Late last month, a group of dealers met to discuss developing events that could impact dealers nationwide. Dealers
discussed the advent of electric and autonomous vehicles, ride sharing programs, the factory’s role in online
selling, industry disruptors and challenges to the current dealership model. While the conversation was very
prospective or “futuristic,” it is critical to continue the conversations about events that could significantly alter
the current dealership model. Change is certainly going to occur; our objective is to be proactive in addressing
and responding to such change.
Join the Discussion at Amelia Island
NADA recently tasked Glenn Mercer, auto industry investment advisor and consultant, to prepare an analysis of
several challenges that will impact the auto industry in the 3-5 years ahead. Mercer’s 70-page report will be the
underpinning of his comments to the dealers on Tuesday, June 20th in Amelia Island. Other keynote presenters
include, Tim Russi of Ally Financial, and a representative from Google.
With countless recreational activities and offerings for dealers and their families, the Amelia Island convention is
sure to be a special family vacation and a great setting for insightful industry discussions. I hope that you can join
us.
Be Involved with your local Legislator
As part of the April meeting of the NCADA Board of Directors, the members had the opportunity to walk the halls
of the General Assembly to meet with their local elected officials. The impact of the meeting was incredible and
as a direct result, the NCADA franchise bill was put on a fast track for a vote in the NC House. Your input and
contact with your local officials makes a huge difference.
Congratulate and thank to Doug Wilkinson and Glenn Boyd
During the Amelia Island Convention, NCADA will recognize industry stalwarts Doug Wilkinson and Glenn
Boyd with the NCADA Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest honor bestowed on NCADA members. Both
Wilkinson and Boyd have been mainstays in our industry and their recognition will be one of the Amelia Island
highlights.
In closing, I thank each of you for contributing to the tradition of leadership that has developed within the North
Carolina auto industry over the past 80 years. This tradition of engagement makes the Tar Heel state, the “Greatest
State in the Nation for Franchise Dealers.” It is my pleasure and honor to be part of NCADA , and the industry
traditions that have been crafted by North Carolina dealers
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Mike Alford
2016-2017 NCADA Chairman