Wednesday, 22 July 2009 11:11
Last week, I spent three days with the American International Automobile Dealers Association's (AIADA's) executive committee in Kohler, Washington. It was an opportunity for me to not just show off my home state, but also to pick the brains of some of the most influential and successful dealers in the country.
Our July meeting is held annually so that AIADA's leadership can plot out the association's next 12 months, and to discuss what we have seen over the past year. But, as often happens when dealers get together, talk quickly turned to our businesses.
In general, the mood was optimistic. AIADA's board members see dealers at the beginning of a gradual recovery. While we may never again reach the 16 million sales-per-year mark we once enjoyed, the recent restructuring of our industry could ultimately benefit dealers. One thing is certain: AIADA will be there every step of the way as our industry finds its footing.
I am grateful to be part of an organization that has been THE voice for international nameplate dealers for nearly 40 years. In all that time, we have remained true to our mission: representing the issues of international dealers and manufacturers before the White House, Congress, and federal agencies. Our efficient size and powerful grassroots network allow us the ability to quickly adjust to shifting issues and markets. We will never be caught flat footed as we continue to use our influence in Washington to benefit dealers.
In our 39 years of existence, AIADA has seen it all. There have been times when we were urgently needed to beat back harmful legislation and even 100 percent tariffs on international nameplate vehicles. There have also been quiet times, when business flourished, and we were able to concentrate on more enduring issues, like the Death Tax. But never before have there been times like these, when dealers are under attack from so many angles.
At last week's meeting, we board members knew one thing for certain: AIADA will be there, well beyond the next 12 months, acting as the dealer's voice on everything from Cash for Clunkers, to healthcare "reform," to Card Check unionization. Our agility allows us the freedom to handle many issues at once, and we will continue to do so until dealers are free to grow their businesses and help heal our economy.
Finally, it is important to note that this is a landmark week for dealers around the country. Sometime before midnight on Friday the 24th the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will finalize its Cash for Clunkers rules. Once these rules are established, dealers can safely begin offering vouchers to consumers who want to trade in a clunker.
By now, you should have received a letter in the mail from NHTSA explain how you can register to participate in the program. If you have any questions about the registration process, please visit http://www.cars.gov/index.php/dealer/ or call 1-800-GO-AIADA. AIADA will continue to keep our members informed as the program takes shape.
Russ Darrow, AIADA Chairman
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