Don Hall, President of the VADA, expressed his pursuit of keeping franchise retail automotive a centerpiece of the economy in a panel discussion at the VADA Convention on Monday. In a panel led by Jim Fitzpatrick of CBT News, Hall and counterpart Mike Charapp spoke about the dedication of both state and national dealer associations to ensuring elected officials understand the importance of the franchise system in serving the customer (have to admit…we like these guys).
However, both asked the key question of the day: “Are we listening to what customers want?” It is this mindset that Hall believes will give dealers across the country the edge in keeping the current system alive.
Disruptor. Charapp challenged the room to stop calling new OEMs and used car sellers “disruptors.” He stated that dealers have always been and should continue to be the disruptors while those other companies are simply the new entrants.