Demonstrating what executives involved are calling leadership and commitment to independent dealers and buy-here, pay-here operators, Cox Automotive expanded its partnership with the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association on Thursday through NIADA’s National Corporate Partner program.

Seven Cox Automotive brands — including for the first time, Manheim— have been designated as National Corporate Partners for 2016. Six of the brands are Diamond-level NCPs, the highest partnership level.

“NIADA is beyond thrilled about expanding our relationship with Cox Automotive and strengthening our ongoing efforts to better serve the independent automotive industry through the several Cox Automotive brands," NIADA chief executive officer Steve Jordan said.

“NIADA dealers and members are committed to providing a better buying experience for their customers and offering top-tier service, much like the Cox Automotive philosophy,” Jordan continued. “This evolving partnership gives our members and the industry strategic access to the world-class suite of Cox Automotive products, services and brands and will allow our dealers to continue to lead their communities as best-in-class business operators. And that is really exciting."

Autotrader, NextGear Capital and vAuto renewed as Diamond-level partners and have been joined by new Diamond partners Manheim, Alliance Inspection Management and Dealertrack.

In addition, GO Financial has teamed with NIADA for the first time as a Bronze-level NCP.

“Independent dealers represent the backbone of the used vehicle industry," Manheim North America president Janet Barnard said.

“Through this partnership, Cox Automotive will broaden its support of independent dealers through training, education and consulting services, helping to further their business success,” Barnard went on to say.