ST. LOUIS -

The National Independent Automobile Dealers Association has designated professional services firm CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP) as a bronze-level national corporate partner, and CLA says the partnership will help the organizations address tax and accounting issues most crucial to independent dealers.

CLA and NIADA can work together to reach important IRS and political influencers to benefit NIADA members’ best interests, CLA said, adding that the partnership “highlights CLA’s commitment to independent dealers and the used-vehicle industry.”

CLA says its dealership practice is one of the largest in the country and offers new- and used-vehicle industry knowledge and experience to its professionals.

The company said staying in touch with clients and businesses year-round is important in “providing relevant operational and strategic guidance.”

“We make it our business to know our clients and offer strategies to help them move forward,” Dave Wiggins, principal with CLA’s dealership team, said in a news release.

Wiggins continued, “Our strong affiliation with NIADA connects us immediately to member issues. That helps us commit resources and guides our thought leadership, not only to create opportunities for those in the dealership industry, but also to give NIADA members a voice on key issues.”

NIADA senior vice president of member services Scott Lilja said the CLA team understands NIADA members’ day-to-day concerns. The company, he added, “brings the experience, knowledge and perspective to help them do better.”

“Whether it is minimizing income taxes, meeting manufacturer requirements for facilities and working capital or planning for business succession, CLA is there to lead,” Lilja said.