NADA University is rolling out a new annual study that replaces the biennial NADA Compensation Study and offers an enhanced look into dealership workforce trends. The first NADA Dealership Workforce Study is slated to be released this summer and include data from 2011. Explaining how it will be different from the NADA Compensation Study, officials […] [Read More]

When it comes to value retention, the brand expected to command the strongest residuals three years down the road is Mini, according to the latest Industry Report from ALG. Looking at the 2012 model-year residual outlook in the March/April edition of ALG’s analysis, Mini’s 36-month residual value was projected at 52.5 percent. [Read More]

Never let it be said that Detroit automakers and their friends in Congress don’t care about the environment. I’ve never see any group more dedicated to recycling — at least when it comes to old arguments. There is a limited number of anti-trade, anti-“import” positions out there. Even when one is shot full of holes, […] [Read More]

For those looking to nominate an independent dealer to receive special recognition from their peers for their efforts in the community, time is running out. The nomination period for the 2012 National Independent Automobile Dealers Association//Manheim Community Service Award ends April 1, which is less than two weeks away. Each year the program spotlights a […] [Read More]

A seasonally adjusted annualized rate of new-vehicle sales that climbed about 12 percent in January likely bodes well for the future in terms of alleviating dealers used-supply concerns. But the 14.2 million new-vehicle SAAR also affects residuals down the road, according to ALG. The impact, however, will likely be rather modest, the firm suggests. [Read More]

The used prices of fuel-efficient vehicles may soar more than 20 percent in coming months, according to Kelley Blue Book, and dealers should prepare themselves. With a price spike likely imminent within the next 30 to 60 days, KBB is advising dealers to snatch these fuel-friendly used cars “sooner rather than later.” Take what happened […] [Read More]

Spotlighting its strongest dealership performances of 2011, Audi announced its Magna Society award winners on Monday while also doling out special recognition to 10 dealerships receiving honors as Audi Elite Magna Society winners. The 2011 Magna Society recognition was given to 106 dealerships that showed strong customer service, as well as strong overall business performance. […] [Read More]

As the industry picks up and many are forecasting sales to climb this year, Foresight Research revealed the results from its first 2012 Automotive Marketing Communications Study. And it seems car shoppers are looking for different “messages” from dealers and OEMs this time around. The time when touting a few incentives and coming out with […] [Read More]

Consolidated Asset Recovery Systems launched a new open-source, freeware version of its IBEAM Web portal to the agent and lender community. The company highlighted this new version of IBEAM — available after April 15 — will be specific to repossession and invoice management, providing all the capabilities of asset tracking, real-time monitoring of updates, online […] [Read More]

To meet popular demand from its members, the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association is forming a 20 Group Program, the association announced last week. Like many of its peer programs, the NIADA 20 Group Program will aim to bring together dealers (in this case, independent stores) for idea and best-practice sharing, as well as data […] [Read More]