Reynolds and Reynolds will turn up the volume again in 2026.

The dealership software provider announced the third annual Automotive Amplifiers Contest, to be held during the Reynolds Retail Summit: Amplify, set for Aug. 11 in Carlsbad, Calif.

The competition recognizes the most innovative ideas and best practices shaping the future of automotive retail.

“Each year, I’m impressed by the creativity and ingenuity people across our industry bring to this contest,” Reynolds president Chris Walsh said. “Sharing best practices helps accelerate what’s possible in automotive retail. By recognizing and spotlighting the people who are innovating and leading with new ideas, the entire industry benefits.”

Contest entries will detail the best practice, the problem it solved and the impact it had on the dealership. Five finalists will be chosen to present their idea at the conference in a five-minute presentation followed by a three-minute Q&A with a panel of judges.

The deadline to enter is June 22, and finalists will be notified during the week of July 6. Best practices can be submitted by visiting the 2026 Automotive Amplifiers Contest page.

The ideas will be judged on the innovation and uniqueness of the best practice, the impact of the contestant’s idea on the dealership, and the relevance of the problem and solution to dealerships nationwide.

The finalists will receive VIP tickets to Amplify, including round-trip airfare, accommodations, meals, golf and full access to the event’s workshops and sessions. This year, two winners will receive a $5,000 donation to the charity of their choice, plus a trophy to display at their dealership.

Everyone who submits an idea will be featured in Amplify Automotive magazine and will have the opportunity to share their ideas and the impact they’ve had through the Reynolds Fuel newsletter and Connected podcast.

Past winners include Kamir Martínez Díaz of Pepe Abad Auto, Chris Ponte of Scranton Chevrolet, Justin Rash and James Dieli of Beau Townsend Ford Lincoln, and Jeremy Reardon of Westside Lexus.

“Innovation means creating value — for dealers, their teams, their customers and the communities they serve,” Walsh said. “The people who bring their best work to automotive retail are the ones creating that value, and we’re proud to recognize them.”