AIADA; Optimism Abounds

Washington DC July 22, 2009 ;Last week, I spent time meeting with the American International Automobile Dealers Association’s (AIADA’s) executive committee. I enjoyed the opportunity to spend time picking the brains of my fellow colleagues who are some of the most influential and successful dealers in the country. But, as often happens when dealers get together, talk quickly turned to our businesses.

In general, the mood was optimistic. AIADA’s board members see dealers at the beginning of a gradual recovery. While we may never again reach the 16 million sales-per-year mark we once enjoyed, we remain optimistic about our future prospects. One thing is certain: AIADA will be there every step of the way as our industry finds its footing.

I am grateful to be part of an organization that has been THE voice for international nameplate dealers for nearly 40 years. In all that time, we have remained true to our mission: representing the issues of international dealers and manufacturers before the White House, Congress, and federal agencies. Our efficient size and powerful grassroots network allow us the ability to quickly adjust to shifting issues and markets. We will never be caught flat footed as we continue to use our influence in Washington to benefit dealers.

In our 39 years of existence, AIADA has seen it all. There have been times when we were urgently needed to beat back harmful legislation and even 100 percent tariffs on international nameplate vehicles. There have also been quiet times when business flourished and we were able to concentrate on more enduring issues, like the Death Tax. But never before have there been times like these, when dealers are under attack from so many angles.

At last week’s meeting, we board members knew one thing for certain: AIADA will be there, well beyond the next 12 months, acting as the dealer’s voice on everything from Cash for Clunkers, to healthcare “reform,” to Card Check unionization. Our agility allows us the freedom to handle many issues at once, and we will continue to do so until dealers are free to grow their businesses and help heal our economy. I also want to acknowledge the tremendous partnership we have with NADA and their efforts on behalf of the entire dealer body.

Finally, it is important to note that this is a landmark week for dealers around the country. Sometime before midnight on Friday the 24^th the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will finalize its Cash for Clunkers rules. Once these rules are established, dealers can begin offering vouchers to consumers who want to trade in a clunker.

By now, you should have received a letter in the mail from NHTSA explaining how you can register to participate in the program. If you have any questions about the registration process, please click here�or call 1-800-GO-AIADA. AIADA will continue to keep our members informed as the program takes shape.

�Russ Darrow, AIADA Chairman