Pub. 2 2021-2022 Issue 1

COVID-19 changed every aspect of our society, including the way dealerships operate and how consumers purchase vehicles. As states reopen and businesses return to normal operations, some key trends will continue even after the coronavirus is under control. Here is what you can expect to see post-pandemic and how to position your dealership for success in the long run.

Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, personal transportation ownership has remained incredibly important to consumers, which has resulted in increased demand for new vehicles. Paired with inventory concerns from plant closures and the current microchip shortage, pent-up demand for new cars and trucks is high.

We are proud to announce two new business partners of our association — RMG and CG Moneta.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit last year, the slow march by some dealerships to conduct more business digitally suddenly turned into a full-on sprint. Up to that point, the retail “disruptors” had driven speculation that showroom visits and face-to-face conversations would soon be replaced with keyboard clicks.

“If you love cars, this is where you want to work,” said Parts Specialist John R. Hudson of Oviedo. It must be true, because for 50 years John, affectionately known as “Dude”, has manned the parts department at Driver’s Mart of Winter Park, Holler-Classic Automotive Group’s used car superstore. When he started there in 1971, new cars cost less than $4,000 and Richard Nixon was president.

I was a car enthusiast for sure, but for whatever reason didn’t see myself being a long-term “car dealer” once I graduated from college. I am not even sure why this was the case, but I just felt a need to do something a little different from my father. At that time, I already had one brother very involved in the business, and I had grown up around the dealership performing odd jobs here and there. I still find it ironic that I was the one brother who wanted nothing to do with the car business. As it has turned out, I have been the MOST involved over the past 20 years, and now I run three dealerships in Central Florida, fairly hands-on while having an absolute blast!

Well, from banking to cars, many may not see a connection, but in reality, it was pretty much a linear path. My father, Edward McNamara, worked for GMAC — General Motors Acceptance Corp — for 45 years; I worked for them as well in college, doing telephone collections.

As someone who has dedicated his career to advocating on behalf of America’s franchised auto dealers, I’ve embraced the reality that one of my chief roles is to serve as Myth Buster-In-Chief.

Our officers and directors play a critical role in our success. The board consists of a diverse group of highly trained professionals. Each person on our leadership team brings many years of experience in the U.S. and worldwide. Their dedication ensures that Central Florida’s new and veteran automotive professionals have access to the region’s most comprehensive industry resources and educational opportunities.

There are many things for which I am grateful. Last year only served to augment my appreciation of how blessed we are. Around the world, we faced a pandemic never seen in our current history. During this crucial time, businesses were categorized as essential and non-essential. Employees were asked to work in vital roles necessary to supply the most important needs for the sick, dying and the living. At the center — and key to this altered lifestyle — were dealers and car manufacturers. Our industry had to unite to ensure we made it through.