As we gear up for the fifth annual ASOTU Con, May 12–14, we’re sitting down with the founders to explore their vision, the buzz surrounding this year’s event, and what attendees can expect from the incredible lineup. Joining us on today’s CBT Now episode are Paul Daly, Founder and CEO, and Kyle Mountsier, Partner and COO of ASOTU.
With attendance expected to grow from 600 to more than 800 industry professionals, the pair reflects on the continued momentum for the community-driven automotive conference.
According to the duo, the event was designed to offer a more relational and less transactional alternative to traditional industry gatherings. The conference emphasizes meaningful conversations, practical insights, and a collaborative environment where attendees can engage more openly with peers and partners.
Organizers say the event’s structure and culture have contributed to steady year-over-year growth. ASOTU Con is positioned as an inclusive space for anyone in the automotive ecosystem, with a strong focus on fostering connections that extend beyond the event itself. Repeat attendance has become a defining characteristic, supported by year-round engagement through ASOTU’s content and community initiatives.
This year’s conference will feature a broad range of programming designed to reflect the full scope of dealership operations. Sessions will cover key areas including sales, fixed operations, F&I, marketing, technology, and data. The event will also include a main stage, three breakout studios, and a full-time podcast stage located on the trade show floor. Attendees are encouraged to explore sessions outside their day-to-day roles to gain a more comprehensive understanding of how different departments intersect.
The 2026 theme, “Year of the Human,” will focus on aligning people, processes, and technology to better serve both customers and employees. Organizers say the theme reflects the need for stronger collaboration across dealership functions as the industry continues to evolve.
“It’s not exclusionary, but it's an inclusive… if you identify as being someone in the automotive industry, then this is a place for you.” – Kyle Mountsier
Ahead of the main event, ASOTU Con will host an AI Summit designed to provide deeper technical insight into artificial intelligence applications in automotive retail. The summit will feature presentations from companies integrating AI into their operations, along with sessions focused on prompt engineering and emerging workflows. The goal is to help operators better understand and apply new technologies within their businesses.
“One of the nice things about ASOTU Con is we're kind of able to cultivate an environment where we can have these micro communities come and have some relationship with one another and then spread.”- Paul Daly
The speaker lineup will include a mix of returning and new voices from across the industry, covering topics such as leadership, innovation, talent development, and digital transformation. Additional speakers are expected to be added leading up to the event.
ASOTU Con will again take place in a multi-use venue that combines lodging, entertainment, and conference space, keeping attendees centralized throughout the event. The setting is designed to enhance engagement and provide a more immersive experience than traditional convention centers.
The event will also highlight the growing influence of content creators and automotive influencers. Dedicated programming and networking opportunities will bring together this emerging segment, which organizers view as increasingly important for understanding consumer behavior and improving communication between dealers and customers.
As the automotive industry continues to adapt to shifting consumer expectations and rapid technological change, ASOTU Con is positioned as a platform for collaboration and forward-looking discussion. Organizers say the event aims to equip attendees with actionable strategies while reinforcing a broader mission to elevate automotive retail into a more innovative and attractive industry.
