New York’s franchised auto dealers generate more than $70 billion in economic activity and support tens of thousands of jobs, according to a new report from the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association. Association President Mark Scheinberg joins us on today’s CBT Live to discuss what those numbers say about the industry’s role in local communities and why that economic impact matters as dealers face rising costs, affordability concerns and ongoing policy challenges.
During today’s conversation, Scheinberg highlights the association’s 2026 report, which found that retail automotive businesses generate more than $70 billion across New York’s lower 12 counties and employ about 70, 000 people directly and indirectly. The industry is also the state’s fourth-largest retail employer, with average annual dealership compensation of $ 103,000. Scheinberg highlighted career growth from entry- level roles to management, saying dealerships provide lasting livelihoods. These figures show lawmakers that dealers are not just vehicle sellers, rather, they are small businesses that create jobs, support charities and serve local communities. The association uses the data to advocate on issues including auto brokering and manufacturer warranty reimbursement.
For the 2027 legislative session, Schienberg said the association will focus on affordability, overregulation, energy costs, taxes, auto brokers, and reimbursement for defective products. Scheinberg said dealers’ cost pressures affect their ability to employ people and serve communities. On EVs, he noted sales have fallen about 50% in the two years since incentives ended, but said they’ll remain part of the market. At the 2026 New York Auto Show, 125,000 visitors experienced electric and hybrid vehicles through ride-and-drive events, while consumer consideration continues to grow. New York’s franchise laws also protect dealers as the industry monitors manufacturers’ direct- sales plans, including Scout Motors.
Scheinberg said auto shows are regaining momentum and influence shoppers after they leave. At the 2026 New York Auto Show, 56% of attendees were expected to shop within 12 months; the association found that 92% of them bought a vehicle within a year. Visitors spend hours comparing vehicles and speaking with specialists before choosing dealership test drives. He noted similar energy at the recent Paris Motor Show, where strong attendance accompanied new products and discussions of EVs and China’s market. Shows, he said, connect dealers and manufacturers with serious shoppers, offering consumers a chance to explore brands and technologies before visiting a dealership.
