Mike Stanton, President and CEO of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), sat down with CBT News‘ Jim Fitzpatrick to share his perspective on the outlook for the automotive industry in 2025. With the event buzzing with energy, Stanton discusses a range of issues, from government regulations impacting car sales to the ongoing challenges facing dealerships.
Key Takeaways:
- Stanton acknowledges the ongoing concerns within the automotive industry, such as interest rates and affordability, but he remains optimistic about 2025. The industry’s resilience and adaptability are evident as dealers continue to find ways to succeed despite external pressures. With a forecasted 16 million-plus vehicle sales for the year, Stanton is confident that the industry will perform well and dealers will continue to thrive as they adjust to changing market conditions.
- Additionally, Stanton discusses NADA’s legal stance against brands like Volkswagen and Honda, which have moved toward selling products that could directly compete with their own dealer network. He made it clear that the NADA would take legal action if necessary to protect the franchise model, an issue the association has long championed. His commitment to this cause signals that the NADA will continue to push back against actions that undermine the dealer network and its established relationship with manufacturers.
- He also emphasizes the importance of focusing on the basics—providing excellent customer service and doing the day-to-day work required to succeed. While macroeconomic factors like interest rates and affordability are concerning, he believes that dealers can navigate the upcoming challenges in the market by staying grounded in what they do best: taking care of their customers and running their businesses efficiently.
Catch all of CBT News’ coverage of the 2025 NADA Show here.
