CBT News was on the ground at this year’s New York Automotive Forum, where industry leaders are gathering for a critical look at the market’s future. Hosted by NADA, J.D. Power, and the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), this year’s event is shaping the conversation around profitability, M&A activity, and the evolving dealer landscape. We caught up with George Karolis, president of The Presidio Group, to get his take on where things stand today.
Key Takeaways:
- Stable Q1 Earnings Signal M&A Strength
Preliminary Q1 2025 data from The Presidio Group’s partnership with NCM shows the first signs of earnings stability in four years. After a long stretch of volatility, profitability appears to be leveling off—particularly driven by strong performance in luxury and import brands. As a result, the dealership buy-sell market remains active and healthy, with no major slowdowns attributed to tariff pressures—yet. - Dealer Confidence Holds Amid Tariff Uncertainty
While tariffs continue to dominate headlines, their actual impact on the M&A market and dealership operations has been limited so far. Karolis says many experienced dealers are taking a long-term view, seeing the current climate as another challenge to weather rather than a reason to exit. Fixed operations remain a key profit center, offering stability even if new car sales fluctuate. - Improved Sentiment Toward Nissan Stores
Karolis notes a shift in dealer sentiment regarding the Nissan brand, which previously saw some hesitation in the buy-sell market. Thanks to a reinvigorated executive team and more optimistic messaging about product direction and dealer relations, the brand is regaining traction. While still in “wait and see” territory for some, interest in Nissan rooftops is beginning to rise again among opportunistic buyers.
Catch all of CBT News’ coverage of the NY Automotive Forum 2025 here.
