Despite a year filled with many unpredictable twists and turns due largely in part to the COVID-19 pandemic, the automotive industry has remained resilient and profitable. Many industry experts are predicting a strong start to the new year as well. On today’s show, we’re taking a look back at the hardships and successes of 2020 and what dealers can expect in 2021 with Don Hall, president and CEO of the Virginia Automobile Dealers Association.
The onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic was something that no one in the automotive industry anticipated. In fact, most Americans have not lived long enough to remember something like this ever happening before. It has been the most unique year in recent memory, and it shows how resilient the auto retail industry really is. Even in the worst conditions, car dealers have been able to make sales and meet the needs of their customers.
As we enter the last remaining few weeks of December, Hall and anchor Jim Fitzpatrick take a look back at a tumultuous but ultimately successful year. The pair also look ahead to 2021 industry trends and tackle the following in today’s segment:
- The impact that this year has had on the automotive industry overall
- The industry’s proudest moments and moments of concern from 2020
- The trends we will likely continue to see in the new year
- What dealers should be doing now as they prepare for the new year
- Expectations for 2021
