The 5th annual CADA Summit is open for business and spots are filling up quickly. Dealers who want to book their spot at the perennially sold-out event are encouraged to visit: www.cadasummit.ca to register.
This year’s solid line-up will make it the best Summit to date, says Bonnie Wasser, Industry Relations Officer for the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association (CADA), and the event coordinator. “The event’s theme ‘Change isn’t coming — change is now’ reflects the urgency with which dealers need to assess the forces impacting their businesses,” says Wasser. “It’s a turbulent time for dealers, with opportunities and risks, and our CADA Summit line-up of speakers will address all of those key issues.”
The event is being held Feb. 15, 2017 at the Omni King Edward Hotel in Toronto, and just on the eve of the opening of the Canadian International AutoShow.
Some of the other topics include exploring the future of transportation in the sharing economy, where vehicle ownership models are evolving. Robin Chase, co-founder and former CEO of Zipcar will share her perspectives on how this movement will affect society and automotive retail.
Jesse Hirsh, a futurist, author, broadcaster, and a regular fixture on CBC television public affairs programs, will share his insights and analysis on emerging economic, societal and technology trends and will assess how this will impact dealers.
A panel of industry leaders and policy makers will wrestle with the issue of electric vehicles and debate the best approaches to balance the needs of governments and automakers in pushing for greater adoption of electric vehicles across Canada. Panelists include Hon. Glen Murray, Ontario Minister of Environment and Climate Change, David Adams, President, Global Automakers of Canada and Mark Nantais, President, Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers Association.
In the quest to provide a better customer experience, dealers, OEMs and other third-party companies are also working on new approaches and new technologies. This will be explored in a panel session entitled: Agents of Change. Speakers include Maria Soklis, President, Cox Automotive Canada, Tim Reuss, President Dilawri Group of Companies, Ray O’Kane, Executive Chair, Motoinsight (Unhaggle) and veteran CTV and Globe and Mail journalist Petrina Gentile.
In these uncertain times, expert dealership business valuator Erin Kerrigan will offer her perspective on whether dealers should “Exit or Invest” and will offer analysis and data about valuations and trends in the auto retail industry.
A panel of economists will look at the underlying economic and political trends and assess the business climate in the months ahead for dealers.
The CADA Summit is backed by an exclusive sponsorship from TD Auto Finance. TD Auto Finance will also be presenting at the event, sharing insights into economic trends that could impact dealers.
Visit: www.cadasummit.ca for more information and to book your spot.
