Author: Blair Qualey

The auto show isn’t back — it never left

April 9, 2026

After years of disruption, record attendance and high-intent engagement show why auto shows continue to matter  For a while, I’ll admit, I wondered what the future held for the traditional auto show. The Vancouver International Auto Show had been on …

The affordability challenge

March 6, 2026

Will 2026 be a turning point for affordable, practical vehicle ownership? British Columbia enters 2026 at a crossroads — one that reflects both the province’s unique pressures and the broader affordability challenges unfolding across Canada.  While BC faces several issues that are more …

Should B.C. keep leading in EV adoption?

November 17, 2025

The incentive “carrot” has been taken away, while the “stick” remains firmly in place September 9th marked International EV Day — traditionally a time to celebrate progress.  But this year, British Columbia stands at a crossroads. After 15 years of leadership …

Wanted: local talent

October 10, 2025

B.C.’s auto sector needs a global solution to solve tech shortage British Columbia’s automotive sector is at a turning point. Valued at over $17 billion annually and employing more than 30,000 people, the sector plays a crucial role in our province’s …

Tech shortages require new approaches

August 20, 2025

Chasing solutions to the skills shortage in the auto sector The auto sector is no different than other highly-skilled and tech-based industries that face a wave of retirements in the coming years. And while skills training and recruitment has been …

Don’t be afraid of the unknown

June 15, 2025

A balanced approach to understanding and using AI will serve auto dealers well Every time we step into a newer model vehicle, artificial intelligence makes its presence known, helping us make decisions and drive more safely, through features like emergency breaking …

Building a stronger future

May 22, 2025

Creating equal opportunities for all in the automotive sector The automotive sector has been a male dominated domain for decades, but in recent years we have seen a positive trend develop as more women ascend to senior leadership roles within …

The triumphant return of the auto show

April 9, 2025

After being sidelined by COVID and supply issues, auto shows have roared back to life I have to admit, there was a period when I questioned what the future might hold for the traditional auto show.  After all, the Vancouver …

2025 Resolutions: a look ahead

March 10, 2025

Another exciting but challenging year is ahead of us The old adage that a New Year brings renewed hope and optimism is one that our sector will gladly embrace.  As we enter the initial weeks of 2025, there is only …

Difference makers

December 2, 2024

Car dealers provide more than employment and vehicles — they support their communities Franchised new car dealers in British Columbia and across Canada are pillars of their respective communities — providing economic investment and a key source of employment and …

Auto policy in the spotlight

November 4, 2024

BC election pivotal for new vehicle sector As you read this column, British Columbia will be nearing the end of a provincial election campaign during which BC’s New Car Dealers (NCDA) highlighted a number of issues of concern to our …