Defending the Franchise: Ted Smith on State Dealer Associations

Inside Automotive with Jim Fitzpatrick, powered by CBT News

State dealer associations defend dealers' rights daily by monitoring industry trends, anticipating challenges, and initiating protective measures before dealers even realize they're needed. Ted Smith, President of Florida Automobile Dealers Association, explains how trade associations provide crucial support to dealers who are too busy running their businesses to track regulatory changes and manufacturer maneuvers.
• State associations monitor industry trends and anticipate challenges so dealers can focus on running their businesses
• Florida led the fight against manufacturers bypassing the franchise system with direct-to-consumer sales models
• FADA raised $4 million to win a landmark 2008 case ensuring proper warranty reimbursement for dealers
• Current battles include fighting for OEM parts usage and against EPA regulations that could disrupt dealer allocations
• The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers' letter to the DOJ calling franchise laws "anti-competitive" raises serious concerns
• Smith challenges manufacturers to clarify if they truly support the franchise system or are planning to bypass dealers
Support your state dealer association and NADA through membership and PAC contributions to ensure they can continue fighting for dealers' rights at both state and federal levels.
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Kapitel

1. Introduction to State Dealer Associations (00:00:00)

2. The Trade Association Model (00:04:52)

3. Fighting Direct-to-Consumer Sales in Florida (00:09:13)

4. Defending Dealers Against Unfair Warranty Practices (00:14:48)

5. Current Battles with Manufacturers (00:18:56)

6. The Alliance Letter Controversy (00:20:39)