Shortly after starting his own independent car dealership, Friendly Auto Gallery, in Cumming, Ga., Paul Nicholas attended the NIADA Convention looking for tips to boost his business.
“As a new dealer, I’d go for the education. That’s where I learned about 20 Groups,” Nicholas recalled. “I connected with new companies and vendors. It helped me find the tools to be successful.”
Eager to learn and network with fellow automobile dealers, Nicholas is heading to Las Vegas June 19-22 for the NIADA Accelerate 2023 Convention and Expo at the Wynn. This year, Nicholas will be enjoying upgraded accommodations after winning NIADA’s third drawing for three free nights in a suite during the convention.
“It’s exciting. My wife was extremely happy,” Nicholas said about winning the suite drawing May 31.
Nicholas joins Elizabeth Sifen of Auto Connection in Virginia and Jeffrey Myers of All Wheel Drive in Denver, Colo., as winners of the suites courtesy of NIADA.
Nicholas has been in the industry for more than 20 years and has operated is own dealership since 2015. He always looks forward to the convention.
“I go to see what’s the newest information on the market and see the newest technology. It’s great for the camaraderie with the other dealers. The breakout sessions always have good information. It’s good to see what the future is holding.”
Paul Nicholas, Friendly Auto Gallery in Cumming, Ga.
“I go to see what’s the newest information on the market and see the newest technology,” Nicholas said. “It’s great for the camaraderie with the other dealers. The breakout sessions always have good information. It’s good to see what the future is holding.”
During the four days of the largest convention for the independent dealer, there are 77 education sessions to help with multiple areas of operations at the dealership. There are also more than 200 providers in the exhibit hall to assist with solutions at your dealership. Also lenders will be on hand to visit with during the finance fair.
Nicholas, who is the treasurer for the GIADA, said, with the current market, dealers could benefit from attending the convention.
“With the market, it’s more important to make sure you have the right partners and vendors to maximize profits on each deal,” Nicholas said.
Register for the NIADA Accelerate 2023 Convention and Expo at niada.com/convention.
