As 2026 draws to a close, I want to thank our dealer members, industry partners, and fellow board members for their continued support of the Greater Los Angeles New Car Dealers Association (GLANCDA). As my two-year term as president concludes in December, I am proud of what we have accomplished and optimistic about the opportunities ahead.
Our dealer members’ involvement is one of our greatest strengths. This December, GLANCDA will hold elections for five open seats on its Board of Directors. If you are ready to help shape policy, strengthen dealer representation and guide GLANCDA’s priorities, submit your self-nomination beginning Nov. 1. Contact Executive Director Bob Smith to discuss the responsibilities, timeline and impact of board service.
The Los Angeles Auto Show is another exciting opportunity. It opens Nov. 20 for nine days at the Los Angeles Convention Center, and GLANCDA proudly supports and promotes this important industry showcase. As a membership benefit, every dealer member receives 40 complimentary any-day admission tickets. Reserve your tickets now and invite employees, customers and community partners to experience the latest in automotive innovation.
If your membership has lapsed or you have not yet joined, begin or renew your membership for 2026 and beyond to receive this benefit and support our association’s important work. Visit glancda.org or contact Bob Smith or Kelly Edwards to begin or renew your membership. Active and paid members can also visit our website to review the status of a specific dealership.
Looking ahead, we are expanding opportunities for industry partners. Beginning in 2027, businesses that support new car dealers can become affiliate members and sponsors of GLANCDA programs and events. Affiliate members will have opportunities to connect directly with dealer leaders while supporting initiatives such as our Annual Dealer Member Luncheon in April, workforce development programs at local community colleges, a March event at the Petersen Automotive Museum, and technician tool scholarship presentations. Contact GLANCDA to discuss affiliate membership and sponsorship options, and watch for additional details in November and December.
Advocacy remains central to our mission. Bob Smith continues to coordinate opportunities for dealers to meet with local, state and federal elected officials. Our industry faces significant challenges, including manufacturer issues involving the franchise system and direct vehicle sales, facility requirements and increasingly complex regulatory compliance obligations. Help policymakers understand the realities of operating a dealership by contacting Bob Smith to schedule a meeting with an elected representative, inviting an official to visit your dealership or volunteering for an upcoming advocacy effort. Your firsthand perspective can influence decisions affecting your business, employees and community.
Finally, growing our membership and strengthening GLANCDA as a valuable resource for every dealer will remain priorities in 2027. Encourage a neighboring dealer to join, attend an upcoming GLANCDA event, share your ideas with association leaders and help build relationships across our industry. Our association is strongest when dealers participate, and getting involved can be enjoyable and rewarding.
Thank you for the privilege of serving as your president. I look forward to GLANCDA’s continued success and to working together to strengthen our industry.
