Customers judge a dealership more by its service department than its showroom. While many focus on sales, fixed ops is the most profitable area of a store and the single largest influence on public perception.
Don Hall’s Monthly Columns
Here, find a collection of VADA President and CEO Don Hall’s timely and relevant analysis on the auto industry in Virginia.
Investing in education: the overlooked power of the parts department
This month, I went back to the classroom at the NADA Academy to dive deep into a critical, yet often overlooked, area of the dealership: the parts department. After more than 40 years in this business, it was a humbling reminder that there’s always more to learn.
Tariffs or otherwise, we’ve been down this road before
Proposed 25% auto tariffs threaten to significantly increase vehicle prices, creating challenges for dealers and consumers alike. Despite the uncertainty, the industry is preparing, drawing on a long history of resilience to navigate economic shifts.
When You Stop Learning, You Stop Leading
‘When you stop learning, you stop leading.’ That’s a truth I reaffirmed at a recent industry gathering, where I was reminded that continuous growth is essential, no matter where you are in your career. I challenge you to seek opportunities to learn from diverse perspectives and push beyond your comfort zone, because staying stagnant is a recipe for irrelevance.
What’s in a name?
In today’s business climate, leading by example is more important than ever. Strong leadership inspires teams, setting the tone for success and resilience.
Community Colleges: the key to automotive’s workforce challenges
VADA’s Don Hall joined officials from Virginia’s community college system on a bus tour of community colleges in Tennessee. Here’s what they saw.
Let’s put in the work to improve the customer experience
Approaching the holidays, Don Hall takes a look at the year that was — and the one to come.
A season of reflection as we pave the way for franchise system evolution in 2025
Approaching the holidays, Don Hall takes a look at the year that was — and the one to come.
Transparency and Talent on the Minds of Automotive Association Leaders
Don Hall spent a few days with his counterparts this month in North Carolina. Here’s what they talked about.
A United Voice in Washington and Richmond for the Retail Auto Industry
A Message from VADA President and CEO Don Hall July 2024 This summer marks a pivotal moment for Virginia’s automotive industry as we gear up for an impactful campaign season