Pub. 14 2015-2016 Issue 4

N E W J E R S E Y C O A L I T I O N O F A U T O M O T I V E R E T A I L E R S I S S U E N O . 1 , 2 0 1 6 26 new jersey auto retailer and features that are (or are not) built into automobiles. Indeed, the franchise system actually supports greater innovation, because it frees up capital that manufacturers would otherwise put to mun- dane use retailing vehicles and allows automakers to invest more in research and development that drives innovation. Myth #5 – State motor vehicle franchise laws are the result of improper or undue influence exerted on the legislative process by powerful dealer lobbies. Automakers and academics who oppose the franchise system are at a loss to explain their inability to persuade state legislatures of their position. So, they have suggested the universal adoption of state motor vehicle franchise laws all across the US is evidence of a vast conspiracy by dealers to exert some kind of improper or undue influence over the legislative process. Sounds like “sour grapes” and a fanciful construct to divert attention from the fact that automakers actually outspend dealers on lobbying in virtually every state capitol in America. It is also worth noting that dealer advocates are obliged to make their case at state houses all across the US, not because dealers want it that way, but because anti-trust laws prevent dealers from engaging in collective bargaining with automakers. If dealers were permitted to organize to protect their economic interests and to engage in concerted action against automakers, like a union, that would no doubt be preferable for the dealers, but that would not benefit consumers. Clearly, the public and consumer interests are best served by having these policy debates in public and decided by democratically-elected state representatives. President’s MESSAGE  continued from page 7 n n n n Vehicle Sales Finance and Insurance Fixed Operations Business Development NJ CAR knows that the cost of training dealership employees can be prohibitive, especially for smaller deal - erships or those with high turnover. The goal of the NJ CAR Academy is to ensure that quality training is offered at a price that is affordable to everyone. Since the training will be conducted locally in New Jersey, travel expenses are negligible and overnight stays for dealership employees are not required. The NJ CAR Academy will utilize local trainers who are familiar with New Jersey market practices and New Jersey and federal laws and regulations. On occasion, the Academy will offer special programming using out-of-State industry experts. Each course offered through the Academy will include extensive participant workbooks with action plans that can be followed-up on when participants return to their dealerships. Your Success I s Our Business! NJ CAR has offered a variety of seminars, workshops and certification programs for its members over the years; however, the Coalition recognizes that in today’s competitive environment, there is a need to provide a consistent training curriculum held on a more frequent basis in the four key areas of dealership operations :