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A Global Lens on Our Local Future
In an era of rapid transformation, where business models are shifting and consumer expectations are evolving, no dealer association can afford to operate in a vacuum. The challenges we face in South Africa are rarely unique. they are often part of a global conversation about the future of mobility, retail efficiency, and the sustainability of our dealer networks.
At NADA, we have always believed that knowledge-sharing is one of our greatest assets. By observing how our counterparts navigate similar headwinds in the United States, Europe, and markets that closely resemble ours, like Australia, we gain a strategic advantage. We learn not only from their successes but, even more importantly, from their trials and tribulations.
This is why I am very proud to introduce a new, regular feature in our NADA newsletter. Moving forward, we will be spotlighting insights from leaders of dealer associations around the world. These voices will offer us a “global lens” on the trends that will eventually arrive on our doorstep.
We are honoured to launch this series with a contribution from James Voortman, CEO of the Australian Automotive Dealer Association (AADA). As James highlights, our two nations share much more than just a love for the “bakkie” or the “ute.” We share market dynamics, the entry of new global competitors, and the complexities of transitioning toward electrification.
I encourage you to take these global lessons to heart as we continue to build a stronger, more resilient retail environment here at home.
Enjoy the read.
Ashley Samuel
NATIONAL DIRECTOR
NADA
INSIGHTS FROM AUSTRALIAN AUTOMOTIVE DEALER ASSOCIATION (AADA)
By James Voortman, CEO of the AADA
I am pleased that NADA has asked me to contribute to its newsletter. Over the years the AADA has truly benefitted from the relationship we have developed with NADA. The time our associations spend understanding the dealership environment in international markets, allows us to develop valuable knowledge which benefits all our dealer members.
South Africa and Australia share a love of all the good things in life – the outdoors, sport, braai/BBQ and good wine. They also love their cars and both countries have some of the best automotive dealers in the world. As somebody who grew up in and regularly returns to SA, I often reflect on the similarities and differences between the Australian and SA automotive markets.
Click on the Read More link below for the full article.
COMPETITION INTENSIFIES IN SOUTH AFRICA’S NEV MARKET
South Africa’s New Energy Vehicle market is entering a more competitive phase.
While overall NEV growth has moderated compared to the rapid gains seen between 2022 and 2024, new data from Lightstone Auto shows that more brands are entering the market and market leadership is evolving quickly.
NEVs now account for nearly 4% of all new Light Vehicle sales in South Africa with 24 unique makes reporting sales.
DRIVING YOUTH POTENTIAL THIS YOUTH MONTH
This year’s Youth Month in South Africa is more than a commemorative period. It’s a reminder of the role young people have played, and continue to play, in shaping the nation’s future. Rooted in the legacy of the 1976 Soweto uprising, the month honours the courage and influence of young South Africans who challenged the status quo and demanded change.
This year, that same spirit finds new expression through initiatives such as the NADA-powered Motoring Mavericks, which is reigniting interest among South African youths in career opportunities in the automotive retail sector.
DEALERSHIPS REMAIN HUB FOR CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
Notwithstanding the fuel price, tariffs, rising living costs and a very slow growing economy, the sale of new vehicles in South Africa seems to have increased month after month.
The influx of new brands entering the South African automotive market has stimulated dealership growth. It is more than just another showroom floor to display new vehicles.
Dealerships are increasingly becoming lifestyle centres, places where customers can relax in comfort with good coffee and Wi-Fi while waiting for a service, minor repairs or paperwork.
Click Read More for all the exciting new dealership news from DealerFloor
