AN ECONOMIC POWERHOUSE Today, VADA represents more than 450 franchised new-car and truck dealerships across Virginia — a network that directly and indirectly supports over 61,000 jobs and contributes more than $28 billion in annual sales, roughly 20 percent of all retail sales statewide. According to the National Automobile Dealers Association, Virginia’s 470 new-car dealerships generated $28.6 billion in 2024, making the automotive sector the Commonwealth’s largest retail industry. Dealers contributed over $1.9 billion in state and federal taxes and employ, on average, 65 people per location — from sales and service technicians to finance and administrative professionals. “These aren’t just jobs,” says Roger Keller, Chair of VADA and Vice President at Sheehy Auto Stores. “They’re careers that sustain families, provide benefits, and keep local economies thriving. Every dealership represents an anchor in its community.” DEALERS AS COMMUNITY BUILDERS Beyond the economic numbers lies something more personal: community. Virginia’s dealerships are often multigenerational, family-run businesses that have become fixtures in their towns and cities. They sponsor youth sports, donate to local charities, and support civic causes across the Commonwealth. “When people walk through our doors, they’re not just buying a vehicle,” Keller adds. “They’re forming a relationship — one built on trust, service, and community.” This close connection to customers is part of what gives franchised dealerships their staying power — offering not just products, but personalized service, warranty support, and long-term reliability that builds consumer confidence. A LEGISLATIVE POWERHOUSE VADA has earned a reputation as one of Virginia’s most influential business advocacy organizations. The association has helped secure key legislation to strengthen dealer–manufacturer relationships, protect fair compensation, and maintain a level playing field for businesses of all sizes. “Manufacturers build the cars, but dealers deliver the customer experience — sales, financing, service, and community support,” Hall emphasizes.“Our advocacy ensures Virginians keep those benefits and that big corporations can’t sidestep fair competition.” One of VADA’s most notable efforts has been defending the franchise model from manufacturers seeking to sell vehicles directly to consumers. Hall has called such efforts “an existential threat to franchised dealers,” warning that direct-to-consumer 22 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 11
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