I want to begin this column by thanking my fellow North Carolina dealers for the honor of being elected the 2025-2026 NCADA Chairman. I recognize that I follow in the footsteps of many outstanding leaders who gave selflessly of their time and energy to strengthen our association. Their efforts have made NCADA the premier trade association it is today — dedicated to advancing our industry, advocating for our future and serving as a strong voice for every dealer in our state.
As we look ahead, I am excited to continue building on this foundation. We’ve had a great first half of the year with NCADA successfully completing an ambitious legislative agenda at the North Carolina General Assembly, delivering meaningful results for dealers and ensuring our franchise laws remain among the strongest in the nation.
With the support of our membership and the hard work of our government affairs team, we achieved important improvements to our franchise laws, secured regulatory reforms that reduce red tape and defended against threats to the dealer system. These accomplishments ensure a stronger foundation for our dealerships and for the thousands of North Carolinians employed in our industry. Your calls, emails and personal outreach to legislators made all the difference in getting our agenda across the finish line.
Also, we took the time this summer to gather for our NCADA Family Convention at the Stein Eriksen Lodge in Park City, Utah. It was a tremendous event — one that blended timely business sessions with opportunities to connect and enjoy the beauty of the mountains. Our panels and speakers covered critical issues shaping our industry, from economic trends and regulatory changes to emerging technologies that are redefining dealership operations. Just as importantly, the convention reinforced the unique camaraderie among our dealer families. I want to thank each of you who made the trip and participated — your engagement is what makes these gatherings meaningful and valuable.
No chairman’s column would be complete without acknowledging the extraordinary leadership of my predecessor, Randy Hunter. Under Randy’s guidance, NCADA navigated a year of challenges and opportunities with skill and focus. His commitment to strengthening our dealer body and his steady leadership were instrumental in positioning us for success. On behalf of the board and membership, I extend our deepest thanks to Randy and his wife Alice for their service..
Looking forward, NCADA’s work will not slow down. The challenges facing our industry — from rapid technological change to regulatory pressures — require us to remain vigilant and united. Our priorities will include continued advocacy at the legislature, strengthening dealer education programs and providing resources that help members adapt to a changing marketplace.
Our association’s strength has always been rooted in the collective involvement of its members. Whether through attending events, contributing to AutoPAC or volunteering your time on committees, your participation fuels our success. I encourage you to remain engaged in the months ahead as we continue to protect and advance the franchised dealer system in North Carolina.
Thank you for the trust you have placed in me as your chairman. I look forward to working alongside you to build on our accomplishments and to ensure that NCADA remains the strong, unified voice of our industry.
Rob L. King III
Bob King Automotive
2025-2026 NCADA Chairman
