A Foundation of Strength and Unity
Ninety years ago, amidst the turmoil of the Great Depression, a small group of North Carolina automobile dealers gathered in Raleigh to address their industry’s challenges. Their vision was clear: to form an organization that would unite dealers, advocate for their businesses and protect the growing automotive industry in North Carolina. From that meeting in April 1935, the North Carolina Automobile Dealers Association (NCADA) was established.
With 181 charter members and a mission to serve, NCADA quickly became a powerful force, protecting dealerships from unfair taxation, strengthening their business practices and promoting growth in a rapidly evolving market. Over the last nine decades, NCADA has guided its members through wars, economic downturns, technological revolutions and even a global pandemic — always with a focus on dealer advocacy, community service and leadership.
Weathering the Storms: NCADA Through the Decades
The War Years & Industry Challenges (1930s-1940s)
As America entered World War II, North Carolina’s auto dealers faced new challenges. Factories halted car production to build military vehicles, and dealerships pivoted to selling used cars, repairing military fleets and supporting the war effort.
Many showrooms became recruitment centers, with dealers and their employees enlisting in droves. Some even helped form the 537th Heavy Maintenance Company, ensuring that vehicles remained combat-ready. Even as resources dwindled and tires were rationed, NCADA stepped up — lobbying for tax relief and securing government loans to keep dealerships afloat.
Boom Times & Legislative Victories (1950s-1970s)
The post-war boom of the 1950s brought prosperity, and NCADA grew alongside the industry. The association championed highway safety laws, vehicle inspections and dealer protection measures, ensuring the industry’s continued success.
In the 1970s, NCADA secured one of its greatest victories: the passage of the Dealer Franchise Law in 1973. This law protected dealers from unfair manufacturer practices, safeguarding franchise agreements, warranty reimbursements and dealership succession rights. The legislation was later strengthened in 1983, making it one of the most comprehensive dealer protection laws in the country.
Navigating Change & Economic Crises (1980s-2000s)
In the 1980s and 1990s, NCADA expanded its services, helping dealerships save on insurance costs, navigate financial crises and advocate against harmful regulations. Membership flourished, and the association cemented itself as a leading voice in national automotive policy.
However, the 2000s brought new challenges. The Great Recession (2008-2010) and the bankruptcies of Chrysler and GM devastated dealerships across North Carolina. NCADA fought tirelessly, supporting dealers through legal battles, advocating for pro‑dealer legislation and helping terminated dealerships regain their franchises.
Strength Through Adversity: NCADA’s Leadership and Industry Resurgence (2010s to present)
In June 2010, NCADA celebrated its 75th anniversary with a steadfast commitment to recovering from the industry turmoil caused by automotive bankruptcies. Through entrepreneurial innovation and strategic adjustments, the Association and its members worked to navigate the economic recovery and emerge stronger from the depths of the recession.
Over the next decade, North Carolina dealers took on prominent leadership roles, including two national NADA chairmen, five national finalists and two national winners of the TIME Ally National Dealer of the Year award.
New vehicle sales steadily climbed in the early years of the new decade, with year-over-year gains in new vehicle registrations averaging 10.62%. After a period of plateaued sales, North Carolina dealers achieved a milestone in 2019, setting a record with over 501,000 new vehicles registered in the state.
However, another significant challenge loomed with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. NCADA and its dealers rose to the occasion, launching a critical lobbying effort to ensure that North Carolina’s car and truck dealers were designated as “essential businesses,” allowing them to remain open during the height of the pandemic.
In the years following the COVID crisis, NCADA has remained at the forefront of efforts to protect and promote the franchised dealer system. From the “All in on EVs” campaign — positioning dealers as the best resource for EV technology — to defending against the push for direct-to-consumer sales, NCADA and its member dealers continue to champion the future of the industry.
Leadership in Action: NCADA’s Impact on Communities
More than just a business association, NCADA has transformed lives across North Carolina through its commitment to community service:
- North Carolina Teacher of the Year Program (2001‑2014): NCADA established this program to honor educators across the state, gifting a new car each year to the state’s best teacher.
- Support Our Troops (Post-9/11): Following the Sept. 11 attacks, NCADA members raised $360,000 to support military families affected by the War on Terror.
- Hometown Heroes Initiative (2016-Present): In honor of first responders, NCADA created this program to recognize police officers, firefighters and EMS workers who go above and beyond in their communities. Over 1,000 first responders have been honored since its launch.
- Triangle Flight of Honor (2009-2011): NCADA dealers organized and funded flights for over 800 WWII veterans to visit the National WWII Memorial in Washington, D.C.
These initiatives demonstrate NCADA’s unwavering commitment to making North Carolina a better place for all.
The Tradition Continues: A Look to the Next 90 Years
As NCADA marks its 90th anniversary, it remains one of the nation’s strongest dealer associations. The dedication, resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of North Carolina’s franchised dealers have not only shaped the automotive industry but also enriched the communities they serve.
The foundation laid in 1935 has proven strong and enduring. Looking ahead, NCADA is committed to remaining a relentless and steadfast advocate for our members, ensuring that North Carolina’s franchised dealers continue to thrive in an ever-evolving industry. With a focus on innovation, advocacy and dealer success, the Association will continue to provide the resources, education and support needed to navigate emerging trends and challenges. As the automotive landscape transforms, NCADA remains dedicated to empowering its members, driving industry progress and upholding the values that have defined it for 90 years.
