Dave Cantin Group’s Market Outlook Report is an exclusive, multi-perspective report that takes a deep dive into the most critical trends impacting the retail automotive segment.

Actionable insights from market-backed data, top analysts, and industry authorities provide critical insights required to adapt to current and emerging market issues.

Here’s a sneak peek at what’s inside the new release:

• Valuations and Industry Adaptation: Discover the latest trends in dealership valuations and how the industry is adapting to new challenges.
• M&A Landscape: Buyer/seller interest remains strong, with around 37% of owners looking to buy this year, while just under 44% are looking to sell. Gain insights into the growing interest in mergers and acquisitions, including dealers’ plans for succession and profitability outlook.
• Inventory Management: Higher levels of inventory, higher rates, and slowing consumer demand are increasing dealership financing for floorplan expenses.
• Consumer Slowdown: New vehicle days of sales have jumped from ~39 days in 2023 to ~58 days this year, surpassing the profitability threshold of ~48 days. Understand why new vehicle days of sales have increased and what dealers are saying about this shift. Consumers have reached their limit on paying top dollar for cars.
• Dealership Performance: Larger dealerships have invested in performance since 2020, making it harder for smaller dealerships to compete and creating more challenges.
• Electric Vehicles (EVs): 2024 has highlighted significant industry developments, with no direct effect on dealerships. However, high-profile OEM bankruptcies, major production misses, and consumers turning back to BEVs have created both winning and losing brands. Learn about the transition from Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles to EVs, including buyer concerns and preferences.
• OEMs & Supply Chain: New car supply is growing, with production and supply chains performing well this year. Predictions suggest inventory levels will be at pre-pandemic levels by the end of the year.
• Politics and Regulation: The election year and major Supreme Court rulings are likely to reduce EPA and other agency influences on the industry.
• Macroeconomics: Interest rates remain the primary concern for most dealers, making it difficult for them to make tough choices and prioritize.

This report draws on market-backed data and interviews with industry experts to provide a detailed view of how the year is progressing and what dealers and industry professionals can anticipate in the second half of the year.

Fill out the form below to download the Mid-Year Release today and dive deeper into these findings and market dynamics!