The association said that the decision to reschedule was made in consultation with members, sponsors and industry partners.

It was caused by significant staffing issues and the operational impact that the COVID Omicron variant is presenting to all businesses throughout Australia.

 The AADA CEO James Voortman said in a statement: “The safety of our members and their staff is our number one priority, and we believe rescheduling this very important event is in the best interest of our members, sponsors and industry stakeholders.”

James Voortman

He said that the AADA Convention & Expo was an important industry event that provides dealers with a platform to ensure that their issues are heard. 

“Our members face a range of threats in the immediate future, those include the ongoing challenges in the franchise relationship, skills shortages, new vehicle inventory supply, used vehicle supply, declining F&I revenues and regulatory oversight. These are all vital issues for new car franchised Dealers that will be covered at the 2022 AADA Convention & Expo,” he said.

“The automotive industry is going through a period of significant change, and it is more important than ever that dealers unite to address common challenges. The AADA Convention & Expo provides the perfect opportunity for the industry to come together and tackle some of these issues head on,” Mr Voortman said .

“The Secretariat and the Convention team will be working around the clock to deliver the first-class event that our members deserve,” he said.

The AADA said that its Convention & Expo program would “provide an engaging and comprehensive overview of the market, it’s strengths and weaknesses together with a detailed analysis of the issues affecting new car dealers. The Convention also presents a world class expo of the latest products and services.”

The promoter of the AADA Convention and Expo, Patrick Tessier told GoAutoNews Premium: “Support for the AADA Convention & Expo is the highest I have seen in the 25 years I have managed the event. There is a tangible desire for the industry to come together and put the COVID challenges behind us.

“There is no question Australian dealers have many serious challenges, but they also have boundless opportunities. 

“The AADA Convention & Expo provides a platform for dealers, suppliers and partners to come together and shape the future, not just wait for it,” Mr Tessier said.

By John Mellor