Dealers and suppliers had positive reviews for both the content and the venue for the Western Dealer Summit held at the spectacular Fairmont Château Lake Louise in Alberta between Nov. 16-19.
The event was held on behalf of the Motor Dealers of Alberta (MDA), the Saskatchewan Auto Dealers Association and the New Car Dealers Association of BC.
Several speakers talked about changes impacting the industry, and industry and technology experts briefed dealers about digital marketing trends and strategies.
Speakers included Charlie Vogelheim, the principal of Vogelheim Ventures, Brian Sencich, the new Head of Industry, Automotive at TikTok Canada, George Nenni, the founder of Generations Digital (a technology marketing analytics firm), Mathew Growden, the head of the Google Canada’s auto retail team; and Joy Hawkins, owner and founder of SEO-focused company Sterling Sky.
The isolated location gave dealers and suppliers more opportunities to network and connect, including a western-themed banquet and music outing at Brewsters Barn. Suppliers and sponsors were able to exhibit and interact with dealer attendees.
Former NHL star Jeremy Roenick delivered an inspirational address, and true to form dealers dug into their pockets to raise more than $50,000 in an auction of signed jerseys, that will help benefit students in the host province.
Next year the event returns to the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alta. Nov. 14-17, 2024.
