The Louisiana Automobile Dealers Association (LADA) on Tuesday met with Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry and welcomed Attorney General Liz Murrill and state legislators including State Senate President Cameron Henry and State Representative Michael Melerine during its inaugural Dealer Day at the Capitol.
The event aimed to facilitate networking opportunities for LADA members and dealership representatives, while simultaneously educating Louisiana leaders and the public about the significant impact Louisiana’s new car and heavy truck dealers have on the state.
Murrill gave a powerful keynote address at the event’s lunch briefing. President Henry and Rep. Melerine also addressed the group about the economic and community impact that LADA has across the state. Afterward, the group met with Governor Jeff Landy to discuss their priorities and were recognized to legislators on the House and Senate floors.
“We are thrilled with the turnout at our first Dealer Day,” said Coulter McMahen, president and CEO of LADA. “Our dealers give so much to the communities they serve – protecting consumers, providing economic opportunities and vital funding in our state – and it was extraordinary to be able to gather with our members from all over Louisiana. But equally important, this was an invaluable chance to share what we do with Governor Landry, AG Murrill and our state leaders.”
Louisiana’s new car and heavy truck dealers drive Louisiana’s economy, generating $19.2 billion in total sales annually. With these revenues, Louisiana dealerships support more than 34,000 total direct and indirect jobs and a $1.2 billion payroll. In total, new car and heavy truck dealers paid more than $771 million in taxes back to the state.
A robust dealer franchise system provides the public with access to vehicles at more competitive prices and gives them a network of convenient, cost-effective warranty recall and repair facilities.
For more information on LADA, visit www.lada.org.