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Episode #1205: We break down how automakers are strengthening supply chains, why Stellantis is pushing out in-car ads, and what’s driving up the overall cost of Thanksgiving this year.

Show Notes with links:

• After five years of nonstop crises—from pandemics to tariffs to literal factory fires—automakers and suppliers are rethinking supply chain strategy with a focus on resilience, transparency, and deeper collaboration.
  • GM, Stellantis, and suppliers say “resilience” now means shorter, simpler, more visible supply chains to avoid single-point failures.
  • GM is using AI and machine-learning tools to map multilevel suppliers, but trust and data protection remain barriers.
  • Stellantis’ command center is rapidly shifting materials—like swapping aluminum for steel after a supplier fire—to avoid shutdowns.
  • GM’s senior vice president of manufacturing and product engineering, research and development Josh Tavel: “When we share data, align on standards and innovate together…we can all elevate our game.”

• Stellantis is catching heat after Jeep, Ram, and Chrysler owners reported marketing pop-ups showing up on their infotainment screens. It’s not the first time, but this round is louder, wider, and way more frustrating for drivers.
  • Jeep owners across social media shared identical “marketing notifications,” sparking backlash and déjà vu from February’s warranty-ad pop-ups.
  • Auto writer Zerin Dube posted the now-viral screenshot—then ironically used the $1,500 loyalty offer to buy a new Wrangler Rubicon X.
  • Stellantis said the messages appear only at startup, disappear when driving, and can be permanently opted out via their customer care line.
  • Stellantis spokesperson: “Our goal is to deliver the best vehicle experience… As a result of these efforts, we have seen our customers take advantage of this offer.”

• Thanksgiving shoppers are feeling the squeeze this year as bird flu, tariffs, and weather combine to push up the cost of the holiday meal—even as grocers scramble to keep turkey prices in check.
  • The U.S. turkey flock hit a 40-year low after disease outbreaks, tightening supply and raising wholesale turkey prices more than 40%.
  • Retailers are discounting turkeys, but staples like canned goods, sides, and produce are up—raising total meal costs between 2% and 5% depending on whose estimate you trust.
  • Tariffs on imported steel and aluminum are making canned items pricier, including cranberry sauce, which surged 38% in one survey.
  • “I don’t know of anything that’s down in price since last year except for eggs,” said consultant Paul Nadeau

Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.

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