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California wildfires have forced dealership closures, but communities are coming together to support first responders. Meanwhile, new-vehicle buyer satisfaction reached a record high in 2024, driven by seamless digital tools and efficient processes. During the first round of the NFL playoffs, A.J. Brown’s viral sideline book moment offers a glimpse into a high performer’s mindset and resilience.

As wildfires rage across Southern California, local businesses, including car dealerships, face significant challenges. Over 45 square miles have burned, forcing evacuations and disrupting operations. Some dealerships have temporarily closed, while others rally to support their communities and first responders

• LAcarGUY temporarily closed seven Santa Monica dealerships and one Hollywood location, Group 1 Automotive closed its Mercedes-Benz Beverly Hills store for two days. AutoNation reported no direct damage but continues to monitor the situation.
• Matthew Phillips, CEO of Car Pros Automotive Group, expressed concern for employees and the community, noting smoke and power outages at their locations near evacuation zone
• According to a linked in post, Brett Sutherlin, CEO of Sutherlin Automotive Group, lost his home to the Palisades fire, saying “We will be going through a lot over the next few weeks and dealing with the loss of our beautiful home and neighborhood,”

New-vehicle buyer satisfaction hit record highs in 2024, driven by enhanced digital tools and seamless integration between online and in-dealership activities. 

• According to Cox Automotive's latest Car Buyer Journey study, 75% of new-car buyers reported being highly satisfied with their shopping experience, underscoring the importance of transparency, technology, and efficiency in the automotive retail process.
• About 75% of new-vehicle buyers expressed high satisfaction with the shopping process in 2024, up from 73% in 2023, marking an all-time high for the study.
• Dealership satisfaction also hit a record 81%, with shoppers reporting reduced “sticker shock” and more positive feelings about vehicle selection.
• EV buyers led in satisfaction, with 82% highly satisfied, compared to 75% of gasoline-powered vehicle buyers.

During the Philadelphia Eagles' 22-10 playoff victory over the Green Bay Packers, wide receiver A.J. Brown kicked off a viral moment by reading a book on the sidelines. Brown, who had a quiet game with only one catch for 10 yards, was seen reading  "Inner Excellence" by Jim Murphy, a book focusing on mental training for peak performance. 

• The wide receiver had limited involvement in the game, with just one reception for 10 yards. 
• Brown explained that he brings the book to every game for a sense of peace, referring to it as his "recipe." 
• Commentators Kevin Burkhardt and Tom Brady noted Brown's

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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