American International Automobile Dealers Association
The American International Automobile Dealers Association (sometimes abbreviated as AIADA) is a United States lobbying force dedicated to the economic and political interests of America's international nameplate automobile dealers. Headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, its primary focus is on promoting free trade and opposing tax increases.
History
AIADA was established in 1970 as the Volkswagen Dealers Association in response to a growing protectionist movement in the United States. On September 10, 1970 the first Board of Directors meeting of the Volkswagen American Dealers Association (VADA) was held. The officers elected were David H. Gezon, President; Ken Sowles, Vice President; Richard Kronman, Secretary; and Bob Miller, Treasurer. Bob McElwaine became VADA's first Executive Vice President.
On January 30, 1970 VADA opened membership to any franchised dealer of imported automobiles and changed its name to the American Imported Automobile Dealers Association (AIADA). "Imported" was later changed to "international." Ken Sowles became the association's second president. Its current president is Cody Lusk.[1]
Today AIADA represents 9,500 international dealers and over 500,000 of their employees. AIADA serves as an advocate for these dealers before Congress, the White House, and federal agencies. [2]
Board Members
Greg Kaminsky - Chairman
Paul Ritchie - Chairman Elect
Brad Strong - Vice Chairman
Bradley Hoffman - Immediate Past Chairman
CJ Barnette,br />
George Brochick
Anthony Brownlee
Marc Cohen
Jason Courter
Steve Gates
Howard Hakes
Rahim Hassanally
Jim Hudson
Mario Murgado
Robert V. Rohrman