To fellow automotive industry professionals:

Being in the automotive industry, I know we do not often get the chance to slow down, but I do hope all of you are enjoying your summer, relaxing, and enjoying time with your family and friends.

You probably have read the same reports as I have that predict a resurgence in the automotive industry with a rebound of new vehicle sales not too far down the road. The big question is “how are we going to prepare for the ramp-up?” Staffing, working capital, and supply chain stability are just a few of the major challenges automakers and suppliers will face head-on in the coming months. The Society of Automotive Analysts (SAA) understands these issues and has them at the top of our agenda for the second half of the year.

SAA members and guests were able to experience some insightful and timely virtual and in-person events in the first half of 2022. We enjoyed an insider’s look at the latest happenings at Microsoft, heard from the experts at Foley & Lardner about the legal issues impacting the industry this year, and learned strategies from the purchasing directors of the major automakers. Our virtual events received rave reviews from attendees as well, including our popular Recalls Summit and Outlook Conference. Our new Lunch & Learn series also didn’t disappoint with record attendees on topics such as staffing and EV batteries and will continue as we move forward.

I encourage you to check our website regularly (www.SAAauto.com) for updates on the latest SAA events. We have some outstanding events planned for the second half of the year including tours of the North American International Auto Show, our Annual Mobility Innovations Summit, and our financial-focused event held with Riveron, to name just a few. I encourage your company to enter the Mobility Innovations Awards, a free and easy-to-enter competition that recognizes the best innovations in lightweighting and technologies that enable new business models (click here to learn more about the awards).

If you are currently an SAA member, I want to thank you for your loyalty to the organization. If you are not a member, there is no better time to join. For current members, now is the time to renew. The SAA is running a summer membership special that allows you to join or renew at half price ($75 instead of the normal $150 rate). Additionally, two people will be randomly selected to win a $150 gift card to Total Wine & More. Click here for more information.

To ensure we are providing value to our members and to help guide our future programs, we will be sending a member survey out later this month. Please take a few minutes to complete the survey as your opinions do matter.

Finally, please reach out to me at aabraham@ducker.com if you have any ideas, thoughts, or opinions you would like to share with me or the SAA Board.

On behalf of the SAA Board, we hope you and your family have a safe and healthy summer – and I look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events.

 

Sincerely,

 

Abey Abraham

Principal, Ducker

President, Board of Directors
Society of Automotive Analysts