Record-Breaking Success
The 2025 Alabama-Mississippi-Tennessee New Car and Truck Dealers Convention was a historic gathering, setting a new benchmark for automotive industry meetings. Hosted at the stunning Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa along Florida’s Gulf Coast, the event drew a record number of Mississippi dealerships and vendor partners, with nearly 800 attendees filling the resort for three days of networking, education and celebration.
From the electrifying opening reception to the dazzling fireworks display over the Gulf of Mexico, the convention was a whirlwind of unforgettable moments. Attendees were quick to dub it the best event yet, with Paxton King, MADA past chairman, summing it up: “Every year is great, but this one was exceptional. The energy, the crowd — it was the best we’ve ever had!”
Powerful Presentations and Industry Insights
The convention’s agenda was packed with thought-provoking sessions. Automotive analyst Kevin Tynan of the Presidio Group captivated a ballroom full of attendees with his deep dive into the current state of the automotive industry. “Kevin’s insight on the automotive industry is second to none,” said Jeff Smith, MADA chairman. “He always provides research that helps dealers with what’s coming in auto retail. It was eye-opening.”
Adding a touch of inspiration, football legend Reggie Collier, the first NCAA quarterback to rush and pass for over 1,000 yards in a single season, shared stories from his days playing at the University of Southern Mississippi (USM). His recap of breaking Alabama’s 57-game winning streak in Tuscaloosa was one of the highlights. “Hearing from Reggie was entertaining — the stories about his playing days at USM were fun to hear,” noted Larry Clark, chairman of the Mississippi Motor Vehicle Commission.
NADA Vice President of Industry Relations Todd Milbury also delivered a standout presentation, offering a national perspective on OEM-dealer dynamics and advocacy insights. “Todd brought clarity to some of the biggest challenges we’re facing with the manufacturers. We appreciate his work on our behalf,” said Michael Joe Cannon, Mississippi NADA director.
A Memorable Experience Fueled by Community and Sponsors
The convention wasn’t just about business — it was an opportunity to showcase all that is happening in the dealer community. The breathtaking fireworks finale over the Gulf was a fitting capstone to an extraordinary gathering.
None of this would have been possible without the generous support of the event’s sponsors, whose commitment made every moment — from the welcome reception to the final fireworks — truly special. “We’re incredibly grateful to our sponsors for helping us create an experience that our members will remember for years to come,” said Marty Milstead, MADA president.
Mark Your Calendars for 2026
The 2025 convention set a high bar, but plans are already underway for next year’s event, scheduled for June 21-24, 2026, at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. Dealers, vendors and industry partners are encouraged to save the date for another unforgettable gathering.
The 2025 Tri-State Convention proved once again why it’s a can’t-miss event for the automotive industry in Alabama, Mississippi and Tennessee. With its blend of cutting-edge insights, inspiring stories and unparalleled networking, this year’s event will be remembered as a milestone in the region’s automotive community.
