2026 Pub. 4 Issue 1

As an automotive dealer, understanding the true value of your business isn’t just about knowing what it’s worth today; it’s about timing the decisions that can define your future. Whether you are thinking about selling, planning for growth or exploring new business ventures, a professional valuation can provide the clarity and insights necessary to make informed, strategic decisions.

Tens of thousands of automotive retail professionals converged on Las Vegas for NADA Show 2026, reaffirming the event’s reputation as the premier annual conference and expo for the franchised auto industry. This year’s show carried a high-octane “Formula One” theme, delivering a fast-paced, high-energy experience complete with a new weekday schedule and a record-breaking 600-plus exhibitors spread across 3.2 million square feet of exhibit space.

For the second consecutive year, the Mississippi Automobile Dealers Association Self Insurers Fund (MADA SIF) Board of Trustees has approved a $1 million dividend for participating dealerships, along with a rate reduction of 5.8%. Both the dividend and the reduced rates will take effect on April 1, 2026.

Forty years in business is no small feat, especially in an industry that is constantly changing. But for Dwayne Blackmon Chevrolet, that longevity is a testament to the family leadership, community roots and people-first philosophy that has guided the dealership since 1985.

Tyler’s story reflects a lifetime spent in the automotive industry, grounded in family values, hard work and a commitment to serving both customers and employees with integrity. In our conversation, he shared insights into his early beginnings in the dealership, the legacy his family has built and his vision for the future of their growing organization.

One of the biggest honors a Mississippi automobile dealer can receive is to be nominated for the TIME Dealer of the Year award, and this year’s nominee is Jonathan Allen, dealer principal of J. Allen Toyota in Gulfport. He is also the owner of J. Allen Ford and J. Allen Mazda. Allen was recognized for this accomplishment during the 109th annual NADA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Feb. 5, 2026.

The Mississippi Constitution requires the legislature to convene on the first Tuesday after the first Monday of each January. Legislators come to Jackson prepared to work on legislation that they consider important for our state. A lot of the legislation introduced and considered has a direct impact on Mississippi’s automotive franchised dealers, and MADA is committed to having a strong voice on legislation matters.