DENVER, COLO. – After a brief hiatus from the national stage, David Adkins is heading to the Mile High City this June. The president of the Ohio Independent Automobile Dealers Association (OIADA) and second-generation owner of Wilmington Auto Center is set to return to the NIADA Convention and Expo, eager to bridge the gap created by years of absence.
“There’s a lot of people I’ve not seen in a long time. I’m looking forward to reconnecting,” Adkins said.
A High-Octane Welcome
Adkins’ return will kick off with an adrenaline rush. He was named one of the winners of the NIADA Rocky Mountain ATV Adventure, an exclusive excursion sponsored by AutoZone and ALLDATA. The ride, scheduled for June 21, offers a unique networking opportunity for early registrants to bond before the official convention doors open.
Adkins, whose Wilmington Auto Center has been an Ohio staple since 1976, secured his spot by registering early for the event, which runs from June 21–24 at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center.
Education and Innovation
Beyond the social reconnection, Adkins is returning for the industry-leading insights that have defined the NIADA experience.
“I’ve enjoyed meeting all the vendors and the education sessions have always been very good,” Adkins noted.
This year’s lineup is particularly robust, featuring more than 50 hours of education. The curriculum is designed to help independent dealers navigate a rapidly shifting market, with sessions covering:
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Advanced AI implementation
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Inventory management strategies
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Marketing and sales optimization
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Collections and compliance
Early-Bird Deadlines Approaching
For dealers looking to join Adkins in Denver, the clock is ticking on significant savings. Early-bird registration continues through May 20, allowing dealers to save $200 on their pass.
Additionally, the special NIADA hotel rate of $249 per night (plus resort fees and taxes) at the Gaylord Rockies is available only until May 20 or until the room block sells out. Two additional drawings for special events will be held for those who register before the early-bird deadline.
Dealers can register and view the full education schedule at niada.com/convention.
