New Delhi, September 11, 2024 – The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) marked a significant milestone in India’s automotive sector with the conclusion of the 6th Auto Retail Conclave. The event, themed “Elevating Customer & Revitalising Dealer Synergy,” drew over 500 participants, including industry leaders, policymakers, and distinguished government officials. The focus of the conclave was to enhance customer experience while fostering stronger relationships between automobile manufacturers and dealers—crucial for sustaining growth in an evolving market.
A key highlight of the conclave was the leadership transition within FADA, as C.S. Vigneshwar was appointed the 37th President of the association, assuming leadership at a time of rapid change and innovation in the auto industry.
Inauguration by Government Luminaries
The event was inaugurated by Chief Guest Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Hon’ble Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, who addressed the gathering virtually, praising FADA’s role in advancing India’s auto sector. Joining him were Union Ministers Bhupender Yadav, Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, and H.D. Kumaraswamy, Minister of Heavy Industries, as well as Dr. V. Anantha Nageswaran, Chief Economic Adviser, Ministry of Finance.
In his opening remarks, Gadkari commended FADA’s 60-year journey, stating, “With over 30,000 dealerships and more than 5 million people employed, FADA has been an instrumental force in regional development and economic resilience. Its leadership in policy reform, road safety, and green mobility aligns perfectly with our vision for a sustainable automotive industry.” He emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the sector as it embraces green technologies and customer-centric innovations.
Kumaraswamy lauded FADA for its vital role in shaping India’s automotive landscape, noting the association’s contributions to employment and the GDP. He further emphasized FADA’s alignment with the government’s push for electric vehicles through the FAME II initiative, stressing the importance of fostering a green and forward-thinking automotive ecosystem.
FADA’s Leadership Vision and Industry Challenges
In his inaugural address, newly appointed FADA President, C.S. Vigneshwar, articulated his vision for the future of India’s auto retail sector. “It is a profound honor to lead this esteemed organization at such a pivotal time,” he said, outlining two key pillars for the industry’s future: passion and intent. “Our immediate priorities will include pushing for the Retail Protection Act and the Model Dealer Agreement, both of which are essential for the long-term stability of our industry.”
The President highlighted the importance of partnerships—with OEMs, financiers, and other stakeholders—and expressed optimism about the future. He stressed that strengthening these relationships would be essential to capitalizing on new market opportunities, improving customer experiences, and sustaining dealership growth.
Government Collaboration: Driving Policy for Auto Growth
The Conclave provided a platform for critical discussions on policy and regulation, featuring a special session on “Collaborating on Government Policies” with speakers such as Dr. Hanif Qureshi, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Heavy Industries, and Mahmood Ahmed, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport & Highways. Moderated by FADA Secretary Sai Giridhar, this session highlighted how government policies would shape the sector’s future, particularly in terms of environmental sustainability and electric vehicle adoption.
Bhupender Yadav, Hon’ble Minister for Environment, emphasized the critical balance between economic growth and environmental responsibility. “As we look ahead, it is essential that the auto industry plays a central role in reducing emissions. FADA’s initiative to plant a tree for every vehicle sold sets a powerful example of environmental stewardship,” he said, urging dealers to actively embrace zero-emission vehicles.
New Initiatives Unveiled: Innovation, Research, and Sustainability
The Conclave saw the launch of FADA’s annual ‘FADA Digest 2024’ and a new corporate video, each of which presented insights into the future of India’s automotive sector. The FADA Digest offered a forward-looking perspective on trends, technologies, and policies, alongside an analysis of the association’s key initiatives for the coming year. It also provided a detailed breakdown of FADA’s advocacy for dealer-friendly regulations, improved operational efficiency, and enhanced customer experiences.
One of the most significant contributions to the event was the presentation of the Customer Experience Index Study 2024 by Frost & Sullivan, assessing customer satisfaction across India’s auto sector. With over 8,500 participants from urban and rural areas, this extensive study revealed insights into the expectations of today’s car buyers, helping dealers to refine their strategies for superior service.
The Dealer Satisfaction Study 2024 was another focal point, featuring an in-depth analysis of dealer satisfaction across various vehicle segments. Prominent executives from Tata Motors, Hero MotoCorp, Kia, and others shared insights on optimizing dealer performance and exploring emerging opportunities in the post-pandemic market.
Honoring Excellence: Awards and Recognition
To celebrate excellence in the industry, the Conclave included a special awards ceremony. The prestigious Dealer Satisfaction Study 2024 Awards recognized top performers in customer service and dealership operations. Additional awards included the Golden Dealership Award and the Customer Experience Index Study 2024 Award, honoring those who had made significant contributions to the growth and success of the Indian auto retail industry.
A Sustainable Future: FADA’s Green Initiatives
Continuing its push towards a greener future, FADA signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with DigiELV and Meta Materials Circular Markets (MMCM) to promote sustainable practices, particularly in managing end-of-life vehicles. This MoU aims to further the use of digital solutions to encourage responsible vehicle disposal and recycling.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
As the 6th Auto Retail Conclave concluded, FADA’s leadership expressed optimism for the future of the Indian auto sector. The event provided a comprehensive view of the challenges ahead, from increasing customer demands to navigating evolving government policies. Yet, the consensus was clear—by embracing innovation, deepening collaboration, and prioritizing sustainability, India’s auto dealers and manufacturers are well-positioned to drive the future of mobility.
With a clear mandate to protect dealer interests, improve customer satisfaction, and foster environmental stewardship, FADA’s 6th Auto Retail Conclave has set the stage for an exciting new chapter in India’s automotive journey.
