Senior automotive leaders from Pinewood.AI, Kia, JudgeService, Grant Thornton and Auto Trader are set to speak at the National Franchised Dealers Association’s Driving Automotive 2025 conference, which takes place at Central Hall Westminster, London, on 1st May.
This year’s conference, themed Driving Profits and Unlocking High Gear Success, will explore the challenges and opportunities facing franchised dealers through change management, artificial intelligence and workforce development.
Bill Berman, CEO of Pinewood.AI and former AutoNation and Pendragon boss, will headline the agenda with insights on adapting to market shifts in 2025 and beyond. Paul Philpott, president and CEO of Kia UK, the top-performing brand in the NFDA’s most recent Dealer Attitude Survey, will discuss strategies for strengthening partnerships between OEMs and retailers.
Neil Addley, managing director of JudgeService, will present new findings from the company’s State of the Nation consumer research. Owen Edwards, head of automotive at Grant Thornton, will offer economic analysis on inflation, tariffs and the rise of Chinese brands in the UK market.
Auto Trader’s Marc Palmer and Bex Kennett will provide marketplace intelligence, while AI consultant Duncan Anderson will assess how artificial intelligence can be practically deployed by car retailers.
Sue Robinson, chief executive of the NFDA, said: “This year’s Driving Automotive conference will explore the big themes impacting franchised car dealers and how technology and people can drive profitability. Following the success of last year’s sold-out event, this year’s conference is set to be our biggest yet with our speakers sharing their thoughts and insights on how dealers can prepare for change.”
Neil Addley added: “We’re delighted to be collaborating once again with the NFDA for this year’s Driving Automotive and look forward to welcoming colleagues from across the sector.”
