The National Auto Auction Association has acquired the World Automobile Auctioneers Championship (WAAC). The announcement was made during the 2022 WAAC event held in Des Moines, Iowa. 

NAAA acquired the WAAC from renowned auctioneer Paul Behr, who has owned the event since 2005. The prestigious competition draws top auctioneers from around the country and provides an opportunity to celebrate the very best of automobile auctioneering. NAAA represents more than 340 auto auction members and 140 associate members in North America. 

“NAAA understands how important auctioneers and ring people are to our member auctions and the work they put in to ensure successful sales,” said NAAA President R. Charles Nichols. “I would like to thank NAAA’s Executive Officers and Board of Directors for their support and recognition.”

NAAA also thanked Paul Behr for his outstanding leadership of the WAAC for the last 17 years. Under his guidance, the event has become widely recognized for bringing auctioneers together every year for spirited competition and fellowship.

“This premier event highlights the importance of the auctioneer profession every year,” said NAAA CEO Tricia Heon. “This is an exciting partnership for NAAA and aligns with the goals of our Workforce Initiative to assist our industry in recruiting skilled and talented employees.”

Details about the 2023 World Automobile Auctioneers Championship will be released in the future.