December 01, 2023
Wholesale: Auction News (52)
Auction Academy’s Class 7 Graduates
Staff Writer
October 16, 2023
As the industry convened last month at the 2023 NAAA World Remarketing Convention in Chicago, Auction Academy’s 7th Class Group completed the final session of its two-year curriculum, capped by a graduation ceremony held in conjunction with the NAAA convention. Founded in 2012, Auction Academy has marked the graduation of over 135 students from its professional training program, which was created by industry consulting/advisory firm TPC Management. In addition, 100 people from the remarketing industry have participated in the Academy’s one-day Seminar Series programs.
Auction Academy’s graduating class arrived in Chicago a day early for a special event hosted by long-time Academy sponsor NextGear Capital, whose own Danny McNelis is one of the Class 7 graduates. The group enjoyed an iconic Sunday afternoon of baseball, as the Chicago Cubs played at Wrigley Field.
On Monday, the group began its final session with a visit to America’s Auto Auction – Chicago, where General Manager Larry Hero hosted a tour of the facility and led discussions on auction processes. The group then met in the classroom for presentations by Pierre Pons of TPC Management, Tony Long of American Recovery Association, Cody Boswell of Missouri Auto Auction, and David Pendergraff of McConkey Auction Group. Concluding the session was a Panel Discussion (Getting the most out of a Conference) led by Auction Academy Alumni: Michael L. Waseity, Jr. (Class 5, Akron Auto Auction); Jeanine Cunningham (Class 4, BSC America, Women in Remarketing Honoree in 2023) and Jacob Warren (Class 5 – Louisiana’s 1st Choice Auto Auction).
On Tuesday morning of Convention Week, Class Group 7 were the invited guests of the Independent Auction Group (IAG) at its business meeting. There, the graduating class were acknowledged for their accomplishment and presented with plaques by IAG’s leadership team: Dave Blake, the incoming Executive Director; Lynn Weaver, former Executive Director and Charlotte Pyle, Chairman.
“We’re so pleased to mark the graduation of yet another group of outstanding Auction Academy students,” said Penny Wanna, Auction Academy President. “They’ve all worked hard and contributed so much during their two years of rigorous training, and they take their places among the industry’s leaders who have the knowledge, experience, and commitment to maintain the health and strength of the industry.”
Wanna notes that Class Group 7 includes 30 students from 17 states across the country, who represent a variety of disciplines within the automotive industry, including auction operations, floorplan and finance, technology and remarketing.
The highlight of convention week was the Class 7 Graduation Ceremony, which was followed by a gala dinner and celebration. More than 150 guests attended the event to congratulate the graduating class, including the executive directors of the industry’s major associations: Paul Lipps of NAAA, Mark Coleman of IARA, and Dave Blake of IAG.
Throughout this year’s NAAA convention, the group marked the participation of a number of Auction Academy staff and graduates. Of special note were Charlie Vogelheim, a member of Auction Academy’s faculty who presided as Master of Ceremonies; and Eric Autenrieth, CEO of the Stanley/Autenrieth Group and himself an Auction Academy alum, who was the Keynote Speaker at the Graduation Dinner and was inducted the next evening as President of the National Auto Auction Association.
“It has been a pleasure for all of us involved in Auction Academy to work with Class Group 7 over the course of the two-year program, and we extend our heartiest congratulations on their graduation,” said Pierre Pons, CEO of TPC Management Company. “From the beginning we have been impressed with their skill and their devotion, and we know that the members of the graduating class will positively impact both their own companies and the remarketing industry at large.”
“We also want to acknowledge the support Auction Academy receives from industry partners who have been critical to the program’s success. As they collaborate with us on industry initiatives, participate in training and facilitate the tours, they bring a level of expertise to the classroom and share insights in many areas of the industry that is invaluable to Auction Academy students. Jiles Wanna is an essential member of our team whose industry connections and introductions lend to our evolving and progressive curriculum. We are also pleased to welcome our newest faculty member: this year’s NAAA Pioneer Award Winner, John Poteet, former owner/operator of Louisiana’s First Choice Auto Auction.”
Las Vegas Announces Inaugural Grand Prix Auction
Staff Writer
September 21, 2023
Wynn Las Vegas and RM Sotheby’s, the renowned global leader in collector car auctions, will hold the official auction of the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix at 4 p.m. Nov. 17. Together, they will host an exclusive auction at the resort’s Awakening Theater, bringing the best and most iconic goods to attendees.
Guests can expect a strong collection of offerings, including cars from some of motorsports’ true legends, sports memorabilia, and other luxury goods.
The theater’s 360-degree experience features a multi-level prismatic stage and custom sound system. The production of the auction will parallel the theater’s technological advancements and splendor.
“The official auction of the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix will bring together the worlds of automobiles, hospitality, and sports, showcasing the world’s most coveted cars along with iconic memorabilia,” said Bryon Madsen, president of RM Sotheby’s. “It is poised to be the ‘must-attend’ motorsport and luxury event of the weekend, second only to the race itself.”
AMS Partners with Dealers Auction Xchange of Tampa Bay
Staff Writer
September 19, 2023
Auction Management Solutions recently formed a partnership with Dealers Auction Xchange of Tampa Bay for business development. AMS provides consulting services to the automotive industry, which includes independent auto auctions.
Robbie Boston, President of DAX commented, “We are very excited to be a part of the AMS group of independent auctions. Our auction has grown over the last few years due to a very strong dealer base, and now we wish to grow our commercial business, and we knew that AMS was the right partner for us.”
Tom Stewart, President, and Founder of AMS added, “We have seen a need in Florida for an auction that can service commercial account business and we believe the DAX team is the right partner. With their years of experience and knowledge in the wholesale automotive space, along with a great facility, we feel very confident in the future success of the auction.”
Auction Management Solutions offers superior service and guidance to their clients with a team that offers more than 50 years of experience in the wholesale auto industry. The focus is not just on business development, but on the entire auction process and profitability.
Dealers Auction Xchange of Tampa Bay is located in Zephyrhills, Florida, which is just outside of Tampa, Florida. Currently DAX operates on more than 200 acres, offering more than 700 units weekly, across 4 auction lanes.
AFC Names New Canadian Regional Director
Staff Writer
August 21, 2023
AFC, a subsidiary of Openlane, Inc., announced in June the appointment of Robert Staffieri as Regional Director of Canada. In this role, Staffieri will be responsible for overseeing AFC’s field operations in Canada, including sales, business development and customer success.
“Robert is a skilled operator with a proven track record within automotive finance, bringing more than 20 years of industry experience spanning sales, customer service, finance and business development,” said Will Mitchell, chief operating officer of AFC. “Robert’s leadership will help ensure we continue to serve Canada’s independent dealers effectively as the nation’s number one floorplan provider. We are thrilled to add his strategic insights and collaborative spirit to our management team.”
As Regional Director of Canada for AFC, Staffieri will leverage his deep industry experience and relationships to lead the teams at AFC’s 10 Canadian branches in providing industry-leading, flexible financing solutions to automotive dealers across Canada. Prior to joining AFC, Staffieri held management positions of progressive responsibility and scope with BMW Group Canada, Kia Canada and Mercedes-Benz Financial Services Canada.
“I’m delighted to join the AFC team to expand our already strong in-person, local market presence and operational scope across Canada,” said Robert Staffieri, Regional Director of Canada for AFC. “Building on AFC’s unparalleled dedication to customers, together we’ll continue providing independent dealers with the products, tools and services they need to achieve their goals.”
Tallahassee Auto Auction Hires New GM
Staff Writer
August 09, 2023
Jeremy Cunningham has been named general manager at Tallahassee Auction, one of two ServNet auctions operated by BSC America. In making the announcement, BSC President R. Charles Nichols noted that Cunningham brings more than twenty years of industry experience to Tallahassee, with skills gained in both the auto auction and fleet/lease/repo arenas.
“He has a keen understanding of the vehicle remarketing process, great expertise in auction operations, and strong customer relationships developed over his years in the industry. We have every confidence that he’ll manage the auction with a sure hand and will oversee its continued success,” Nichols said.
Cunningham began his auction career in 1998 as a condition report writer before moving on as an auction e-commerce specialist and I/T manager. He spent a decade as fleet/lease operations supervisor before moving to the consignor side of the industry, working as Auction Field Representative for PAR North America, Regional Auction Manager for Exeter Finance and Vehicle Remarketing Senior Associate for Capital One Finance.
“I am excited to step into the role of General Manager at Tallahassee Auto Auction,” said Cunningham. “BSC America is one of the industry’s leaders, and I am honored to be a part of such a strong organization.”
Cunningham joins the team at Tallahassee as the auction embarks on a number of infrastructure upgrades to accommodate current and future growth. Beginning with repaving of large portions of the lot and dealer parking areas, the auction is also planning a major remodel of the offices and restrooms. In the near future, the opening of a fourth auction lane is planned, along with making use of additional properties that surround the auction.
RM Sotheby’s, a private sales expert and auctioneer of premium collectibles, announced it will bring an auction hosted at Sotheby’s global New York headquarters during its December Luxury Week sale series. This fourth iteration of the company’s New York sale will celebrate the cutting edge of automotive design, presenting an expertly curated roster of history’s most iconic automobiles from the world’s most admired marques.
An automotive icon in the world of film and pertinent to the location of the upcoming New York sale is one of the two 1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary editions which starred in Martin Scorsese’s 2013 film The Wolf of Wall Street. Sharing the screen with Leonardo DiCaprio, the Bianco Polo over Bianco Countach represented an ultimate acquisition for Jordan Belfort, the film’s real-life financial “Wolf,” as it did for many in the late 1980s. One of the most memorable vehicles in modern film history—having transcended the boundaries of its own automotive legacy and embraced the realm of timeless cinematic artistry—is made rarer still, with only 12 believed to have been made in this specification (Estimate: $1,500,000 - $2,000,000).
Hinchman Joins Las Vegas Auction
Staff Writer
August 01, 2023
America’s Auto Auction Las Vegas, previously known as DAA Las Vegas, is proud to announce that Jay Hinchman is stepping into the role of General Manager, effective immediately.
Hinchman’s reputation is firmly rooted in over 25 years of experience in the automotive industry. He began as a client of the auctions with Bank of America Auto Group in Long Island, N.Y., where he served as the VP of Remarketing. Hinchman later took on leadership responsibilities at World Omni Financial Corp./Southeast Toyota Finance. In 2008, Hinchman joined KAR and soon took on the role of general manager at ADESA New Jersey and later ADESA Las Vegas. Hinchman advanced into several leadership positions, serving as regional Vice President of their Midwest and West coast auction operations. Most recently, he held the position of president at HighTech Locksmiths.
“I am honored to take on the role of General Manager at America’s Auto Auction Las Vegas,” Hinchman said. “I look forward to building on the strong foundation already in place and driving the company’s continued growth and success.”
Chuck Tapp, Chief Executive Officer, said Hinchman’s “deep industry experience and proven leadership capabilities make him an excellent fit for the role of general manager.”
Auction Academy Launching Class 8
Staff Writer
August 01, 2023
Enrollment for the Auction Academy’s newest class group – Class 8 – is complete. Now in its 12th year, Auction Academy is a leadership training program for professionals in the vehicle remarketing industry. It will launch Class 8 with a three-day meeting, Aug. 17-19, in its home base of Nashville, Tenn.
“We are excited to meet in Nashville to launch our next group of 30 students on their two-year journey,” said Penny Wanna, Academy President, “The curriculum includes quarterly meetings, alternating with digital/zoom sessions. Both formats include training led by experts in the remarketing field from all over the country.”
Class 8’s schedule in August leads off with a tour of the Nissan Manufacturing Plant, followed by the group’s opening session at Manheim’s Nashville Auto Auction. The group will participate in training sessions led by Charlie Vogelheim of Auction Academy, Eric Stevens of Littler Labor & Employment Law Solutions, Jeff Thomas and Rich Hardin of OVE, Dave Blake of DAA Seattle, and Lisa Franz of Big Valley Auto Auction.
“We are delighted to return to Manheim Nashville to begin the program for our newest Class Group,” said Academy co-founder and CEO Pierre Pons. “Longtime General Manager Sam Chapel will host the group and lead them on a tour of a very impressive facility as he introduces them to this auction’s top-notch team.”
Auction Academy will mark a first with the enrollment of a commercial consignor in Class Group 8: Reshard Taylor, who has been in the Auto Finance Servicing industry since 2007. He started with PAR North America, based in Indianapolis, Ind., where he held various roles within repo and remarketing operations. Before joining Exeter Finance in 2019 as a regional auction Manager, Reshard held a similar role with Santander Consumer USA/Chrysler Capital. 
“Both Brent Huisman and his colleague Stephanie Compton, VP of Asset Remarketing at Exeter Finance, have been great supporters of Auction Academy for many years,” Wanna said. “It is wonderful to see the evidence of their commitment in the enrollment of the first Commercial Consignor in our next Class Group.”
Pons also praised Exeter and its leaders.
“Over the years I have heard many consignors refer to the auctions as partners,” added Pons. “But Exeter Finance under Brent and Stephanie’s leadership really exemplifies its commitment to that industry relationship.”
Barile Joins Mid Kansas Auto Auction
Staff Writer
July 29, 2023
Earlier this month, automotive industry veteran Chris Barile joined the team at Mid Kansas Auto Auction in Wichita, Kan., as the new sales manager.
Barile moved to Wichita after previously living in Murfreesboro, Tenn.
“We’re thrilled to add Chris to our leadership staff,” says Trevor Ottley, general manager of Mid Kansas Auto Auction. “He has a great resume and fantastic work experience, but he’s joining our team because he sees what we’re trying to do here at Mid Kansas and he’s excited to keep building the business.”
Barile has over 18 years of experience in the automotive industry and over 14 years in management. He will oversee the sales, fleet lease, and internet sales departments.
"I consider myself extremely blessed to be a part of the Mid Kansas Auto Auction family," Barile said. "I’ve been able to meet a number of dealers now and I’m excited to build those relationships and continue to meet new clients as well."
Barile served in the United States Air Force and is originally from Ocean City, N.J. He has four daughters.
Mid Kansas Auto Auction is a family-owned, dealers-only auction with sales every Wednesday available in-person or online.
Museum Car Collection Offered for Sale
Staff Writer
July 13, 2023
Hagerty, Inc., an automotive lifestyle brand and specialty insurance provider alongside Broad Arrow Auctions, announced the Hendricks Collection at the Gateway Museum is now available online through Hagerty Marketplace, a trusted, easy-to-use platform to buy and sell automobiles. The lots will close between July 31 and August 11, with 2-3 cars ending each weekday during that period.
The collection is split in half with approximately 25 being sold online as presented here and an additional 25 being offered at the Broad Arrow Monterey Jet Center Auction this August 17-18.
The Hendricks Collection comprises over 50 motor cars in total from the early 1900s through today with each car inspected and cataloged by a Broad Arrow specialist on behalf of Hagerty Marketplace. Offered on behalf of the Hendricks Collection at the Gateway Auto Museum, which is devoted to understanding, and celebrating, the history, design and social impact of the American automobile.
A significant highlight of the collection is the 2005 Ford GT, equipped with all four options and finished in Mark IV Red with white racing stripes. Showing just over 8,200 miles from new it is estimated at $250,000 - $300,000.
Another highlight is the 1957 Pontiac Bonneville Convertible, finished in Kenya Ivory and Bonneville Red and a red and white leather interior accented by a white power-operated Pinpoint convertible top with a new boot. Powered by a 347 cu-in overhead-valve V8 rated at 310 horsepower with a three-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. Representing the first year of Bonneville production and the most well-equipped Pontiac on offer in 1957, this example is estimated at $125,000-$150,000.
A low-mileage, restored 1932 Auburn 8-100A Custom Speedster, estimated at $90,000-$110,000, finished in Burgundy with red accents over a Tan leather interior complete with Wilton wool carpets. Powered by an eight-cylinder Lycoming engine, this example has been restored in the style of an Auburn Boattail Speedster.
A well-restored 1956 DeSoto Adventurer Hardtop, finished in two-tone Jet Black with Adventurer Gold over a color-coordinated interior and powered by a specially modified, 341 cu-in Hemi V8 advertised with 315 horsepower. This DeSoto is one of 996 flagship Adventurer models built for model year 1956 and is estimated at $75,000-$100,000.
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Montway Partners with Auction Edge
Staff Writer
July 11, 2023
Montway Auto Transport has announced that transportation ordering for auction purchases is now accessible via EDGE Pipeline. In partnership with Auction Edge, a digital remarketing technology provider, this streamlined “one-click” solution for quick and secure vehicle transport has been rolled out to select auctions within the platform. This collaboration will enable dealers to efficiently manage their inventory in response to growing consumer demand for pre-owned vehicles.
Montway’s transportation ordering solution is a key part of improving the user experience on EDGE Pipeline. With 215 auctions managing over 4 million vehicles each year, Montway’s solution has the potential to significantly improve efficiency, save time and enhance the post-sale experience for dealers on Pipeline. Montway meets the needs of EDGE Pipeline users by offering a convenient pay-after-delivery option.
“Car dealers are changing their used-vehicle acquisition practices, increasing online auction transactions,” said Mike Trudeau, executive vice president of business development at Montway Auto Transport. “Launching this in-platform transportation ordering feature means dealers can now buy from anywhere in the country with confidence, knowing their purchases will be quickly and safely transported.”
By leveraging Montway’s technology and the brand’s nearly two decades of experience in the dealership and auction auto transportation spaces, EDGE Pipeline will offer a full service transportation management system for Pipeline users who buy from independent auctions.
Montway’s technology includes full transit visibility and real-time tracking after an order has been booked, enabling better inventory management and improving customer satisfaction. Additionally, EDGE Pipeline users can leverage Montway’s technology to get vehicles shipped from any auction across the country, expanding car buying opportunities.
Dealers Auto Auction Promotes Diedrich
Staff Writer
July 11, 2023
David Diedrich has been promoted to chief client officer at Dealers Auto Auction.
Diedrich joined DAAG in January of 2020 as the Director of National Sales with a subsequent promotion to vice president of National Sales and Operations. Since joining DAAG, Diedrich has been involved in both operations and national sales, being an integral part of the expansion of DAAG market presence.
“Joining DAAG when COVID hit prompted a growth opportunity from the dealers and commercial clients, since that time, we have not stopped growing,” Diedrich said. “We are working to support the auctions to meet the demands the growth has presented. Going forward we are executing our plan for expansion of our services and auctions.”
Diedrich has been in the auction industry for thirty plus years, including stints at ADT, ADESA and Insurance Auctions. He is also a licensed auctioneer.
“David joining the team in January 2020 couldn’t have been more timely,” said David Andrews, founder and CEO. “He has been instrumental in addressing many of the challenges in the ever-changing auto industry as it relates to auctions wholly.”
Dealers Auto Auction Group runs eleven auctions in the Southeastern United States with locations in Atlanta, Ga., Cincinnati, Ohio, Columbia, S.C., Jackson, Miss., Little Rock, Ark.; Memphis, Tenn.; Mobile, Ala.; Huntsville, Ala.; Murfreesboro, Tenn.; Johnson City, Tenn.; and Chattanooga, Tenn.
Dealers Auto Auction Group also offers a robust menu of digital venues that includes DAAG Marketplace and Simulcast.
McConkey Auction Group Launches Alaska Auction
Staff Writer
July 07, 2023
MAG Alaska of Anchorage is the new hybrid wholesale auction located on four acres with a 300-unit consignment lot, a test track, and vehicle inspection services, McConkey Auction Group announced. Dealers are invited to preview, drive, bid on, and buy consigned units on-site in the auction’s dealer lounge or remotely. Vehicles are offered for sale on MAG Now, Powered by EBlock. The new location further solidifies McConkey Auction Group’s commitment to dealers in the Northwestern U.S. market.
“MAG Alaska opened with a strong sale on June 28th and we couldn’t be more excited,” said Andy Sellers, general manager. “Dealers who weren’t familiar with the EBlock platform participated in demos beforehand, we had a solid offering of vehicles, and buyers stepped up, converting nearly 60%,” he added. Dealers from Anchorage, Fairbanks, Wasilla, Kenai, and other areas across the region participated in the inaugural sale.
“We are so happy to have MAG here in Alaska,” said Joe McArthur of Fairbanks Nissan. He added, “A dealer-focused wholesale auction group with proven processes is exactly what our community needs!”
MAG Alaska’s digital sales on MAG Now, powered by EBlock will take place every Wednesday at noon Alaska Time.
America’s Group Announces Promotions
Staff Writer
July 05, 2023
Effective immediately, Keith Fetz will take on the role of executive director of digital strategy at America’s Group, while Sawyer Walker and Melissa Miller have been promoted to executive director, national sales; and executive director, marketing, respectively.
America’s Group consists of America’s Auto Auction and AXLE Funding.
All three executives have been with the company for numerous years, and their experience and expertise will be invaluable in driving growth.
Fetz will oversee the company’s digital initiatives and help drive growth in this critical area.
“I am honored and excited about the opportunity to lead the America’s digital sales team,” said Fetz. “This industry continues to rapidly evolve, and digital sales have become incre
