April 30, 2025
Wholesale: Auction News (144)
Collector Car Auction Draws $3.9 Million
Staff Writer
June 12, 2024
Sullivan Auctioneers Collector Car Division celebrated its 100% No Reserve Inaugural Spring online auction of collectible vehicles held last month in Carthage, Ill.
The top-selling vehicle of the event was a 1969 Chevrolet YENKO/SC Camaro finished in LeMans Blue, one of only 201 produced, which achieved an impressive sale price of $291,775. The auction yielded $3.9M in total vehicle sales and received a significant response from car enthusiasts.
“While the Collector Car sector is experiencing a correction to pre-pandemic levels, we saw no evidence of this during our inaugural spring car auction. The strength of our no-reserve collector car auctions overall is truly exceptional,” indicated Mark Stock, CEO of BigIron Auctions. “We presented a diverse and high-quality docket, including some exceptionally rare pieces that generated attention and resulting sales through the BigIron auction platform. This successful auction further attests that selling without a reserve is unquestionably the most effective method to maximize return.”
The top five vehicles that commanded significant attention and bidding activity were as follows:
- 1969 Chevrolet Yenko/SC Camaro: $291,775
- 1963 Chevrolet Split Window Coupe: $143,275
- 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible: $95,425
- 1967 Pontiac GTO Convertible: $73,701
- 1977 Ford Bronco: $68,750
Manheim, TR Group Establish New Auction
Staff Writer
June 11, 2024
With a commitment to meeting the needs of local dealers and establishing auction operations in underserved markets, Manheim has partnered with TR Group to establish 4 Star Auto Auction in Valley, Ala. Built from the ground up, the new location sits on nearly 22 acres and will operate two auction lanes with the ability to expand to three lanes, as needed.
The $4.2 million facility leverages Manheim’s technology, expertise and staffing, along with the services dealers rely on such as financing, condition reports and assurance solutions. The first sale was held on May 29 and attracted 189 dealers in-lane and online. Of the 85 vehicles offered, nearly half were sold.
“When Manheim approached me about partnering on this new location, I thought it was a great opportunity,” said Terry Ratliff, owner and principal of Opelika, Alabama-based TR Group. “The Manheim brand is synonymous with quality, something I’ve spent 20 years building at TR Group, so the partnership was a natural fit.”
Manheim’s mobile strategy was initially developed to offer independent and small franchise dealers more convenient ways to buy and sell vehicles. The Valley auction joins Manheim Birmingham to give the wholesale auto auction company two operating locations in Alabama.
“Since we began offering mobile auctions in 2014, we have learned a lot,” said Doug Kramer, Market Center leader for Manheim’s southeast region. “In addition to bringing convenient and needed inventory to dealers where they live and work, mobile auctions provide quality inventory and services, along with historically solid conversion rates, to help our dealers grow their business.”
4 Star Auto Auction is planning a grand opening sale event on July 24.
ServNet Adds Two Auction Members
Staff Writer
June 06, 2024
Oklahoma Auto Exchange and Big Valley Auto Auction in Texas have joined ServNet, announced Ryan Clark, the group’s president.
The two independent auctions command key locations in the Southwest: Big Valley Auto Auction in Donna, Texas; and Oklahoma Auto Exchange in Oklahoma City, Okla.
“ServNet is happy to announce the addition of Oklahoma Auto Exchange and Big Valley Auto Auction to our roster of the country’s premier independent auctions,” said Clark. “Both these auctions have established themselves as key forces in their market areas, offering top-quality auction services in outstanding auction facilities. We have long admired both of these family-owned and operated business for their dedication to the industry and their culture of customer service. Both auctions will be great assets to ServNet, and we are pleased to include them in the ServNet family.”
Big Valley Auto Auction is owned by the father/daughter team of Bernard Watson and Lisa Franz, who founded the facility in 2008 to serve Texas’s Rio Grande Valley. The operation has grown to include new and used car dealers from throughout the region, along with fleet/lease and repo accounts. In 2023, the auction was named Exeter’s Auction of Excellence. Situated on 30 acres, Big Valley Auto Auction runs over 500 vehicles on four lanes every Thursday at 9:30 am, with both in-lane and online selling. The facility includes detail and reconditioning facilities, and full transportation services.
“We are both honored and excited to count ourselves among the ServNet Auctions,” said Franz, who serves as the auction’s General Manager. “We admire the other auctions in the group and know them to be the best in the country. We are eager to learn from them, as well as to contribute our understanding of the market and our sense of hospitality and customer service.”
Oklahoma Auto Exchange is a multi-generational family business owned by Mike Clopton and his son, Kyle Clopton. Established in 2004, Oklahoma Auto Exchange offers over 650 vehicles from new and used car dealers and commercial accounts every Wednesday on four auction lanes. The facility is unique to the region in that it is completely enclosed to protect vehicles and customers from Oklahoma’s unpredictable weather. The physical footprint includes 125,000 square feet of indoor storage and auction space, situated on 18 acres of land. The auction has a six-bay detail and reconditioning shop, offers light mechanical services and in-house transportation, and includes a 2,500 square foot dealers’ lounge.
“We’ve known ServNet to be the Gold Standard of independent auctions, and we’re thrilled to join their ranks,” said Kyle Clopton, the auction’s general manager. “It’s an exciting move for us to grow our business in relationship with the other ServNet auctions owners, who are among the most respected and knowledgeable people in the industry.”
Hemmings Sponsors Hip-Hop Collector Car Show
Staff Writer
May 21, 2024
Hemmings and Motoring Culture Club (MC2) are holding “UpShift,” an event that combines the passion for classic cars with the vibrant history of Hip-Hop. Scheduled for Aug. 15th at SandBox in Sand City, Calif., the event introduces an element of cultural celebration by bringing a fresh, inclusive moment to the traditional festivities while fostering a connection between classic cars and Hip-Hop.
UpShift is a collaborative initiative with MC2, a platform focused on curating the future of the car community. UpShift represents a significant milestone for Hemmings, promoting a more accessible classic car culture. This event not only celebrates the influence of Hip-Hop on classic car culture but also actively opens the doors to a broader and more diverse audience. By integrating this dynamic music genre with automotive history, UpShift seeks to create a welcoming environment that transcends traditional boundaries, inviting enthusiasts of all backgrounds to connect over shared passions. This commitment to inclusivity is at the heart of the companies’ missions, ensuring every participant feels a sense of belonging within the broader car community.
Event Highlights:
- Iconic Classic Cars: Attendees will enjoy a curated display of classic cars that have left a mark on Hip-Hop culture. Each car’s unique story will be shared, including their appearances in music videos and associations with Hip-Hop legends.
- Hip-Hop and Culture: The event will feature a live DJ blending genres from disco to classic Hip-Hop. The DJ will serve as the musical backdrop to the cars and evoke the spirit of the car culture synonymous with the 80s, 90s, and 2000s.
TPC Management Company announced it has been engaged by Expressway Auto Auction of Dansville, N.Y. to provide strategic consulting services as the company builds its market reach and expands its relationships among commercial and institutional clients.
Expressway Auto Auction was opened in 1967 by Richard C. Tracy on the site of a livestock market owned by Richard’s father, M. Harold Tracy. Expressway continues as a family-owned business, led by Richard’s sons Scott Tracy and Jeff Tracy, and his grandchildren: General Manager Kyle Tracy and Administrative Manager Lyndsey Tracy. Expressway Auto Auction holds a weekly sale on Tuesdays at 5:30, where dealers bid on vehicles running on five auction lanes.
“We are looking forward to an exciting future as we work with Pierre Pons, Jiles Wanna and the rest of the team at TPC Management,” said Kyle Tracy. “Their relationships within the remarketing community and their overall experience in the industry will be of tremendous benefit to us as we build our presence in the market.”
Pons, CEO of TPC Management Company, discussed the new partnership.
“The Tracy family has established Expressway Auto Auction as an important contributor to the local and regional economy as well as a major player in the auction business,” Pons said. “I was privileged to know of Richard Tracy in the early days of my own career in the auto auction industry, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with his family as they build on that legacy.”
“As fourth-generation owners, Kyle Tracy and Lyndsey Tracy exemplify the skill, commitment and enthusiasm that continues to strengthen the independent auction community. We hope to include them in Auction Academy in the future as well, knowing that they will have much to contribute to the next generation of auction leadership.” In addition to the main auction building, Expressway’s 24-acre auction complex includes a condition report center, reconditioning and mechanical shops, transportation department and a restaurant featuring home-cooked fare.
TJ Freije Wins Auctioneering Championship
Staff Writer
May 07, 2024
TJ Freije of Clayton, Ind., has been named the 2024 World Automobile Auctioneer Champion. Freije was crowned champion at the 2024 World Automobile Auctioneer Championship (WAAC), held April 26 at ADESA Indianapolis in Plainfield, Indiana.
The event drew more than 80 competitors from across the country. The prestigious competition highlights the importance of the auctioneer profession and provides an opportunity to celebrate the very best of automobile auctioneering.
TJ Freije is president of Freije & Freije Auctioneers, a fourth-generation auction company based in Clayton, Ind. Freije’s son, Tyce Freije, placed second in the 2024 WAAC.
“It was amazing to see the energy, enthusiasm, and dedication on display at the 2024 WAAC,” said ADESA Indianapolis General Manager Kathy Hopkins. “I’m grateful for all our competitors, judges, sponsors, and the entire team at ADESA Indianapolis and NAAA for their tireless efforts in making this a memorable event.”
Since 1989, top auctioneers and ringmen from around the world have competed in the WAAC. The 2024 WAAC marked the second time the event was held under National Auto Auction Association ownership.
NAAA thanks all the WAAC competitors, judges, sponsors, the WAAC committee, volunteers, and attendees for making this year’s event a success. Details about the 2025 WAAC competition at Manheim Phoenix will be released in the near future.
Auction Readies for Classics Sale
Staff Writer
May 02, 2024
State Line Auto Auction in Waverly, N.Y., will conduct its annual “Antique and Classic Sale” on May 17 with special vehicles to be auctioned as part of the Wayne Miller Collection.
Auction President Jeff Barber was a good friend of Wayne Miller for four decades. “Wayne and I kind of grew up together in the used car business, as we met in 1983 when I joined my father at State Line. Unfortunately, Wayne passed away last July.”
Barber continues: “Wayne’s family has entrusted the disposition of his vehicles to our family’s auction. They will form the nucleus of our specialty auction on May 17th which takes place immediately at the conclusion of our regular dealer auction. We expect over 900 units at our regular auction and over 200 antiques and classics.”
Through the years, Miller and his family owned and operated Miller Automotive and Miller Automotive Transport in Dushore, Pa., and Miller Chevrolet in Troy, Pa. Wayne was a lifelong racecar owner, with much success in his long career. Wayne’s oldest son, LW Miller, is married to Kelley Earnhardt Miller, the daughter of the late Dale Earnhardt.
Three special vehicles from their family will be offered: A 2002 Chevrolet Camaro SS “Intimidator” owned by Kelley Earnhardt Miller. It is the only “Intimidator” edition built in 2002 by Chevrolet. A 2002 “Dick Harrell Edition” Camaro owned by Kelley’s brother; Dale Earnhardt Jr. will also be offered; it is one of only 30 “Dick Harrell Camaros” but with custom specifications for Dale Jr. Also to be offered is a 1972 VW “hot rod” that was Kelley Earnhardt’s personal vehicle.
The Wayne Miller estate collection consists of over 25 vehicles. Cars and trucks from the 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, and 70s from Ford, Chevrolet, Pontiac, Mercury, Plymouth, and Lotus are included. Wayne was known to buy quality vehicles with unique options and characteristics.
Dealer Wins $100,000 at Auction
Staff Writer
May 01, 2024
Auto dealer Glen Pounds from Toccoa Auto Mall won a huge grand prize during an event at Carolina Auto Auction’s April 17 anniversary sale.
Pounds participated in a game in which he picked the grand prize envelope from a game board, walking away with a $100,000 prize.
“It’s an amazing feeling to participate in moments like this,” said Vann Humphrey, general manager at Carolina Auto Auction. “It speaks to the excitement of our sales events each week and our strong partnership with our customers. Our anniversary sale is just one example. We prioritize the customer experience each week and we are excited about creating more unforgettable moments and memories.”
MAG Now Refines Hybrid Auction Approach
Staff Writer
April 19, 2024
McConkey Auction Group announced the successful launch of LiveLanes in conjunction with its MAG Now digital auction. The company conducted its first LiveLanes event in the lower 48 states on April 10th. LiveLanes has been featured at MAG Alaska, its Anchorage location since January. The company plans to expand the application to its additional MAG Now lanes soon.
“Incorporating EBlock’s LiveLanes simulcast solution with its powerful digital auction platform is a win for our dealers,” says Brian McConkey, MAG Now’s general manager. “The energy, momentum, and relationships that live auctioneers facilitate create an engaging auction experience.”
MAG Now’s customers find LiveLanes in Lanes A, B, C, and G every Wednesday at 1 PM (PT). Lanes A, B, and C offer consignment from the lower 48 states’ Pacific Northwest region, while Lane G features Alaska vehicles. Lanes D, E, and F will transition from purely digital to LiveLanes sales in the coming weeks.
Greater Milwaukee Auto Auction Partners with AMS
Staff Writer
April 15, 2024
Greater Milwaukee Auto Auction has recently partnered with Auction Management Solutions for business development consulting.
AMS provides consulting services to the automotive industry, including independent auto auctions. One of the key areas AMS focuses on is providing Business Development services by contacting National Consignors to solicit auction partners for the liquidation of their assets.
“We are very excited to be a part of the AMS Group of independent auctions," said Kristie Letizia, owner of Greater Milwaukee Auto Auction. “Over the last several years, we have built a great base of dealer consignment and fleet lease business and feel that the timing is right to start expanding further into the national consignor space. We think AMS will be a great help to us in achieving our goals."
AMS also provides services that include compliance, marketing, financial analysis, internet and outside-the-gate sales, sales training, EV solutions, lot operations and data reviews.
Tom Stewart, President, and Founder of AMS, said, “We are equally very excited to be working with the team at GMAA. Drew Hoenecke, fleet lease manager at GMAA, has a great reputation within the National Account community, previously holding positions with Credit Acceptance and Wachovia Bank. Drew's background and experience from both sides of the business gives them a huge leg up in understanding customer needs.”
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America’s Group Promotes Polk
Staff Writer
April 07, 2024
America’s Group announced the appointment of Katie Polk as the new general manager of America’s Auto Auction Savannah.
Katie Polk, a Certified Automotive Remarketer, brings over 15 years of invaluable experience to her new role. Her journey began in 2009 with Southeastern Auto Auction, where she held various key positions, including Office Administrator, Dealer Sales Representative, Fleet/Lease Coordinator, and National Remarketing Manager. Her dedication and hard work culminated in her recent promotion to General Manager.
Throughout her tenure, Polk has played a pivotal role in the growth and success of America’s Auto Auction Savannah.
Brian Thomas, America’s Group SRVP, expressed his confidence in Polk’s abilities, stating, “Katie’s extensive experience, industry knowledge, and unwavering commitment to excellence make her the perfect fit for this role. We have no doubt that under her leadership, America’s Auto Auction Savannah will continue to thrive.”
Polk said, “I am truly honored to take on this new role and am enthusiastic about the opportunities that lie ahead. I am committed to upholding the high standards of professionalism and service that our customers have come to expect from America’s Auto Auction Savannah.”
Polk is a graduate of Georgia Southern University and currently serves as co-chair of the IARA social media sub-committee. She resides in Richmond Hill with her husband Daniel and their son Thomas Daniel.
Florida Auction Wins Remarketing Award
Staff Writer
April 04, 2024
Westlake Financial Remarketing recognizes the winner of their 2023 Auction of the Year Award and the Top 4 Regional Auction Performers.
2023 Nationwide Auction of the Year Winner:
- Manheim Central Florida
2023 Top Regional Auction Performers:
- South Central: 166 Auto Auction
- Northeast: Manheim Baltimore-Washington
- Southwest: ADESA Salt Lake
- Midwest: America’s AA Columbus Fair
“Congratulations to Manheim Central Florida on winning Auction of the Year. Their remarkable efforts and operational efficiency have allowed them to clear cars quickly while remaining Westlake’s 2nd largest auction by total volume,” says Michael Jari, Director of Remarketing at Westlake. “We’d also like to acknowledge the hard work of the Top 4 Regional Auction Performers. Their achievements are a testament to their diligence and steadfast performance in selling Westlake units this past year.”
Auctions are ranked based on efficiency and retention, with the top performers determined by the average score of Westlake remarketing units sold in 2023 and their ability to sell units at the highest Manheim Book Value percent.
“Our industry thrives because of partners like Westlake. Thank you to the Westlake Team and our Rep, Eddie Corrado, for this outstanding recognition,” stated Toni Williams, general manager of Manheim Central Florida. “The hard work and determination of our Central Florida Team made this achievement possible. Thank you for being diligent and committed to our processes, while showcasing the power of teamwork.”
Manheim San Antonio Wins Award
Staff Writer
April 03, 2024
Remarketing firm defi Managed Servicing Remarketing, the remarketing services of the Defi Solutions platform of products and services, is recognizing the relationship and contributions of partner Manheim San Antonio with its annual award for Auction of the Year.
The firm, Defi Managed Servicing Remarketing has presented the Auction of the Year Award for more than two decades through its National Quality Control Program. To qualify, an auction must be a member of the NAAA (National Auto Auction Association), be located within Defi’s preferred auction network, and outperform its peers within a designated calendar year.
Also being recognized are Carolina Auto Auction of Williamston, S.C., and America’s Auto Auction Kansas City of Kansas City, Mo., in second and third places respectively.
“Manheim San Antonio made an impressive showing this past year,” said Steve Bissett, Defi Solutions VP of client services. “Through quality of both service and customer experience offered by Manheim San Antonio our clients’ best interests were well represented.”
During these years of partnership, defi Managed Servicing Remarketing has been well-supported by experienced staff, leading technology, proven processes, and strong industry relationships, such as this partnership with Manheim San Antonio, and has been empowered to lower costs, shorten turnaround times, and maximize the resale price of off-lease and repossessed vehicles for its lenders.
“The team and I are ecstatic to be named Auction of the Year. Defi is an amazing partner. The collaboration and support we receive from defi Auction Manager Chris Colosi is incredible. We look forward to growing this relationship for years to come,” said Mike Browning, general manager.
GM Financial Names Auctions of the Year
Staff Writer
March 31, 2024
GM Financial named five regional Auction of the Year winners for 2023, one Most Valuable Auction of the Year, and for the first time, awarded a Perfect Audit Score. These awards are part of GM Financial’s annual Auction of Excellence program recognizing the nation’s highest-performing auction locations.
“Congratulations to these top auction locations. The auctions we work alongside are a key reason why GM Financial is able to produce outstanding results throughout the year,” said Bob Winn, senior vice president of remarketing solutions.
“These top performers provided exceptional service and value for our dealer customers. Their hard work and GM Financial’s continued success are evidence of this honor being well deserved.”
Honorees were selected based on their auctions’ performance in retention, operational metrics, presale activities and overall auction operations.
The 2023 Most Valuable Auction of the Year is Manheim Pennsylvania — Manheim, Pa.
2023 Regional Auction of the Year Winners:
- America’s Auto Auction Columbus Fair — Obetz, Ohio
- Southern Auto Auction — East Windsor, Conn.
- Manheim Dallas — Dallas, Texas
- Manheim Nashville — Mount Juliet, Tenn.
- Manheim Denver — Aurora, Colo.
The auction with the first Perfect Audit Score is America’s Auto Auction St. Louis — East St. Louis, Ill.
“Thank you for recognizing Manheim Pennsylvania with this prestigious award,” said Joey Hughes, Manheim Pennsylvania vice president and general manager.
“This honor is a testament to our team’s commitment and the trust our clients put in us to deliver the results they expect to achieve their business goals. We are grateful for our continued collaboration with GM Financial and look forward to continuing to exceed their expectations.”
