sMedia Dealer Download – January 2026 Newsletter

January 23rd, 2026

Beyond the Predictions: Navigating the Realities of Early 2026

As we settle into the first quarter, the usual wave of “year-ahead” predictions has arrived. At sMedia, we prefer to stay grounded in the published consumer data reports and tangible signals we’re seeing across thousands of live campaigns right now. The start of 2026 has brought several encouraging shifts that offer a positive path forward for dealerships focusing on their “circle of control”. By leaning into the efficiencies found within our real-time data, you can ensure your marketing remains a strategic advantage rather than just another line item.

Rhys Albrecht | Head of Customer Success

Here are the top three trends currently shaping the start of the year:

Here are the top three trends currently shaping the start of the year:

High-Funnel Efficiency: Higher-funnel platforms like TikTok and Meta are providing fantastic value as competition temporarily dips in early Q1. We are seeing ad costs drop sharply, allowing marketing dollars to go further and capture buyers who will close deals in the coming months.
Hyper-Focus on Price: Consumers continue to prioritize price as the single most important factor in their purchasing decisions. Success in this environment comes from ensuring your inventory, both new and used, is priced competitively and includes accessible options to attract traffic.
The Return to Human Connection: Despite the rise of AI, shoppers are increasingly choosing contact methods like walk-ins and phone calls over traditional internet form fills. As form submissions decline, it’s critical to make it easier for customers to call your store and speak with someone directly.

We’ve analyzed these shifts to help you stay ahead and focus on the actions that drive results. Read the Full Blog Here.

Automotive Industry Events

JOIN US AT BOOTH 6519N!

We know it’s a hike to the North Hall. We’ll make it worth it with delicious coffee and comfy seats. We have the perfect spot for you to recharge, boost your caffeine level, and have a candid conversation about your dealership’s 2026 strategy.

Our team, including Erin Richmond, CEO, and Alecia Wilson, Head of Growth, will be on-site, along with our top strategists. Spaces are filling up fast as the countdown to Vegas begins. Secure your time slot (and your coffee) below. Here’s Last Year’s ‘SNOLA’ Recap

sMedia Dealer Webinar Series

Upcoming Webinar: Stop Wasting Ad Spend!

Date: March 10 | Time: 1:00 PM (EST)

Understanding the cost of a bad website was step one. Diving deeper into the user (i.e. shopping) experience is step two.

Join us as we explore dealer website data and how shoppers interact with your inventory online. Click to register below!

Register Now

Most of us have experimented with AI by now, but very few are seeing consistent results. Why?

We’re helping your team shift the focus from asking AI for answers to using it as a partner to help solve real problems in your dealership.

Watch Now

Product Highlight

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If you sell RVs, campers, trailers, or 5th wheels, Google VLAs are an excellent choice to market your inventory and here’s why:

✔️ 27% increase in leads for used vehicles
✔️ 17% rise in conversion rates
✔️ 18% decrease in cost per acquisition

Your inventory will be presented with pictures, pricing, and details right at the top of the results page.

Learn More

Spotlight: Mark Buck | Solution Consultant (SC)

Mark Buck has been a driving force at sMedia for over four and a half years, currently serving as a Solution Consultant. Mark’s journey to the automotive tech world is as unique as his personality; originally trained in acting, he spent a decade in Toronto’s theatre and film scene before transitioning into software partnerships for dealerships.

Today, he finds his professional passion at the intersection of data and innovation. Mark is truly energized by helping dealers leverage sMedia’s technology to streamline their efficiencies, save money, and boost profitability.

When he isn’t helping dealerships grow, Mark embraces the great outdoors from his home on a small lake north of Sault Ste. Marie. He is an avid sportsman, dedicated to hockey, baseball, and hunting, and loves going on canoe trips with his fiancée, Shae.

Whether he’s back home enjoying his mom’s famous honey garlic ribs, heading out on his annual spring fishing trip with his dad and brothers, or reminiscing about the time he played ping pong with Prince, Mark brings a vibrant energy and a wealth of experience to our team, and we are so lucky to have him.