Saying Goodbye to 2025 – Onwards & Upwards…
It’s no secret that 2025 has been a year of massive change. Between the rapid evolution of AI and market volatility, the pressure to move faster is something every dealer feels.
However, as we look toward 2026, I want to share a perspective that might feel counterintuitive: to move faster, we must first ensure we are standing on solid ground.
It is incredibly exciting to see what is possible with new tech, but there is a hidden risk in the “rush to automate.” If we apply high-speed technology to broken processes, we simply fail faster.
Erin Richmond | CEO
The most successful dealerships in the coming year won’t just be the ones with the newest tools; they will be the ones who have done the foundational work:
- Standardizing core workflows to ensure consistency across the floor.
- Documenting institutional knowledge so your strategy doesn’t leave when a staff member does.
- Cleaning the data that fuels your decision-making engines.
“The illiterate of the 21st century aren’t those who can’t read, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.” – Alvin Toffler. With this in mind, the coming year will require us to:
- Learn how to leverage advanced capabilities to reach in-market shoppers more efficiently.
- Unlearn “the way we’ve always done it” when those old habits lead to wasted ad spend.
- Relearn the timeless basics: clear communication, sound strategy, and transparent processes.
At sMedia, our commitment for 2026 is to help you navigate this balance. We will continue to bring you innovative tools like AI-powered video and dynamic social integrations, but we will always remain anchored in the fundamentals that make a dealership resilient.
Thank you for your continued trust and partnership. Let’s head into 2026 with an eye on the future and our feet firmly on the ground.
Automotive Industry Events
JOIN US AT BOOTH 6519N!
Mark your calendars for the NADA 2026 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Join us and thousands of dealers for world-class education, unmatched networking, and a first look at the cutting-edge technology and strategy shaping the future of the auto industry.
Upcoming Webinar Alert
Put on your “big prompt pants” and secure your team’s competitive edge! Certified AI Trainer Brent Wees is leading our next essential webinar.
On January 13th @ 1 pm EST, we’re teaching your entire dealership team how to think with AI. Learn the precise strategies and prompting techniques that instantly strengthen performance across sales, service, and marketing.
Previous Webinar Now on Demand
Did you know your website might be secretly sabotaging your entire marketing budget?
Our recent webinar uncovered the specific slow speeds, clunky designs, and conversion killers bleeding thousands in ad spend. If you weren’t able to join us live, here’s your chance to access the strategies that save real money.
Product Highlight
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Video is no longer optional as it drives 135% more engagement than static photos.
Our AI Video product completely automates the creation of high-impact, dynamic video content by leveraging your existing inventory feed. Enhance your VDPs with engaging 60-second videos and upgrade your social campaigns with automated 6-second videos for platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, ensuring you stop the scroll and capture high-intent leads without ever touching a camera.
🔗 Learn How to Upgrade Your Inventory Presentation Instantly
Spotlight: Terry Bell | Customer Success Manager
This month, we celebrate Terry Bell, our dedicated Customer Success Manager, who is marking nearly seven years with sMedia! Terry is a cornerstone of our client relationships, leveraging his deep background in Broadcast Communications, Public Relations, Sales, and Marketing to align our technology with our dealers’ business goals.
His commitment: “I’m excited to use my skills to help dealers succeed,” drives him to translate complex digital performance into clear, actionable strategies, making him a true partner in client success.
Beyond his expertise, Terry leads an adventure-packed life, boasting travels to 50 countries (including a memorable encounter with the Russian Secret Service at the Kremlin), and maintaining an active creative routine through acting, writing, and directing plays. When he’s not optimizing dealer ROI, he’s planning an African safari, dreaming of the Rimac Nevera, or enjoying time with his dog, Chewy, demonstrating a perfect blend of commitment and creative passion.
Boost Your Knowledge
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Let’s Talk Strategy: sales@smedia.io
DIGITAL GROWTH FOR DEALERS
