CATA News

Dear Dealer,

As my term concludes as 2024–2025 Chairman of the Chicago Automobile Trade Association, and I prepare to take on the role of 2026 Chicago Auto Show Chairman, I am both honored and humbled to reflect on the past year of service. It has been a time marked by both challenges and progress, moments that tested our resolve as dealers, but ultimately reinforced the strength and unity of our industry.

In stepping into this leadership role, I was mindful of the legacy built by those who served before me. I stand on the shoulders of generations of dealer leaders who gave their time, energy, and expertise to advocate for our businesses and protect our shared interests. Their tireless work laid the foundation that made it possible for our Board to continue advancing the mission of the CATA on behalf of dealers across the Chicagoland area.

The CATA standing Committees are the engines that drive the organization, so I will begin here.

The Government Relations and Lobbying Committee, which I chaired, spent countless hours meeting with our representatives in Springfield to try to effectuate three very important matters to dealers. First, we are concerned that the restructured retail allowance cap is particularly burdensome to our dealers considering the volume and amounts of transactions they process, and we have sought to create a carve-out for vehicle transactions, with any lost revenue to the state more than made up by tightening the laws on taxing private sales. Secondly, we added our voice and resources in fighting for a $100 increase in the documentary fee. Finally, we advocated for an amendment to the Motor Vehicle Franchise Act which would favorably modify language on warranties and right of first refusal, while clearly providing that legacy manufacturers cannot create new entities to sell directly to the public. Sadly, for differing reasons, none of these endeavors came to fruition in this past legislative session; however, the CATA will continue to advocate for these causes in succeeding sessions for the betterment of all.

The Auto Show Committee, with Kelly Webb Roberts as Chairwoman, produced a fabulous 2025 Chicago Auto Show despite continuing headwinds. Helped by Stellantis’ return, the Show resembled shows of the past, with more than 100,000 in-vehicle experiences, an all-time record. The First Look for Charity gala raised $2.5 million for participating charities. Our advertising expenditure of over $438,000 was buttressed by almost $1.6 million in bonus weight. All in all, the Show continues to be the premier consumer show in the country and a media and public relations home run for the OEMs and CATA dealers.

As a prelude to the 2025 Chicago Auto Show, the CATA conducted its third Chicago Drives Electric event this past October. Included were 15 participating brands: Audi, BMW, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Dodge, Fiat, Ford, GMC, Hyundai, Kia, Lexus, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota and Volvo. In February, the 2025 Chicago Auto Show’s Chicago Drives Electric track featured 12 participating brands spanning 25 different models on two test tracks totaling 100,000 square feet. Chicago Drives Electric has been an unqualified success by any measure.

The Member Benefits Committee, under John Crane’s leadership, researched and vetted allied companies who could provide worthwhile programs, vendors, and cost efficiencies to CATA members. Only the best of the best of these ultimately received CATA recognition.

The Finance, Pension, Audit, and Compensation Committee, comprised of CATA Officers, has worked diligently over the past several years to stabilize the CATA’s finances in the face of continuing pressures on the Auto Show. Not only has the Committee examined ways to increase revenue and decrease costs, but it has worked hand in hand with the Member Benefits Committee to expand the wide range of benefits the CATA provides to its dealers.

The Civic and Dealer Relations and First Look for Charity Committee, under Emir Abinion’s leadership, ensures that the charitable aspects of the CATA continue in high gear. Whether it’s the First Look for Charity Event, which generated $2.5 million this year for charities; the BBQ for the Troops, now rebranded Drive for the Troops, which to date has raised almost $1.2 million for the USO; or the Chicagoland Dealers Care program, where the CATA provides matching contributions of up to $1,500 to charities put forth by our dealer members, these efforts combine significant community engagement with awareness of our member dealers’ continuing generosity to the communities they serve.

The Employee Relations Committee, chaired by Jerry Haggerty, continued to set a path forward to provide answers to dealers’ questions in the employment arena as well as to provide a revised strategy for upcoming labor negotiation. Our employee benefits provider, SESCO, has broad experience with many state dealer associations, and has shown itself to be an invaluable tool in providing answers to employment issues that arise. Regarding upcoming negotiations, the CATA has implemented a structural change wherein dealers rather than attorneys drive the bargaining process. With this new template we hope to avoid bitterness and confrontation (and strikes) in the upcoming negotiations.

The Drive Chicago Committee, under Jared Wickstrom’s leadership, continually looks for ways to update and refine the DriveChicago.com website in its efforts to be the definitive website for vehicle purchases in the Chicagoland area.

The Media Strategy Committee, chaired by Steve Phillipos, again strategically directed $438,500 toward media on behalf of the Chicago Auto Show, Chicago Drives Electric, BBQ for the Troops, and other worthwhile events.

Finally, the Nominating Committee, after reaching out for suggestions from fellow dealers, nominated five outstanding candidates to run for the four vacancies this year on the CATA Board of Directors. The Committee continues to seek out and find knowledgeable candidates of the highest integrity to serve as CATA Directors.

It has been a privilege to serve alongside the 11 dedicated members of the CATA Board of Directors, fellow dealers who continue to give generously of their time, energy, and insight to strengthen our industry. I especially want to recognize J.C. Phelan, who concludes his service on the Board after an incredible nine-year tenure. J.C.’s leadership across every Director role including Chairman and Auto Show Chairman, has been marked by wisdom, steadiness, and a deep commitment to the dealer community. His presence will be missed, but his impact will continue to resonate.

I also extend my deepest appreciation to the CATA staff, led by President Jen Morand in her first full year at the helm. Jen, along with Executive Vice President Chris Konecki, continues to elevate our association through innovation, energy, and a deep understanding of the issues we face. Their professionalism and dedication are essential to everything the CATA accomplishes.

A special thank you as well to Dennis O’Keefe, our General Counsel, whose unparalleled knowledge of the legal landscape and unwavering guidance have been invaluable, not only during my term, but to every Director who has served over the years.

Finally, I congratulate Ryan Kelly on his election as 2025–2026 CATA Chairman. Ryan brings not only experience and judgment, but a proud family legacy. His father, Art Kelly, served as Chairman in 2004–2005. I have every confidence that Ryan will lead with distinction and vision.

Linked here is a summary of the actions taken by the CATA Board of Directors over the past year. Thank you again for the opportunity to serve, and I look forward to what lies ahead.

Sincerely,

Jason Roberts

CATA Chairman 2024/2025

CHICAGO (June 24, 2025) – Chicagoland’s new-car dealers are once again on a summertime mission to raise awareness and funds for local military and their families through the 12th annual Drive for the Troops fundraiser.  Throughout the entire month of July, more than 80 dealerships across the area will join in hosting online fundraisers and onsite events at their dealerships to benefit the USO.

Since the program’s inception, Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA) dealers have rallied to raise more than $1.2 million to support USO programs and services.

“Rallying behind our local service members and their families is something that continues to unite our communities, and the USO remains an essential partner in that mission,” said Ryan Kelly, Chicago Automobile Trade Association chairman. “Our local new-car dealers have shown time and again that they’re not just in the business of selling cars—they’re committed community leaders. The collective impact of this decade-long fundraiser has been remarkable, and we’re thankful to everyone who continues to help drive its success.”

Kelly continued, “If you are looking for a way to give back this summer, we invite you to join in the fundraising efforts with your local new-car dealer by stopping by one of the many events taking place or making an online donation to the cause.”

“The continued support from hometown communities and local new-car dealerships has enabled the USO to make a meaningful impact on the lives of more than 300,000 service members and their families each year,” said Christopher Schmidt, Executive Director at the USO. “Thanks to hundreds of programs, services, and our USO Centers across Illinois, we're able to stay connected with those who serve. Events like Drive for the Troops are a powerful example of neighbors coming together to support one another, and attending your local dealership’s fundraiser this July or donating online is a fantastic way to get involved.”

“On behalf of the USO and the military service members we proudly support, we extend our sincere thanks to all participating dealers and the generous communities behind them,” Schmidt added.

Fundraising will be active online throughout the entire month of July. Those interested can make a donation online at https://p2p.onecause.com/drive2025.

To find the full listing of participating CATA dealers and local fundraising events, visit https://drivechicago.com/CustomPage/2/drive-for-the-troops. For more information about the USO, visit Illinois.USO.org.

###

About the Chicago Automobile Trade Association

Founded in 1904, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association is one of the nation’s largest metropolitan dealer organizations. It is comprised of more than 420 franchised new-car dealers and an additional 150 allied members. The group’s dealer members employ about 19,000 people in the metropolitan area. The association has produced the world-famous Chicago Auto Show since 1935. For more information please visit www.CATA.info.

About USO

The USO is the leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the well-being of the people serving in America's military and their families. Since 1941, the USO has been by the side of service members throughout their military service. Impactful support is provided through our 250+ locations around the world, a robust care package delivery program, global entertainment, military spouse and youth programming, and much more, all made possible by donors, corporate partners, volunteers and staff. To learn more and support our critical mission around the globe, please visit USO.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram and LinkedIn. 

We would like to inform all members of an upcoming change to the annual membership dues. On May 20, the Board of Directors approved an increase in dues from $800 to $1,000.

This change will take effect beginning July 1, 2025.

As part of this increase, $150 of the new dues amount will be allocated to a dedicated legal defense fund. This fund is being established to help the organization address extraordinary legal needs that may arise and to ensure we are prepared to safeguard the interests of our members into the future. Examples are protecting the Warranty Reimbursement Act and fighting legacy OEMs from selling direct-to-consumer in Illinois (i.e. VW’s Scout or Honda’s Afeela).  

The decision to increase dues was made with careful consideration by the CATA Board of Directors and reflects CATA’s ongoing commitment to maintaining the strength and sustainability of our organization.

Secondly, as part of ongoing efforts to streamline administrative processes and improve service to our members, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA) will begin transitioning all membership dues to align with CATA’s fiscal year, which runs from July 1 to June 30.

Beginning in June, the CATA will initiate a phased transition to move all membership renewal dates to July 1. This change will ensure a consistent membership cycle across the organization and improve efficiency in planning, budgeting and communication.

How This Affects Members:

• Members with June 2025 renewal dates will be the first to renew on the new July 1 cycle.
• Members with July 2025 renewal dates will remain the same.
• Members with renewal dates of August 1, 2025, or later will receive advance notifications and a prorated dues rate to adjust their membership to the new cycle.

All new dealer membership applications will be subject to the full $1,000 annual dues amount and will be aligned with the July 1 renewal cycle. This approach allows for a gradual and equitable shift without disrupting member benefits.

CATA will communicate directly with all affected members well in advance of any changes to ensure clarity and a smooth transition.

If you have any questions about how this change might affect your membership, please contact the CATA. We appreciate your continued support and look forward to serving you more effectively through this improved system.

As part of ongoing efforts to streamline administrative processes and improve service to our members, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA) will begin transitioning all membership dues payments to align with CATA’s fiscal year, which runs from July 1 to June 30.

Beginning in June, the CATA will initiate a phased transition to move all membership renewal dates to July 1. This change will ensure a consistent membership cycle across the organization and improve efficiency in planning, budgeting and communication.

How This Affects Members:

• Allied members with June and July 2025 renewal dates will be the first to renew on the new July 1 cycle.
• Allied members with renewal dates of August 1, 2025, or later will receive advance notifications and a prorated dues rate to adjust their membership to the new cycle.

CATA will communicate directly with all affected members well in advance of any changes to ensure clarity and a smooth transition. If you have any questions about how this change might affect your membership, please contact the CATA directly at 630-495-2282.

We appreciate your continued support and look forward to serving you more effectively through this improved system.

With summer just around the corner, we are excited to once again come together in July to support the USO and our local troops. Now in its 12th year, the BBQ for the Troops program has been a long-standing tradition with the USO that has brought all Chicagoland dealers together for a great cause.

The program has changed and evolved over the years, and just like anything, it’s time that we update our branding and program structure to match that! This year, we are rebranding BBQ for the Troops to Drive for the Troops.

Learn more and sign up here. 

For more than a decade, DriveChicago.com has been a pivotal platform in aiding the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA) in connecting in-market car shoppers with its dealer members. Today, through strategic partnerships with Automotive Internet Media (AIM), AutoSales.com, and WebBuy Digital Retailing, DriveChicago.com unveils a completely revamped website, offering a significantly enhanced user experience that directly links shoppers to specific vehicle detail pages on dealer websites.

Maintaining its core mission, DriveChicago.com aims to capture in-market vehicle shoppers and seamlessly direct them to CATA member dealers. Complementary to this mission is the advancement of CATA's marketing initiatives, including BBQ for the Troops, the Chicago Auto Show, and Chicago Drives Electric. Leveraging AIM's digital marketing prowess and WebBuy’s innovative digital retailing platform, the redesigned DriveChicago.com optimizes the search and discovery process, ensuring vehicle shoppers are efficiently guided to CATA-member websites.

Building on a decade-long partnership with AIM, DriveChicago.com now employs cutting-edge cloud-based database management and web hosting software. The redesigned site boasts enhanced focus and remarkable speed, delivering vehicle listings instantaneously. Unlike other online shopping portals, DriveChicago.com facilitates a seamless shopping experience, directing users right to the dealer's doorstep. Upon clicking a vehicle listing, users are instantaneously redirected to the dealership's website.

DriveChicago.com exclusively features the new and used inventory of CATA dealer members, with search results determined solely by user-filter options. There are no priority, sponsored, or featured listings – all inventory is displayed based solely on the users preferences. This transformation reaffirms DriveChicago.com's commitment to its users and partners, creating a more efficient, user-centric platform that enhances the car shopping experience.

“As a marketing tool for the CATA, DriveChicago.com has always been a significant benefit for CATA dealer members, but the new site will step up the delivery of in-market shoppers directly to CATA dealer websites,” said Mark Bilek, General Manager of DriveChicago.com. “Utilizing best-in-class marketing and digital retailing tools, DriveChicago.com is perfectly positioned to help CATA member dealers cultivate and capture in-market shoppers.”

The engine driving traffic to DriveChicago.com is AIM’s CarClicks digital marketing platform. CarClicks identifies and targets in-market shoppers who have already expressed their intent to purchase, directing them to matching vehicles on DriveChicago.com. By doing so, CarClicks efficiently channels more than 30,000 highly engaged auto shoppers directly to CATA member dealer websites each month – all at a fraction of the cost of traditional digital marketing. More importantly, CarClicks steers online shoppers away from third-party platforms, delivering them directly to individual dealer websites, which traditionally offer the best return on investment (ROI).

As consumers increasingly gravitate toward a fully digital car-buying experience, DriveChicago.com and AIM have partnered with WebBuy to deliver an all-in-one retailing solution. The platform guides customers through every step of the process – from trade-in valuation and loan approval to accessories selection and vehicle purchase – in a streamlined, user-friendly format. Designed to be customizable and dealer-focused, WebBuy ensures a convenient experience for buyers while also helping to maximize dealers’ profitability. Combined with the additional traffic generated by AIM, WebBuy maximizes the likelihood of turning DriveChicago.com visitors into qualified leads, helping CATA dealers remain competitive in today’s fast-changing digital marketplace.

“DriveChicago.com is setting a new standard for aggregate-inventory sites by putting the power of full online transactions in the hands of local dealerships,” said Steve Zabawa, CEO of WebBuy. “We’re thrilled to partner with them and bring our cutting-edge technology to their platform, helping Chicago dealers thrive in the competitive digital marketplace.”

In the coming months, AutoSales, Inc. plans to roll out similar vehicle-shopping portals in collaboration with new car dealer associations nationwide. This initiative will provide these associations with a highly effective marketing tool for their members, while also serving as a significant revenue-generating opportunity for the associations.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has started to sue employers who it claims are not complying with the reasonable accommodation requirements of the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA). In light of the flurry of EEOC litigation, employers should be mindful of 4 things they should not do.

For more information, contact SESCO by 1-800-764-4127; sesco@sescomgt.com or via your Consultant of Record, Ms. Jamie M. Hasty, Vice President, jamie@sescomgt.com or 804-931-6281

The following are state law updates that Illinois employers need to be aware of. Unless otherwise noted, the changes are effective January 1, 2025.

Enhanced Workplace Rules for Minors Under 16

AI Added to Human Rights Act

Voluntary Use of E-Verify Prohibited

Amendments to the BIPA

Amendments to Temporary Workers Law

The Illinois Day and Temporary Labor Services Act has been amended for the third time in the last year. The amendments clarify employers' and staffing agencies' obligations on equal pay, notices, and more.

Equal-Pay Requirement

Responsibility for Determining Equal Pay

The amendments also clarify that it is the temporary staffing agency's responsibility to determine the amount of equal pay due, based on information provided by the third-party client, and to pay the temporary laborer correctly.

Collective Bargaining Agreement Exemption

Under the amendments, the equal-pay provision does not apply if the "comparator" employees (the third-party client's directly hired employees) are covered by a valid collective bargaining agreement.

Equivalent Benefits

The IDTLSA purports to entitle temporary laborers to a certain level of benefits after assignment to a third-party client for a certain amount of time. However, the provision remains enjoined and not in effect. The Illinois Department of Labor has appealed that decision. The case is pending before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit.

Amendments to Non-Compete Law

• • The second amendment provides that a covenant not to compete or not to solicit is void and illegal with respect to individuals employed in construction, regardless of whether an individual is covered by a bona fide collective bargaining agreement.
• • The amendments take effect immediately.

In the meantime, we are also monitoring two house bills that would further amend the Illinois Freedom to Work Act: HB 4888, which provides that a non-compete or a non-solicit is not enforceable if it restricts an employee's ability to exercise his or her rights under federal law, and HB 5385, which would void all non-competes and non-solicits, regardless of the employee's annual compensation. Both of these bills have been referred to the Rules Committee.

If dealers have any questions or concerns, we recommend they contact SESCO (a free CATA benefit) to ensure compliance.  For assistance, contact us at 423-764-4127 or by email at sesco@sescomgt.com

Last week, CATA Chairman Jason Roberts, CATA President Jennifer Morand, CATA EVP Chris Konecki, along with NADA Board Member Joe Massarelli (Liberty Auto City), traveled to D.C. to attend the annual NADA Washington Conference. It was a busy, successful couple days of meetings on Capitol Hill with key legislators and/or their Chief of Staff, including Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, Congressman Robin Kelly, Congressman Mike Quigley, and Senators Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin.

The NADA briefed the CATA team on the key federal issues to relay to the legislators. The primary issues communicated were:

The team did a wonderful job communicating these messages that were heard loud and clear in Washington!

Earlier this week, Hyundai Hope On Wheels, along with Chicago Auto Show Chairwoman and Webb Auto Group Dealer Kelly Webb Roberts, presented Lurie Children's a $400,000 Hope Grant and $250,000 Hyundai Young Investigator Grant. The Hope Grant and Hyundai Young Investigator Grant were presented to Dr. Loretta Li and Dr. Kevin McNearny from Lurie Children's Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders during a check presentation and Handprint Ceremony, the signature event of Hyundai Hope On Wheels, in which local children impacted by pediatric cancer dip their hands in paint and place their handprints on a white Hyundai Hope On Wheels vehicle to commemorate their personal stories of hope.