President's Message
As June rolled in, so too did the news that the automotive industry was hoping for: All major automakers (except Toyota) reported double-digit U.S. sales gains in May, as the light-vehicle sales rate hit its highest level since December. Sales rose 19 percent from May 2009, marking the eighth-straight monthly increase, the longest such streak since June 2000, according to Bloomberg Data. The seasonally adjusted annual sales rate hit 11.8 million, beating most analysts' predictions for demand in the low-11-million-unit range.
The industry’s recovery is also occurring the same time as SAA’s resurgence. After starting the year with a well-attended Outlook Conference at the North American International Auto Show, the SAA has been on a roll. Membership has steadily risen as the number of events providing valuable and timely information has increased.
We had our largest Networking Breakfast yet in May when John Henke unveiled some of his key findings from his annual OEM-Supplier Relationships study. John was joined by Ford’s Global Purchasing Chief Tony Brown who provided insight into his company’s supplier strategy. We’re following that event up this month with a rare opportunity to tour the Hyundai KIA America Technical Center. The event sold out within a week of its announcement further demonstrating that the SAA is on the right track in our strategy to provide maximum member value.
In addition to the popular networking events, our new website posted a record number of hits in May as members and other industry onlookers continue to find value and useful information.
The SAA is also proud to announce a new arm of the organization – the Young Professionals Network (YPN). You will certainly hear more about this group as we prepare a full launch, but you can find more information about the YPN on our website (www.SAAautoleaders.org). Please share this information with the appropriate people within your organization.
The recovery in U.S. auto sales remains slow, as uncertainty persists in the housing and job markets and the European debt crisis could further hamper consumer confidence. However, gradual and steady resurgence is what we need to avoid sudden fluctuations. The SAA Board feels the same way: Our recovery will steadily continue and we hope that you get engaged as we continue to become what the industry needs – the Automotive Thought Leaders.
Regards,
Laurie Harbour
SAA President
