Big focus for 2026: fixed ops and retention

Marcello emphasizes service retention, capacity expansion, and training as protection against softer new-car sales.

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Today I’m joined by Marcello Sciarrino, Co-Owner Island Auto Group.

We unpack how family-owned dealerships can stand out against national groups, why transparency matters now more than ever, and the biggest fixed ops opportunities in today’s market.

We also get into service retention, culture, and why Toyota’s hybrid strategy is paying off while others chase EVs.

This episode is brought to you by:

1. Overfuel - Overfuel is the new technical standard in automotive websites, proven to grow sales by 30%+. Whether you need more revenue or better support, they’ve got you covered. Visit @ http://overfuel.com and enter code CDG500 to get $500 OFF a new website.

2. CDK Global - Dealers—big news. CDK just leveled up their CRM in a massive way. We’re talking next-gen AI baked right into your daily workflow: Automatically following up with internet leads, surfacing buyer insights, and giving you instant AI-generated summaries of every customer interaction—no more digging through notes. And CRM Video is here. Record, send, and track personalized videos to customers—all inside the CRM. Check out the AI enhanced CDK CRM @ https://carguymedia.com/4px5cLv

3. Nomad Content Studio - Most dealers still fumble social—posting dry inventory pics or handing it off without a plan. Meanwhile, the store down the street is racking up millions of views and selling / buying cars using video. That’s where Nomad Content Studio comes in. We train your own videographer, direct what to shoot, and handle strategy, to posting, to feedback. Want in with the team behind George Saliba, EV Auto, and top auto groups? Book a call at http://www.trynomad.co ⁠

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