McLEAN, VA — In a showing of support for the rebirth of New Orleans, the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) has reaffirmed its commitment to hold its annual convention and exposition there in 2009.
NADA said its wants to do everything it can to help New Orleans recover after the devastation of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The NADA convention is one of the largest the city plays host to and is good for local business, Phil Brady president of NADA said.
"Both dealers and exhibitors are excited about returning to New Orleans, and are looking forward to supporting the community,” Brady said. “NADA is encouraged by the city’s efforts to refurbish the convention center and many of the hotels damaged by the storm."
NADA, through its charitable foundation, has raised $3.3 million in emergency relief for the employees of dealerships affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Texas.
The National Automobile Dealers Association, founded in 1917 and based in McLean, VA, represents approximately 20,000 new car and truck dealers holding nearly 43,000 separate franchises, domestic and import.