Harkins Returns as PALS Emcee
LAS VEGAS — Organizers of the annual P&A Leadership Summit have announced that Robert Harkins will once again serve as master of ceremonies for the 2015 event, which is scheduled for Sept. 9–10 at Paris Las Vegas.
“Bob Harkins is a man of many talents, but his energy and genuine affection for our industry make him the ideal ringmaster for event,” said David Gesualdo, show chair and publisher of F&I and Showroom and P&A magazines. “We are delighted to have him back.”
Harkins will host PALS for the third consecutive year, the most recent of several such appearances, including Agent Summit in March and April’s Midwest Compliance Summit. That month, Harkins joined American Guardian Warranty Services (AGWS) as the company’s vice president of training, continuing a career in consumer finance, sales and F&I management that spans 25 years.
“I am honored to serve as your P&A Leadership Summit emcee for the third straight year,” Harkins said. “Recent actions at the legislative and judicial branches have pushed our industry to the tipping point. Events like PALS give voice to the concerns and solutions unique to the P&A segment.”
More information about Industry Summit and P&A Leadership Summit is available at the events’ websites. Attendees who register by Aug. 7 will enjoy a $100 early-bird discount.
To inquire about sponsorship or exhibition opportunities, contact David Gesualdo via email or call 727-947-4027.
More Industry

Charger Network Growth Slows
Despite a projected increase in public EV chargers in 2026, charging infrastructure remains a top concern for consumers as the gap between the most and least EV-friendly places remains substantial.
Read More →
Lenders, Consumers Take on More Auto Loan Risk
September records loosened credit access the most in over a decade as buyers took advantage of the conditions to afford trading, though loan applications fell.
Read More →
Next-Gen Hybrids in Sight
Dealerships can expect to see revamped hybrids from Honda next year as the company rolls out a new system and model lineup.
Read More →
Gem State Stores Change Hands
A larger auto group founded in the industry’s early years sold two franchises to a neighbor group that's on a growth spurt.
Read More →
Charging In Motion
Honda has been researching wireless in-motion charging for electric vehicles since 2025, and new technology developments have put it a step closer to a final product.
Read More →
Twin Cities Stores Sell
Minnesota-based Walser Automotive Group made what it called the most significant acquisition in its history with a three-rooftop deal in Minneapolis.
Read More →
U.S. Auto Sales Still Below Prepandemic Levels
Mobility Global industry observers don’t expect the market to return to the higher volumes that became routine before Covid but to stay well below its potential.
Read More →
The Powertrain Shift
Electric-vehicle owners are backpedaling, according to new data, with product availability driving many to shift back to gas-powered engines.
Read More →
Achromatic Autos
The shades that dominate the U.S. car market don’t call attention to themselves, though grayscale may have plateaued after a 30-year upswing, research shows.
Read More →
Used-Vehicle Affordability Worsens
Listing prices in August defied seasonal trends, rising above $27,000 for the second time this year.
Read More →