Harkins Returns as PALS Emcee
LAS VEGAS — Organizers of the annual P&A Leadership Summit have announced that Robert Harkins, vice president of training for American Guardian Warranty Services Inc. (AGWS), will return as master of ceremonies for the fourth consecutive year. The event will be held Aug. 30–31 at Paris Las Vegas.
“Once again, the thankless task of herding speakers and attendees falls to one of the few men who can handle it,” said David Gesualdo, show chair and publisher of P&A magazine. “Bob Harkins brings unparalleled professionalism and good humor to every occasion. We are lucky to have him back.”
Harkins joins the speaker roster as members of the PALS advisory board build the agenda. The event is designed to meet the needs of leading executives in the F&I product providers and administration segment.
“The P&A Leadership Summit delivers an incredible value to those who are fortunate enough to attend,” Harkins said. “I am honored to be a part of it, and I look forward to welcoming you to Las Vegas!”
Registration for PALS 2016 is open now. Attendees who register by July 29 will save $100. To inquire about sponsorship and exhibition opportunities, contact David Gesualdo via email or at 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 →