Day 3
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Studio Two
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May 14, 2026
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1:45 pm
-
2:15 pm

Merchandising Masterclass: Telling Better Vehicle Stories with AI/Automation

About This Session

Not every car needs the same treatment. But until now, making that call still meant hours of manual work, guesswork, and a manager buried in a spreadsheet.

AI is changing the math on dealership merchandising, and the dealers winning right now aren't just automating faster, they're thinking differently about where their time actually goes. This session is a ground-level look at what modern vehicle merchandising really looks like when the tools start doing the heavy lifting.

Key Takeaways:

  • How AI-powered merchandising is giving managers back two to three hours a day, and what the best dealers are doing with that time
  • Why not every car deserves the same story, and how to match your message to the vehicle, the buyer, and the moment
  • Bridging the gap between technical specs and emotional buyer triggers, from a 9,000-dollar commuter to a fully loaded EV
  • Navigating FTC transparency expectations without sacrificing a compelling, conversion-ready VDP
  • What GEO means for your listings and why most dealers haven't caught up yet

The old playbook said touch every car the same way. The new one says know which cars need your attention, tell the right story on the rest, and put your energy where it actually moves metal.

Speakers

Joel Bassam ASOTU CON Headshot

Joel Bassam

President, Easterns Automotive Group

Chris Moyer headshot for ASOTU CON

Chris Moyer

Portfolio Performance Manager, vAuto

Kate Howell for ASOTU CON

Kate Howell

National Marketing Director, Mullinax Group

moderator

Joe Overby ASOTU CON Headshot

Joe Overby

Senior Editor, Auto Remarketing