Strong communities, trusted partners and steady progress help independent auto dealer associations thrive. To see how this works in Indiana, we spoke with Arron Stanton, Executive Director of Indiana Independent Auto Dealers Association (IIADA). He shared how building real relationships supports dealers across the state and why partners like AFC play an important role in that success.
Arron’s Journey
Unlike many in the industry, Arron says he did not grow up in the auto dealer world. Instead he describes himself as someone who is deeply curious about people. He sees his role as building connections, not just managing transactions.
That mindset shapes the way he leads. Before joining IIADA, Arron built relationships through community service and nonprofit work where he focused on bringing people together. “I’m more of a relationship builder and a community shaper,” he said. “This role allows me to do that for independent dealers across Indiana.”
The Role of Preferred Providers
For Arron, the difference between someone just selling a product and a true provider is clear. He notes that navigating the industry can be difficult because, “there are givers in the auto industry and there are takers.”
This is why the IIADA places such high value on preferred partners. According to Arron, aligning with organizations like AFC allows dealers “to connect in environments with other givers and net positive contributors to the industry. It really allows them to save a lot of time and skepticism.”
When discussing the association’s relationship with AFC, Arron emphasizes the personal dynamic, saying, “ On a human level, it’s awesome. Every person from AFC is genuinely a joy to talk with…they are all great sounding boards and great collaborators.”
With AFC being headquartered in Carmel, Indiana, the relationship offers unique local benefits. Arron highlights the “familiarity and support provided by the team,” noting that AFC even donated space and a meal for the recent IIADA board retreat. “It provides me almost an immediate sense of camaraderie and closeness with others who also care about the association and our success as much as I do.”
How Car Dealership Floorplan Financing Powers Growth
In today’s competitive market, Arron says speed and reliable funding are “everything.” Dealers who want to grow their inventory or expand their dealership need more than just access to money. They need a floorplanning provider they can count on.
Arron sees that kind of relationship as an advantage. “I think that a relationship with someone like AFC is a superpower for a dealer in a competitive market,” he said.
The Value of Auto Dealer Networking Events
Arron encourages dealers to attend major events like the Annual Expo. He believes these gatherings help turn business contacts into real relationships. Instead of sitting across from each other in a sales pitch, dealers and vendors get to stand side-by-side.
“These events let people connect and learn,” he explained.” It’s less about the transaction, and more about a strategy of understanding.”
By meeting in person, dealers often leave with what Arron calls “the seed of a relationship,” something that can grow into long-term trust and partnership.
Stronger Together
When asked how IIADA keeps its membership strong, Arron identifies “progress” as a key ingredient.
“If the association and the relationships that are involved are moving forward, that’s how you sustain the membership,” he said.
He believes the association plays an important role for independent dealers. It helps them stay independent without feeling alone. “The value we bring,” Arron explained, “is giving dealers a way to stay independent together, not isolated.”
Arron’s Advice to Independent Dealers
Arron’s advice to dealers focuses on vision and the human element of the business.
“Find people who believe in your vision,” he said. “Look for those who want to be part of the puzzle and help turn that vision into a reality.”
He closed with a reminder about priorities, “Love the people that you work with and the customers you serve more than the business itself.”
Supporting Dealers at Every Stage
From small, one or two-person operations to large independent groups, OIADA’s mission is to make sure every dealer has access to the right providers and resources. According to Wendy, that type of support depends heavily on strong partnerships. “We have to be all things to all dealers at all times,” Wendy said. “And that means working with partners like AFC who can support dealers no matter where they are in their journey.”
Ready to grow your independent dealership?
To learn more about how IIADA supports independent dealers across Indiana, click here. Discover how AFC can help power your dealership’s growth with trusted floorplan financing.
* Disclaimer: AFC does not guarantee any results for floorplan financing and examples are for illustrative purposes only. Dealers should consult their own advisors to make independent business decisions regarding floorplan financing. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the individual interviewee and are not the opinions of AFC. AFC does not verify the accuracy of the information provided by the interviewee in this article and is not responsible for any errors or omissions. “AFC” refers to Automotive Finance Corporation, Automotive Finance Canada Inc., and AFC Cal, LLC in their respective jurisdictions
