What's Happening?
Clint Newell, a prominent auto dealer, has been nominated for the TIME Dealer of the Year award, a prestigious honor in the automobile industry. Newell is among 47 nominees nationwide who will be recognized
at the National Automobile Dealers Association Show in Las Vegas on February 5, 2026. The award highlights successful dealers who also demonstrate a strong commitment to community service. Newell, representing the Oregon Auto Dealers Association, was selected from over 20,000 dealers across the country. He owns Clint Newell Toyota in Roseburg, Oregon, and has been involved in the auto industry since 1983. Newell has invested significantly in his dealership, including a $1.8 million renovation in 2018, and has established a technician education program. His community involvement includes founding a free summer concert series and serving on various local committees.
Why It's Important?
The nomination of Clint Newell for the TIME Dealer of the Year award underscores the importance of community engagement in the business sector. This recognition not only highlights Newell's business acumen but also his dedication to community service, setting a benchmark for other business leaders. The award brings attention to the role of local businesses in fostering community development and supporting local initiatives. For the auto industry, it emphasizes the value of investing in employee development and customer satisfaction. Newell's approach could inspire other dealers to adopt similar practices, potentially leading to broader industry changes in how dealerships operate and engage with their communities.
What's Next?
The next steps involve the selection process for the TIME Dealer of the Year award, where a panel from the Tauber Institute for Global Operations at the University of Michigan will choose finalists from each NADA region. The national winner will be announced at the NADA Show in February 2026. Finalists will receive monetary awards for their chosen charities, with the national winner receiving a larger donation. This process will likely draw attention to the nominees' community contributions and could influence other dealers to enhance their community involvement.
Beyond the Headlines
Clint Newell's nomination highlights the evolving role of auto dealers as community leaders. His initiatives, such as the technician education program, reflect a shift towards sustainable business practices that prioritize employee growth and community welfare. This trend could lead to long-term changes in the industry, where dealerships become more integrated into their local communities, not just as businesses but as active participants in social development.
