As we close the books on an incredible 2025, we’re thrilled to share some exciting updates, honor our top-performing dealers, and give you a glimpse at what’s ahead for 2026. Whether you’re a Diamond Dealer or just getting started with Empire State Warranty, there’s never been a better time to grow with us. Let’s dive in!
💎 2025 Diamond Dealers Announced!
📣 The results are in — our 2025 Diamond Dealers (in no particular order):
- Frank Siena’s Auto Sales
- Nimey’s New Generation Cars
- Exit5 Auto Group
- Lusso Motors
- Queensbury Auto Mall
- Tecforce Automotive
- Licari Motorcar
These dealers have secured their place at our exclusive Diamond Dealer Event, held in June 2026 at The Sagamore Resort in Lake George, NY.
Not on the list this year? Don’t worry — other awards like Rookie Dealer of the Year are still up for grabs. Bronze, Silver, and Gold-ranked dealers also unlock performance-based perks throughout the year.
🎉 Congratulations to all our Diamond Dealers — your results speak for themselves.
⏮ End-of-Year Recap + What’s Ahead
In 2025, the ESW dealer family doubled in size — and together, we unlocked more back-end revenue than ever before. This year, we’re rolling out:
- ⚙️ New, innovative products
- 🎯 Performance-based discounts
- 🏆 A bigger and better Diamond Dealer Event
Let’s make this your best year yet.
🏁 The Race to Diamond 2026 Starts Now
The scoreboard has reset — as of January 1, 2025, the 2026 Diamond Dealer Race is underway.!
2026’s competition includes:
- 💎 Attendance at next year’s diamond dealer event (2027)
- 💸 Up to 100% off tools like the F&I Menu
- 🧠 Exclusive F&I Training Events with Rehard & Associates
- 🧴 Potential product discounts on categories like shop chemicals
We’re committed to rewarding growth. Stay engaged with your BDE to see where you stand — sometimes just 1 or 2 extra contracts can bump you to the next tier.
📊 2026 Auto Industry Trends to Watch
As we plan for the year ahead, here are 5 key forces shaping the market, according to Cox Automotive:
- 1️⃣ Bifurcated Consumer: High-income vs. low-income buying habits are diverging — value and affordability are more important than ever.
- 2️⃣ Fragmented Labor Market: Slower job growth may impact first-time buyers and entry-level vehicle demand.
- 3️⃣ Rate Uncertainty: Interest rates are expected to dip, but long-term affordability remains tight.
- 4️⃣ EV Market Shift: Expiring tax incentives + rising used EV inventory = market shake-up.
- 5️⃣ AI Acceleration: Dealers that embrace AI for pricing, lead engagement, and transparency will thrive.
Cox Automotive also forecasts tight used vehicle inventory for 2026, but steady demand due to affordability concerns pushing consumers to lower-priced vehicles.
🔍 At ESW, we’re keeping a close eye on these shifts — and tailoring our products and training to help you adapt.
Read the full report here: Cox Automotive 2026 Forecast →
— Bob Hooey
