Episode 66: George Karolis - President, The Presidio Group

The dealership business has changed — and it’s not going back.

In this episode of Full Throttle, Jason Stein sits down with George Karolis to break down what’s really happening inside the automotive retail industry.

From post-COVID profit normalization to the rise of fixed operations, AI-driven efficiency, and the evolving M&A landscape — this conversation goes beyond headlines and into what dealers actually need to understand right now.

One of the biggest takeaways?

👉 The industry is shifting from a people-based business supported by technology… to a technology business supported by people.

📊 What You’ll Learn in This Episode
- Why dealership profits are still well above 2019 levels
- The real drivers behind today’s “new normal” profitability
- Why parts & service now dominate profit growth
- How AI and automation are reshaping dealership operations
- The surprising truth about Carvana vs traditional dealers
- Why consolidation is happening slower than expected (and what 2060 has to do with it)
- What’s fueling the surge in dealership buy/sell activity
- Why earnings matter more than multiples in valuations

🚗 The Big Picture
Despite margin compression, the industry has found a sustainable new baseline — driven by smarter operations, stronger fixed ops, and rapidly advancing technology.

But with more buyers than deals, rising competition, and shifting consumer dynamics, the next phase of automotive retail will reward those who adapt fastest.

🎙️ About the Podcast

The Presidio Group’s Podcast Full Throttle features in-depth conversations with the leaders shaping the future of automotive retail.