Based on the last report, it seems that if Chrysler were to get their house in order, it could have decent upside potential for LAD. Im inclined to think in a recovering economy, something could actually go right for vehicle sales.
"Lithia's Chairman and CEO, commented, "Our fourth quarter results were impacted by weak new vehicle sales at our Chrysler stores. This was caused by the delay in the release of new products, like the 2010 Ram heavy duty pickup, and lower advertising and incentive spending by Chrysler which slowed floor traffic. In response, we focused on increasing used vehicle sales at the affected locations. We also improved new vehicle sales of our other brands. Excluding Chrysler, we had approximately 18.5% new vehicle same store sales growth over the fourth quarter of 2008. On an adjusted basis, we were profitable in the fourth quarter, despite significant headwinds." |
