‘Ask Frenchy’ Returns to Industry Summit, Seeks Competitors
Five F&I professionals will attend Industry Summit as a guest of IAS and veteran trainer Eric ‘Frenchy’ Mélon, who will select finalists for the third annual objection-handling competition and F&I training session.

Five F&I professionals will attend Industry Summit as a guest of IAS and veteran trainer Eric ‘Frenchy’ Mélon, who will select finalists for the third annual objection-handling competition and F&I training session.
Photo courtesy IAS
NEW ORLEANS — Industry Summit will host the “Ask Frenchy” contest for the third straight year at the upcoming 2019 event, set for Nov. 4–6 at the New Orleans Marriott.
“We appreciate IAS and Frenchy Mélon for their support and what has been an exciting addition to the Industry Summit agenda,” said David Gesualdo, show chair and publisher of Bobit Business Media’s Dealer Group. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to recognize F&I professionals dedicated to the mastery of their craft.”
Sponsored by IAS and hosted by the company’s president of sales and veteran F&I trainer Eric “Frenchy” Mélon, the contest invites F&I managers and directors to share the most challenging objection or question posed to them by a customer.
Read: Technology Challenge Set for Second Round at Industry Summit 2019
Mélon will hand-select five finalists. They will participate in a live training session slash competition at Industry Summit; each will be offered free registration and accommodations at the New Orleans Marriott. The winner will be honored at the special awards ceremony that closes the event on Wednesday, Nov. 6.
“Industry Summit is an event I look forward to every year. I can’t wait to hear some of your toughest objections and share more knowledge on how to turn those objections into a ‘yes’,” Mélon said. “In an increasingly competitive industry, it’s more important than ever before to work on our techniques.”
Event organizers encourage prospective participants to begin developing their submissions now. The contest will run from Sept. 19 until Oct. 4, and winners will be notified on Oct. 11. Finalists must be available to travel to New Orleans Nov. 4–6 to participate.
More Showroom

Mitsubishi Unveils U.S. Plan
The automaker announced a strategy that includes an expanded lineup and dealership presence, along with more ‘rugged’ and electric models.
Read More →
Used Lots Getting the Business
Many consumers are seeking out the units to save money, and the demand – higher in July than normal – is keeping supply limited and prices up.
Read More →
Used Market Stabilizes
The Carfax Used Car Index noted a major drop in used-vehicle price increases in July after several months of hikes.
Read More →
California Hybrids Reach State Record
The Golden State still leads the country in electric-vehicle registrations, but much like the rest of the U.S. its hybrid market share is up while full electrics stabilize after a dramatic first-quarter dip.
Read More →
My Mercedes in the U.S.
The German brand debuted its studio dealership concept for the first time in the states in Los Angeles, tapping Americans’ penchant for creative distinctions.
Read More →
Used Sales Hit Summer Drag
The vacation season, combined with high prices, has dented deliveries and added to inventories, though supply is still slim enough to keep listings elevated.
Read More →
California Launches EV Rebate Program
Participating automakers are matching the state's $13.5 million investment in new electric-vehicle rebates scheduled to take effect later this summer.
Read More →
OEM Poll Sees Industry Evolution
Kerrigan Advisors’ survey of automakers finds that tariffs, technology, network tightening and other factors are poised to reshape auto retail.
Read More →
The Trade-In Paradox
Retailing older cars with confidence in today’s market is a matter of establishing and following a clear process that can turn greater profit for auto dealers as they aim to meet used-unit hunger.
Read More →
Focus on Vehicle Cabins
The market for interior materials will grow in coming years as automakers look to meet consumer demand while staying competitive with changeups to sourcing and included features.
Read More →