Rick Hendrick to Receive Industry Leader Award at New York Auto Forum Ceremony

Rick Hendrick Honored with Industry Leader Award at New York Auto Forum

Introduction

In an upcoming prestigious event, the Automotive Hall of Fame (AHF) will award Rick Hendrick, the esteemed chairman and CEO of Hendrick Automotive Group, with the Industry Leader Award in Retail. This recognition will take place during the New York Auto Forum this March, with Cox Automotive as the presenting partner for the second consecutive year.

A Legacy of Leadership

The Industry Leader Award, established in 1982, honors individuals whose vision and contributions have had a significant impact on the automotive landscape. Rick Hendrick is being celebrated for his exceptional influence on automotive retail, highlighting his decades-long leadership in establishing one of the most respected dealership organizations in the United States.

The award presentation is set to be a notable moment at the New York Auto Forum. Hendrick will engage in a fireside chat with Steve Rowley, President of Cox Automotive, where they will discuss pivotal themes of leadership, transformation within the automotive sector, and the future of automotive retail.

Hendrick's Reflections on Success

Expressing gratitude for this significant honor, Hendrick shared, "I'm truly humbled to be recognized by the Automotive Hall of Fame. I've had the privilege of working alongside incredible people across our dealerships and racing teams who hold themselves to the highest standards and take pride in serving our customers and communities."

Reflecting on his journey, he stated, "I've always said I'm the luckiest guy in the world because I get to make a living doing two things I love – selling cars and racing cars. Anything we've accomplished is the result of talented teammates, enduring partnerships, and a shared commitment to excellence."

As 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of Hendrick Automotive Group, Hendrick acknowledged that this recognition is also a tribute to everyone who played a part in building the organization.

A Standout Achievement

Steve Rowley praised Hendrick, stating, "Rick Hendrick is the definition of an American success story. He has built his 50-year legacy not just on sales figures, but on the relationships he has forged with customers, employees, and communities alike." Rowley emphasized Hendrick's commitment to integrity and people-first leadership, which has set a benchmark in the industry.

Additionally, Sarah Cook, President of the Automotive Hall of Fame, remarked on the profound impact Hendrick has had on automotive retail, saying, "His entrepreneurial vision and the culture he has fostered across Hendrick Automotive Group have shaped the industry in meaningful ways. We are proud to honor him with this distinction alongside Cox Automotive."

Celebrating Innovation and Leadership

The partnership between the Automotive Hall of Fame and Cox Automotive underlines the shared commitment to recognizing exceptional leadership and innovation within the automotive industry. Together, they aim to celebrate the figures who have significantly contributed to advancing the industry.

Conclusion

As preparations for the award ceremony are underway, the automotive community eagerly anticipates recognizing Rick Hendrick's exemplary career and dedication to excellence in automotive retail. His story serves as an inspiration to many, and his influence will surely reverberate within the industry for generations to come.

For more information on the Automotive Hall of Fame and its mission, visit automotivehalloffame.org.