Dec. 4, 2025

“Retail Is Detail!” — Why Todd Blue Returned to Luxury Retail and the Model He’s Building Now | Todd Blue, Dealer Principal of Mercedes-Benz of Northern Arizona and CEO of LAPIS

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“Retail Is Detail!” — Why Todd Blue Returned to Luxury Retail and the Model He’s Building Now | Todd Blue, Dealer Principal of Mercedes-Benz of Northern Arizona and CEO of LAPIS

Today I’m joined by Todd Blue, Dealer Principal of Mercedes-Benz of Northern Arizona and CEO of LAPIS.

We break down how luxury dealerships can truly differentiate in a crowded market and why direct customer engagement still drives outsized loyalty.

Todd opens up about leverage, market cycles, and why he exited his business at its peak. We also explore what it really takes to elevate underperforming stores and thrive even when the economy turns.


This episode is brought to you by:

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3. CDG Circles - A modern peer group for auto dealers. Private dealer chats. Real insights — confidential, compliant, no travel required. Visit @ https://cdgcircles.com to learn more.


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Topics:

00:15 How did Todd Blue's early life shape him?

00:41 Vanity plates: funniest or most memorable?

02:57 Why re-enter the car business?

13:54 Key to building a luxury empire?

20:22 How to handle ultra-wealthy clients?

25:03 Delivering a premium experience: how?

28:52 Secret to building a successful team?

32:29 Why sell a successful business?

46:35 Navigating economic uncertainty: best strategy?


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