Earlier today I tweeted the following: “All you Jazz fans who jumped off the wagon until we trade everyone: Come on back. You’re missing some great ball games.” It was my way of having a little good natured interaction with all of the fans who expressed their frustration to me, and offered all kinds of advice when we (the Jazz) were slumpling earlier this month.
My point is: it’s a long season and we’re going to have ups and downs.
What matters most is what happens in the long run.
Interestingly, in light of Toyota’s announcement regarding the “stop sale” of eight models yesterday, I find myself and our automotive organization in a similar position to that of the fans relative to the Utah Jazz. That is, we have had a relationship with the franchise for many years (my dad started working at a Toyota store in 1970), and have greatly enjoyed and benefitted from that relationship, for the most part, during that time. There have been a few challenges and low points over the years, but in the macro it has certainly been positive.
As we now face the challenge of how to operate multiple Toyota dealerships profitably, with 55-60 percent of our inventory temporarily “off limits”, it would be easy for me to get frustrated and angry with Toyota, especially considering the investment we have in those inventories, our facilities, and the potential adverse impact it may have on our employees. But when I consider Toyota’s track record, it is very clear to me that they are an organization that I want to be associated with for the long run. There is no doubt in my mind they will succeed.
I hope Utah Jazz fans feel the same way about us, and I feel a deep sense of gratitude for those who do.
I’m now posting updates on Twitter at Twitter.com/greginutah