Meet the Speaker: Chris Hardy
Meet the Speaker: Chris Hardy, VP of XPEL
XPEL is a global manufacturer of high-performance protective films and coatings. paint protection film, ceramic coatings, and window tints trusted by dealers, installers, and drivers worldwide. As VP of XPEL, Chris Hardy works with stores on how they merchandise, how they move metal, and where the margin actually lives. At UNLEASHED26, he takes the stage to make a case most dealers overlook: protection isn’t a line item, it’s a profit strategy.
His take is direct: in a market where everyone’s chasing the same inventory, differentiation is everything — and vehicle protection is one of the most underused ways to create it.
At UNLEASHED26, Chris presents “Protection as Profit: Building Vehicle Protection Into the Dealership Workflow,” joining the VINCUE Product Roadmap discussion to show how protection products fit naturally into the merchandising process rather than bolting on as an afterthought. He’ll cover where protection fits in the modern vehicle merchandising workflow, how dealers can turn accessory and protection offerings into predictable gross instead of one-time add-ons, and how protection helps stores stand out when everyone’s selling the same cars.
Want to learn more? Explore our speakers and sponsors section for more UNLEASHED26 speaker details.
Everything you need to know about VINCUE UNLEASHED 2025
VINCUE: UNLEASHED returns to Kansas City on November 10-12, 2025
VINCUE: UNLEASHED is the premier annual gathering where automotive trailblazers, industry leaders, and VINCUE dealers unite to tackle big challenges, celebrate victories, and ignite fresh ideas. Walk away inspired, equipped, and ready to revolutionize the way you drive success.
When, Where, and What to Expect
Wednesday, October 7 – Friday, October 9, 2026
Back at the Loews Hotel, Kansas City, Missouri
Dealer Registration Starting at $599
Professional Development, Exclusive Training, Peer Networking
Learn from these Industry Trailblazers
Don’t miss this year’s top experts in automotive innovation, technology, leadership, and strategy.
What Dealers are Saying
Hear from dealers who’ve experienced the impact of VINCUE: UNLEASHED firsthand. From unlocking new strategies to forging powerful connections, here’s how past attendees are driving their success:
Hear what real VINCUE dealers thought about their experience at VINCUE: UNLEASHED.
“Thank you!! The organization of the events was top-notch. The lineup of speakers was thoughtfully curated. It was a pleasure to gain valuable perspective and witness the advancements that VINCUE has to offer. I’m particularly excited about how these innovations can contribute to making our daily operations more efficient.”
Brandon Hanson
General Manager, Manchester Mazda
“What a class act the VINCUE UNLEASHED conference was. From the venue, to the speakers to the vendors, all are in first class pioneering the industry on our most critical time. A must have partner for success in 2024!!”
Rudy Padilla
Used Car Sales Director, Toyota of Berkeley
“The VINCUE unleashed user conference blew away any expectations that I had for the event. You could tell it was thoughtfully planned and carefully executed to provide a first-class experience. I left with a better understanding of the platform, new connections with other users and partners, and some personal development.”
Nick Staropoli
Used Car Manager, Freeman Motor Co.
