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RUSS AND CRAIG CRAIG AND BRIAN

time at other events, asking people what they liked and top automakers involved in the events. I expanded on
what they didn’t like. I looked at the way other people ran that vision even further, adding Internet bidding, live
their businesses and soaked it all up like a sponge. television coverage, Thrill Rides, hundreds of exhibitors –
everything that is around the lifestyle of cars in a festival
The first person who stepped up to help was Steve
Davis, who started out as a consignor and now serves atmosphere that is very unique.
as president of Barrett-Jackson. He’s always been a part I feel quite gratified when I speak with movers and
of the family. When my brother passed, it was a tough shakers in the automotive industry and they tell me the
moment in time for me, and Steve was one of the first static “car show” isn’t that appealing anymore, nor is
ones who put up his hand and said, “Tell me how I can an all-virtual scenario. Barrett-Jackson has become the
help.” That’s a team player, and that’s Steve Davis. evolution of the auto show. Manufacturers recognize the
need for an interactive experience, where people come
My mother helped tremendously; she was always such
a force of stability, opening up the office every day and have multiple things to do, look at new products,
and keeping the books. She passed away in 2010 and I watch the unveil of a new vehicle, and take part in the
still miss her. I am so fortunate that my wife Carolyn, excitement when a brand-new VIN 001 car sells on the
who serves as Barrett-Jackson’s Vice President of Brand auction block for a great charitable cause. All that comes
Strategy, has that same incredible drive for the auctions together now at one place on the planet: Barrett-Jackson.
and love for the people in this industry. She is great The Barrett-Jackson brand is incredibly important to me,
at helping me work through decisions and at staying because it stands for credibility. I want my legacy to be that
even-keeled and focused. One thing I’ve learned in this we’ve incorporated the most ethics and transparency into
business is that sometimes the right decision and the the collector car industry. We do our absolute best to guide
more financially advantageous decision aren’t always the consignors into presenting their vehicles as accurately as
same decision. You’ve got to pivot; you’ve got to decide. possible to create an atmosphere that is fair and even across
You’ve got to do what’s right. the board. The results speak for themselves: the cars are
selling, breaking records, and what they sell for is the true
The company made some tough decisions back in the
1990s. But, looking back, they were the right decisions. price in the marketplace today.
My goal, as I saw it, was bringing new people into the It makes new people coming into the hobby feel
hobby, and I think that’s been achieved by continuing comfortable; it makes everyone come and enjoy
my brother’s vision of getting corporate America and themselves. Barrett-Jackson is very much about the

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