
Hendrick Automotive Expands Its South Carolina Footprint
In a significant move, Hendrick Automotive Group, the largest privately held auto retailer in the U.S., has announced plans to acquire Love Automotive, a decision poised to strengthen its presence in South Carolina. This acquisition, expected to finalize by July, will add two more dealerships—Love Chevrolet and Love GMC—bringing Hendrick's total to 13 locations across the state.
Rick Hendrick, chairman and CEO of Hendrick Automotive Group, expressed pride in continuing the legacy of the Love family, who founded the business in 1961. These dealerships are not just points of sale but integral parts of the Columbia community, embodying values of integrity and a commitment to service. Hendrick emphasized that maintaining the existing leadership and staff at Love Automotive is a key component of their transition, ensuring that the established customer trust continues. “We’re committed to taking care of our new teammates and continuing to earn the trust of customers who’ve counted on these dealerships for decades,” he stated.
Celebrating Excellence in Auto Dealerships
This acquisition comes at a time when other dealerships in the region are also being recognized for their outstanding service. For instance, Howard Bentley Buick GMC in Albertville, Alabama, recently clinched its 10th consecutive Dealer of the Year award from General Motors. According to Jaclyn McQuaid, GM’s global vice president of Buick and GMC, such recognition highlights not just sales performance, but the enduring customer relationships that these dealers foster.
“The dedication and enthusiasm that the Howard Bentley Buick GMC team puts into every day is key to building great relationships with our customers,” McQuaid noted. Taylor Bentley Conner, the dealer principal, attributed their success to a relentless focus on customer satisfaction, emphasizing that the small-town dealership culture delivers hassle-free experiences that keep customers returning.
Honda’s Top Performers Recognized
Meanwhile, commendations aren't limited to GM, as Car Pros Automotive Group has once again made headlines with its Honda dealership in El Monte, earning Honda’s Sales Circle of Excellence Award for the third consecutive time. This accolade places them among Honda’s top 50 sales leaders, showcasing the dealership’s remarkable performance and customer service standards. The recognition speaks volumes about the competitive landscape within the automotive sales industry, where excellence is rewarded and acknowledged across different brands.
Embracing Change in the Automotive Landscape
The automotive retail industry is evolving rapidly, facing challenges and changes that require agility and adaptation. Dealerships like Hendrick Automotive, Howard Bentley Buick GMC, and Car Pros are setting benchmarks in customer service, highlighting the importance of community ties, integrity, and persistent dedication to excellence.
For dealership owners and general managers looking for ways to thrive in this competitive environment, learning from these successful models can provide valuable insights. Focusing on building relationships with customers, fostering a positive workplace culture, and actively participating in community development are strategies that can yield long-term benefits.
If you're in the automotive sales industry, now is the time to reassess your business strategies. By prioritizing customer satisfaction and community engagement, you can secure a brighter future for your dealership.
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