AUBURN HILLS, Mich., March 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- In the highly competitive environment of automobile sales, dealerships are continually challenged to run a successful operation by selling more cars, performing vehicle service and creating an enjoyable customer experience -- while trying to earn a respectable profit.
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At its inaugural Dealer of the Year event, the Chrysler Group announced three dealers as its first national Dealers of the Year:
Golling Chrysler, Jeep(R) Dodge (Bloomfield Hills, Mich.), was recognized as national Dealer of the Year in the largest category of dealers who sell the Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge brands at their location. Bill Golling, III is the dealer principal, and second-generation dealer who began working in the car business at 15 years old. In 2005, he opened a brand-new, 83,000 square foot dealership facility. Golling Chrysler, Jeep Dodge was the Chrysler Group's third largest dealer as measured by sales in 2005.
Brown-Daub Motors (Easton, Pa.), was named as national Dealer of the Year in the category of dealers who carry the Chrysler and Jeep brands. Frank Gerenser, III is the dealer principal of Brown-Daub Motors. He is a current member of the Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, and in 2004, received an award from the Saints Youth Center of Easton for his involvement in Easton area youth programs.
Jerry Ulm Dodge, Inc. (Tampa, Fla.), was recognized as National Dealer of the Year in the Dodge category. Jerry Ulm, Jr. is the dealer principal and former president of the Tampa New Auto Dealers Association. In 1995 he was named Time Magazine Quality Dealer Award winner.
"These award-winning dealers represent the best-of-the-best and provide the model for all our dealerships," said Joe Eberhardt, Executive Vice President, Global Marketing, Sales and Service - Chrysler Group. "We used comprehensive measurement methods to evaluate each dealership, and each of the winners rose to the top of their respective categories. We are pleased to recognize them for their achievements."
"I am extremely proud and honored to be recognized by the Chrysler Group as Dealer of the Year," said Bill Golling, III, Dealer Principal with Golling Chrysler, Jeep Dodge, Bloomfield Hills, Mich. "This award is a reflection of the hard work and dedication that our employees exhibit to every customer who visits our dealership."
Each of the winning dealers were evaluated using an objective scorecard measurement process that assigned a point value in multiple categories adding up to an overall point score. To be eligible for Dealer of the Year, dealers needed to have a score of 650 points or above, on a 1,000 point scale. Additionally, they needed to be certified as one of 2,400 Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge Five Star dealers who are distinguished for their attention to detail and superior operational processes while providing a rewarding buying and service experience for customers.
Each of the national Dealer of the Year winners also took first place honors at a regional level, and were evaluated against other regional finalists. In addition to the recognition by the Chrysler Group and among their peers, the three dealerships each will hold a dealership event celebrating the achievement.
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