A local car dealership's exciting journey: a new chapter begins!
The story of Highland Ford and its future with Maitland Ford Lincoln
In a move that has the community buzzing, Highland Ford, a beloved fixture in Sault Ste. Marie since the late 1960s, is not closing its doors but rather embarking on a new chapter. The dealership has been acquired by Maitland Ford Lincoln, and the transition is set to bring about some significant changes.
Highland Ford, located at 68 Great Northern Rd., has been a trusted name in the automotive industry for decades. Its most recent owner, Darren Smyl, took over in 2011, continuing a legacy that began with Maitland Lewis in the 1950s. Maitland Ford Lincoln, situated at 1124 Great Northern Rd., has been a Ford Mercury Lincoln franchise since 1984.
But here's where it gets controversial: Judith Lewis-Kovala, a partner at Maitland Ford Lincoln and the daughter of Lewis, assures us that this is not a closure but a unification. "It's not closing; it's a coming together of staff and customers," she says. "We're becoming one big family."
The transition process is already underway, and by the end of April, Highland Ford's staff and inventory will be fully integrated into the Maitland Ford Lincoln site. Lewis-Kovala is ecstatic about the opportunities this merger presents.
"This is very exciting! We're looking forward to providing an even better, higher-level service to our community. We have big plans for growth, and this merger will allow us to be more efficient and offer a stronger Ford brand presence in the Sault."
And this is the part most people miss: the benefits of this merger go beyond just the dealerships. By combining their resources, they'll be able to offer a wider range of products and services under one roof, making it more convenient for customers. Plus, with increased buying power for parts, they can provide even better value.
"It was my brother Brent's dream to have the dealerships under one roof," Lewis-Kovala shares. "He dedicated his life to Maitland Ford Lincoln, and I know he'd be thrilled to see this come to fruition."
The merger also strengthens the Ford brand's position in the Sault, ensuring its continued success and ability to serve the community. Lewis-Kovala expresses confidence in the staff and leadership team to make this transition a smooth and successful one.
As for the future of the Highland Ford office space, it's listed for sale at $6.499 million through EXIT Realty True North. This move is part of the dealership's overall growth strategy.
So, what do you think about this exciting development? Is it a positive step for the community and the automotive industry in Sault Ste. Marie? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
