An Exciting Transition: Sault's Ford Dealership Moves to a New Home
Sault Ste. Marie residents are in for a treat as a beloved local dealership is set to embark on an exciting journey. Highland Ford, a stalwart in the automotive industry 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, a move that promises to bring a host of benefits to the community.
The transition, which took place on January 1, marks a significant milestone. Located at 68 Great Northern Rd., Highland Ford has been a trusted name in the area for decades. Its current owner, Darren Smyl, took the reins in 2011, ensuring the dealership's longevity. Meanwhile, Maitland Ford Lincoln, founded by Maitland Lewis in the 1950s, has been a fixture at 1124 Great Northern Rd. since 1976, becoming a Ford Mercury Lincoln franchise in 1984.
As Judith Lewis-Kovala, a partner at Maitland Ford Lincoln and daughter of Lewis, explains, this merger is more than just a change of address. "It’s not really closing... it’s just joining together the staff and customers," she says. "We're basically going to become one bigger family."
The integration process is well underway, with the aim of completing it by April. "Between now and the end of April we will be moving the Highland Ford staff and inventory to the Maitland Ford Lincoln site," Lewis-Kovala reveals. This move is met with enthusiasm, as it opens up a world of opportunities. "This is very exciting. We are ecstatic about the opportunities that are ahead of us," she adds.
The benefits of this merger extend beyond the dealership itself. By combining resources, the dealership can enhance its service offerings and become more efficient. "We'll be able to provide a better, higher level of service. We've got lots of plans for growth," Lewis-Kovala notes. This expansion will also strengthen the Ford brand in the Sault, making it a one-stop shop for all Ford enthusiasts.
"We'll be able to have more products in one location. People will come to one place," Lewis-Kovala explains. "And we'll have better buying power with parts, just because of our volume put together."
The driving force behind this merger is the dream of Brent, Lewis-Kovala's brother. "He worked his whole life in Maitland Ford Lincoln and he would be happy to see this happen," she shares. This move is a testament to the power of collaboration, bringing together two automotive powerhouses to serve the community better.
The partnership also includes notable figures like Mike Stollery, a silent partner at Maitland Ford Lincoln, and Marc McKinnon, who joins the dealership's management team. "We are very confident in the staff and in the fact that our very strong leadership team can help pull this off," Lewis-Kovala asserts.
As the dealership prepares for its new home, the excitement is palpable. The Highland Ford office space, listed for $6.499 million through EXIT Realty True North, is a testament to the potential of this merger. This transition is a win for the community, the Ford brand, and the dedicated staff and customers alike.
