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Megadealer's sales jump 14 percent

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:27:48 -0700

Megadealer's sales jump 14 percent

By Hubble Smith
LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL

Posted: Jan. 31, 2012 | 2:01 a.m.
Updated: Jan. 31, 2012 | 8:31 a.m.

Las Vegas-based Findlay Automotive Group reported a 14 percent increase in sales for 2011, the first year of positive numbers since 2007, Chief Operating Officer Tyler Corder said Monday.

Consumers have been keeping cars longer, with an average age of 10.8 years for vehicles on the road, but as the economy improves, more people are buying new, he said.

"Car sales significantly declined in 2008 and 2009, and I think it's safe to say that we have come a long way since the decline started," he said.

Findlay Automotive sold more than 25,000 new vehicles at its 25 dealerships in Nevada, Arizona, Utah and Idaho, up from about 22,000 in 2010, Corder said. Findlay has 14 dealerships in Southern Nevada alone.

Along with more vehicle sales, Findlay has seen an increase in revenue from service and parts departments, Corder said.

The company beefed up its workforce by 15 percent, or 183 employees, and opened a new Volkswagen dealership in northwest Las Vegas and a Lamborghini dealership in Henderson in 2011.

The company's website recorded 653,000 inquiries from August through December, compared with about 400,000 inquiries in the same period of the previous year. There were almost 90,000 mobile hits on iPhones, iPads and tablets, said John Taylor, who handles Findlay's Internet marketing.

"In the car business today, many of the first signs of interest in purchasing a car is done via the Internet," he said. "Chances are that if the hit is via a mobile (device), the customer is usually on the lot."

Byron Klemaske, general manager of Findlay Kia at 5325 W. Sahara Ave., said business was up 80 percent at his dealership. His biggest concern in 2011 was that he couldn't get enough new cars to sell.

Automotive analysts predict new vehicle sales of 13.5 million to 14 million in 2012, up from 12.8 million last year.

There are several reasons why automobile dealers could see a breakout year.

The United States is going to add about 2.3 million new drivers annually, or roughly 50 million more drivers by 2035, Portland Cement Association chief economist Ed Sullivan projected at last week's World of Concrete trade show in Las Vegas.

With more cars being scrapped and cars on the street getting older, there's pent-up consumer demand for new cars.

Roughly 77 cars are registered in the United States for every 100 people, according to automotive industry analyst R.L. Polk & Co. That's down from 80 cars per 100 people in 2007, but up from the low 70s in the early part of the decade.

One thing that's key for new car buyers is availability of credit, Corder said. Qualified buyers have more options today as automobile finance companies that left Las Vegas during the worst of the recession have returned, he said.

"It got really tough to get a car loan in 2008 and 2009. We've found that finance has gotten more competitive. A lot of lenders are now more aggressive on what they'll approve to get their foot back in the door," Corder said.

Contact reporter Hubble Smith at hsmith@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0491.

Findlay Toyota Sponsors Findlay Prep vs. Bishop Gorman High School Basketball Game � Tickets Going Fast

Sat, 31 Dec 2011 20:59:20 -0700

�� Media contact: Rick Glenn, (702) 498-8778

rglenn@findlayauto.com

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Findlay Toyota Sponsors Findlay Prep vs. Bishop Gorman High School Basketball Game — Tickets Going Fast

Las Vegas, January 4, 2012— In what could be a prelude to a 2012 national high school basketball title, nationally ranked 3rd by ESPN’s Powerade Fab 50, Findlay College Prep, will play the top-ranked team in Nevada, Bishop Gorman High School, on Saturday, January 21, 2012 at the Cox Pavilion at 2 p.m. Prior to the main event, Coronado High School will play Foothill High School at 12 noon and Rib�t Academy will play Saint Bonaventure High School at 10 a.m. The Findlay Prep vs. Bishop Gorman game will also include a dunk contest at halftime featuring local high school basketball players.

These high school basketball games, dubbed the BCS Challenge – Big City Showdown, are presented by Findlay Toyota. Proceeds benefit American Heart Walk and Best Buddies of Nevada.

The Bishop Gorman High School basketball team is the number one ranked team in Nevada and have had this game marked on their calendar for some time. “We’re looking forward to the challenge of playing Findlay Prep again,” said Gorman Coach Grant Rice. “Last year’s game was one of the best basketball games of the year! The sold out crowd at the Cox Pavilion is a memory our team will never forget.”

Mike Peck, Coach for Findlay Prep, had this to say, “We have the utmost respect for Bishop Gorman and the way they play the game. Shabazz will be a challenge our team has been anticipating. Another match-up versus Gorman at the Cox Pavilion has all the makings of a legendary high school basketball game.”

BCS Challenge tickets are $30, $20 and $15 depending on the location area of the assigned seat. Student tickets are $10 with a valid student ID. Tickets are now on sale at UNLVtickets.com, with a limited number of discounted tickets available at Findlay Toyota. Last year’s adrenaline-fueled game saw two overtimes and a Findlay Prep buzzer beater to take home the win. This year’s level of intensity won’t be any different.

Findlay Toyota is sponsoring the BCS Challenge to showcase the area’s most talented high school players. Rick Glenn, marketing director of Findlay Toyota said, “The BCS Challenge is great because you get to see three games, including a match-up between two of the top ranked teams in the country! The competitiveness and skill of these teams, always makes for an exciting, heart-pounding series. Our hope is that the best players will choose to stay in town and play for the Runnin’ Rebels.”

Glenn may get his wish. UNLV is actively recruiting players from both teams with the Findlay side including: top ranked players, Anthony Bennett, Winston Shepard, 7-footer Matthew Willms, as well as UNLV commit junior Christian Wood. The Bishop Gorman side is stacked with local talent, including top players Shabazz Muhammad, Rosco Allen, 6'9" Demetris Morant and Ben Carter. The coach for Bishop Gorman is Grant Rice, the brother of current UNLV coach Dave Rice.

About Findlay College Prep

Findlay College Prep (www.FindlayPrep.com) at the Henderson International School is a program for exceptional student basketball athletes to receive a top-notch educational experience while creating the opportunity for each student to attend the college or university of their choice. Founded in 1932 in Henderson, Nevada, the Henderson International School is a college preparatory school with comprehensive academic, athletic and artistic programs for students in pre-school through twelfth grade.

About Findlay Automotive Group

Findlay Automotive Group (www.FindlayAuto.com) was founded by the late Pete Findlay in 1961 when he arrived in the Las Vegas Valley from Panaca to open Pete’s Used Cars on Boulder Highway. Findlay’s son, Cliff Findlay, now spearheads Findlay’s 22 dealerships in Nevada, Arizona, Utah and Idaho. Findlay Toyota is the dominant dealership in the Las Vegas valley and is headed by Rich Abajian, former football coach for the University of Nevada Las Vegas.

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Henderson company prepares for opening of Audi Reno Tahoe

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 12:09:53 -0700

Henderson company prepares for opening of Audi Reno Tahoe
Rob Sabo, 12/19/2011

When John Coats, sales and used car manager for Audi Henderson, was asked to attend a coffee meeting by his boss earlier this year, his first thought was, “Man, what did I do?”

“I went there thinking I was in trouble,” Coats says.

Instead, Coats was asked to move to Reno to open and run Audi Reno Tahoe, which is scheduled to open in early January at 9190 S. Virginia St. Coats, 40, will be the general manager of the Audi Reno Tahoe, part of Findlay Auto Group of Henderson.

Findlay Auto Group purchased the building in South Reno out of foreclosure. It formerly housed the Audi and Mitsubishi dealerships formerly owned by Allison Automotive Group. Although it’s the first northern Nevada dealership for Findlay, the dealership has 25 locations throughout southern Nevada, Arizona, Idaho and Utah.

There’s still plenty of work to do at Audi Reno Tahoe to prepare for its reopening. Workers have repainted the interior, added T-5 lighting in the service area, re-keyed the entire building, and cleaned a year’s worth of weed growth from the 5-acre parcel. Lifts still need to be installed in service bays, the service department needs to be stocked with Audi parts, and of course cars still need to be delivered to the lot.

Coats expects to employ a staff of 23, including six sales positions. He’s already chosen his office, finance and service managers, but there are still 18 key positions to fill, he says. He’s currently interviewing service technicians, including experienced Audi mechanics.

Coats, who started with Findlay Auto Group in 2002 as Internet sales manager, says multiple groups from Reno and out of the region were vying to represent the Audi franchise, which has been absent from Reno for about a year. Findlay’s success with its newer Audi dealership in Henderson was one of the main reasons Findlay was awarded the dealership, Coats says.

“In the few years that it has been open it has had a lot of success and won a lot of awards for volume, customer service and turn rates. For as little time as we were open we came quite a ways.”

Coats hopes his ties to northern Nevada help spur sales of the German-made cars. Coats grew up in Sparks and graduated from Reed High School in 1990, but he left the region in 1991.

“I couldn’t believe it — the chance to move home and be general manager of an Audi store — obviously I jumped at that chance,” he says. “I am happy to be here and happy to be back in this community. I have a lot of friends and connections in this area, and hopefully the word spreads among them and travels fast.

“With the relationships I have, hopefully they send in referrals and that increases business. It has been fun being part of something like this from the ground up, and I look forward to meeting the people of Reno after being gone for so long.”

Findlay North Volkswagen Sponsors Cancer Walk

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 13:54:23 -0600

Findlay North Volkswagen Delivers Vehicle One

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 16:12:18 -0600

The doors are open and Findlay North Volkswagen is doing what it does best, selling cars. The first vehicle sold was a 2012 Golf TDI to Jane Romero. Not only was this the first vehicle sold at Findlay North Volkswagen, but it was also the first new car for Ms. Romero.

"I love this car. I did a lot of research and the Golf TDI easily made my short list. From there it was just a matter of determining which vehicle I liked the best." Said Romero. "The Golf TDI has it all, it's the most comfortable car I ever sat in, it gets up to 42 mpg, and it's quiet and just a blast to drive. I couldn't be happier."

When asked about the buying experience she said it also was a dream. "The people were so friendly. I did a lot of research and they were very patient and accommodating during my decision making process." Romero doesn't hesitate referring anyone to Findlay North Volkswagen.
Findlay North Volkswagen is located at 7500 Azure Dr. Las Vegas 89130

Sales hours are Monday through Saturday 8 AM to 9 PM. Service hours are Monday through Friday 7 AM to 6 PM , Saturday 8 AM to 3 PM.

Associated Multimedia�Photo Caption: Jane Romero (L) takes delivery of her 2012 Golf TDI from Findlay North Volkswagen general manager, James Cobbs. ��

Findlay North Volkswagen Grand Opening

Sat, 03 Sep 2011 15:34:37 -0600

The Findlay Automotive Group opened its second Volkswagen dealership Labor Day weekend. The new dealership, Findlay North Volkswagen is located in Centennial Hills in the Northwest area of Las Vegas.

"We're really excited about this dealership," said General Manager James Cobbs. "There are a lot of Volkswagen owners in this area but until we opened there was not a dealer to support them. We're here to change that."

Volkswagen owners are passionate about the brand. Whether it's a classic air-cooled vehicle or the current water-cooled line, Volkswagen has something for almost everyone. When you buy a Volkswagen you become part of a family. It's not uncommon to see a Volkswagen owner flashing a "V" or peace sign to another Volkswagen owner.

In celebration of the dealership's grand opening, the Las Vegas Volkswagen Club has put two vehicles on display in the showroom; a modified 1967 VW Beetle and a 1956 VW Beetle. Both cars have been featured in national magazines.

Findlay North Volkswagen is located at 7500 Azure Dr. Las Vegas 89130

Sales hours are Monday through Saturday 8 AM to 9 PM. Service hours are Monday through Friday 7 AM to 6 PM , Saturday 8 AM to 3 PM.

Findlay Cadillac - 2010 Cadillac Dealer of the Year

Sun, 01 May 2011 08:38:47 -0600

Findlay Cadillac receives prestigious Dealer of the Year Award�� Findlay Cadillac, a state-of-the-art dealership situated in the Valley Automall, has been lauded by General Motors as Cadillac Dealer of the Year for 2010.�� The prestigious award is presented to only 20 of the 1,300 General Motors dealers nationwide.�� “It is based on sales and customer satisfaction,” explained Findlay Cadillac General Manager John Saksa. “We achieved this through a lot of teamwork. Nobody here has just one job and everyone wears a lot of hats to make sure the customer experience is the best that it could be.�� “The award represents a very select group.”�� During 2010, Findlay Cadillac’s strongest sales came in the SRX Crossover; the CTS sedan and the Escalade. The dealership which opened five years ago has along list of satisfied buyers including at least two who have purchased multiple vehicles.Among the buyers who have bought several cars from Findlay Cadillac are Kelly Smith and Earl Shelton.“I don’t even remember the year I bought my first Escalade,” laughed Smith, who owns Stonewall Publishing. “I have bought ten cars from John dating back to about 2005. I appreciate the great service that I receive and love the Cadillac models.“It’s just so easy and simple to buy cars at Findlay Cadillac. I don’t ever have to worry about second guessing myself.”Shelton has also purchased ten vehicles over the years and has referred so many customers to Findlay Cadillac that he might even be considered a salesman, of sorts.“Cadillacs are very dependable and they are great cars,” said Shelton. “Among my purchases have been an STS, a CTS, an Escalade along with a couple of used cars and a Saab.”The news came via a letter from Mark L. Reuss, president of GeneralMotors North America.�� “Congratulations on winning Dealer of the Year; as you know, this award recognizes the top 2 percent of Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac Dealers by Region,” Reuss wrote addressing Findlay Automotive Group President Cliff Findlay. “To win, a Dealer must be a top performer in Sales and Customer Satisfaction. Dealers must also show commitment to these areas on a long term basis by retaining customers, using only Genuine GM Parts, participating in Standards For Excellence and maintaining compliance with the Essential Brand Elements program requirements. �� “Our team here at General Motors salutes you and your Cadillac team for achieving this extraordinary honor. It is the day in and day out commitment to excellence that accomplishes results like these.“To achieve long term success in a competitive industry like ours, the customer must be at the forefront of all that we do. The Dealer of the Year Award acknowledges this focus above all things. Thank you for your uncompromising dedication to our mutual customer – this commitment is the pathway to our successful future. “

Findlay Cadillac is part of Findlay Automotive Group founded 50 years ago by the late Pete Findlay, whose son, Cliff, now spearheads operations of new and pre-owned vehicle dealerships in Nevada, Utah, Arizona and Idaho.

The four-story, 200,000 square-foot dealership has 51 service bays in an underground department.

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�� Further information can by found at www.findlaycadillac.com or by calling 558-2600.

�Findlay Cadillac was recently named among the top General Motors dealerships in the country. Shown above is Findlay Cadillac General Manager John Saksa with Kelly Smith, who has purchased 10 vehicles from the dealership including this 2011 CTS.

Valley Automall Adapts, Grows During Downturn

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 20:58:55 -0600

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April 11, 2011

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Valley Automall Adapts, Grows During Downturn

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Henderson, Nev. – A lot can change in a decade and a half. Nobody knows that better the Findlay Automotive Group, which opened its first dealership inside the Valley Automall in 1996.�

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“The Valley Automall started small. We were located in a remote, deserted part of town,” said Cliff Findlay who helped start Valley Automall. “The idea was to create a master-planned automotive mall that gave Southern Nevadans the convenience of one-stop centralized shopping.”

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Previously, locals were forced to crisscross the valley, traipsing from dealer to dealer in order to find a full selection of automotive makes and models. Well, no more. Today, the Valley Automall consists of 24 brands across 19 dealerships, including seven Findlay dealerships. And despite the downturn, Valley Automall continues to grow and improve.

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“We’re seeing steady improvement in the economy,” said Tyler Corder, chief financial officer of Findlay Automotive Group. “It’s encouraging to see people car shopping once again. We are seeing double digit sales increase in 2011 over the previous year. ”

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Indeed, Valley Automall recently expanded by adding 28 acres in the last five years. The growth carries the mall east past the U.S. 515/95 Highway in Henderson. Findlay Toyota, for example, opened a new 65,000-square-foot dealership, on 12.4 acres, at 7733 Eastgate Road in 2007.

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A year later, Findlay opened the Audi Henderson dealership across the street. The 30,000-square-foot facility rests on 5.3 acres at 7740 Eastgate Road in Henderson. Audi Henderson this summer will expand its line by offering a new showroom for Lamborghini – the ultra-posh Italian sports car.

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Meanwhile, Saturn of Henderson was recently converted into the Findlay Lincoln dealership. It had been one of Valley Automall’s original dealerships. Findlay Lincoln�at 310 N. Gibson Road has been completely refurbished.

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It joins Findlay’s growing family of seven dealerships inside Valley Automall, including Findlay Acura, Audi Henderson and Lamborghini Las Vegas, Findlay VW, Findlay Toyota, Findlay Cadillac-Saab and Findlay Honda.

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“People have spent the last few years scrimping and saving during the recession. It’s great to see a renewed, albeit, cautious optimism emerge,” said Corder. “Valley Automall has survived and thrived during the last 15 years. We look forward, growing together to meeting the automotive needs for Southern Nevada during the next 15 years.”

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The Valley Automall, the state’s largest and oldest automotive mall, this year celebrates a decade and a half of serving Southern Nevada. The Automall, a proud community partner, offers thousands of new and used vehicles off U.S. 93/95 at Auto Show Drive, or exit Interstate 215 at Gibson Road in Henderson. www.valleyautomall.com

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Valley Automall dealers include Audi Henderson, Chapman Chrysler-Jeep, Courtesy Imports, Courtesy Mazda, Desert BMW, Desert Pontiac-GMC, Findlay Acura, Findlay Cadillac-Saab, Findlay Honda, Findlay Lincoln, Findlay Toyota, Findlay Volkswagen, Ford Country, Henderson Chevrolet, Henderson Nissan, Lexus of Henderson, Mercedes-Benz of Henderson and Towbin Dodge.

Findlay Acura Support Golf Tournament

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 09:07:18 -0700

Findlay Acura Supports Golf Tournament

SPECIAL TO DRIVE

Posted: Feb. 18, 2011 | 2:03 a.m.

Community-minded Findlay Acura executives General Manager James Cobbs and Fleet Internet Manager Jim Donohue participated in the annual Heaven Can Wait Animal Society Valentine's Day golf tournament Monday at South Shore Golf Club at Lake Las Vegas.

A fundraiser for Heaven Can Wait Animal Society, Golf Fore the Love of Pets drew 72 players.

Findlay Acura sponsored the par-3, 177-yard, eighth-hole with a 2011 Acura TSX, which was offered as a prize to anyone who hit a hole-in-one. No one cashed in on the offering although at least three players were within 5 feet on their first shot.

Among the players landing close to the hole were J.P. Ibarreche of Puebla, Mexico; Las Vegas executive Joe Murphy; and Dr. Peter Scully.

"We love being a part of the Heaven Can Wait Animal Society event," said Cobbs. "The organization does so much to help control animal populations while also finding homes for the hundreds of pets that are left behind, especially after a foreclosure."

Valerie Treaster, the animal shelter's director of fundraising, said abandoned pets are at an all-time high due to the bad economy.

"It's awful," she said. "We need all the help we can get and sincerely appreciate the help we received from the folks at Findlay Acura.''

Harold Vosko, one of the co-founders of Heaven Can Wait, said the situation is at epidemic proportions.

"We need to be doing aggressive spay and neutering," Vosko said. "This year we are committed to sterilizing 13,000 cats and dogs. Businesspeople like Findlay Acura who donate and sponsor our cause allow us to reach our goals ever year. Without them, who knows how many animals would be dying?"

Vosko added that more than 30,000 animals die every year in local shelters.

Heaven Can Wait Animal Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eradicating the senseless euthanasia of more than 40,000 animals annually in Southern Nevada. A leader in education and awareness of the principles of responsible pet ownership, the society has saved thousands of animals through its sterilization, rescue and rehabilitation programs including The Feral Cat Clinic, which controls the overpopulation and suffering of feral cats; Ground Zero, which offers affordable spay and neuter programs; It's the Pits, which focuses on the sterilization of pit bull and pit-mixed breeds; Tails to Tails, which fosters children's literacy utilizing trained dogs; and Pups on Parole, which pairs homeless rescue animals with inmates at correctional facilities for rehabilitation and reintroduction into society.

Donohue said that the dealership will always been available to help Heaven Can Wait Animal Society.

"When I got the call saying they could use the help for the golf tournament, we didn't even hesitate," Donohue said. "The current situation as it relates to animals being left behind is terrible and we sincerely appreciate the efforts of everyone at Heaven Can Wait."

Findlay Acura is part of the Findlay Automotive Group founded more than 50 years ago by the late Pete Findlay whose son, Cliff, now spearheads new and preowned automobile dealerships in Nevada, Utah, Arizona and Idaho.

Further information regarding the dealership at 315 Auto Mall Drive in the Valley Automall can be found by calling 982-4100 or visiting www.findlayacura.com.

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Findlay Acura sponsored the eighth hole in the Heaven Can Wait Golf Fore the Love of Pets. Dealership General Manager James Cobbs, from left, Heaven Can Wait Animal Society co-founder Harold Vosko and Findlay Acura Internet and Fleet Manager Jim Donohue show off the potential prize for a hole-in-one.

All In The Family

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 10:50:34 -0700

Robby Findlay had wanted to become a lawyer.

The new general manager of Flagstaff Honda said those dreams quickly ebbed when he sold his first car shortly after finishing his undergraduate degree.

Now 30, he said that selling a silver Volkswagen Beetle to an excited woman was the start of a new life in car sales.

To be honest, it was in his blood all along -- his family owns the Nevada-based Findlay Automotive Group.

Last week, the company "opened" its 23rd dealership -- Findlay Honda. It is their third dealership in the Flagstaff Auto Park.

Findlay said the decision by the owner of Flagstaff Honda, Gary Seley, to sell his dealership to the Findlay Group came from a strong relationship the two men forged, despite the natural rivalry that comes from two dealerships across the street from each other.

Ultimately, Findlay said, the sale was mutually beneficial -- Seley was interested in selling and knew the neighboring business could afford it; Findlay had plans to expand here in Flagstaff.

Findlay wouldn't discuss the terms of the sale or how much he paid for the Honda dealership, which has roughly 35 employees.

Sitting in a temporary office in Findlay Honda, Findlay said the company always had plans to open a third dealership at the auto mall, but initial plans were to open a Saturn dealership.

In fact, the Findlay Automotive Group was in the midst of building the dealership when General Motors announced it would be discontinuing production of the line.

Eventually, the site would became the home to their second dealership, Findlay Volkswagen Flagstaff.

The company also owns the Toyota dealership adjacent to Findlay Honda.

Findlay Automotive Group -- Flagstaff

Findlay Toyota, Findlay Volkswagen and Findlay Honda

Chrysler to make Flag return at auto park

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The Findlay Automotive Group isn't the only auto dealer expanding out at the Flagstaff Auto Park.

Planet Nissan Subaru Jeep owner Scott Baugh said he will open a Planet Chrysler dealership later this summer at the auto mall.

The dealership is expected to be located where the Peaks Mazda dealership currently is.

Co-owner Anthony Demarco with Peaks Mazda said he will close the dealership at the end of January. He blamed the recession for poor sales that led to the closing.

The dealership, started up by a pair of Valley-based businessmen, opened in early 2009.

Baugh said he received official notice from the Chrysler Group roughly two years ago allowing him to sell the vehicles in Flagstaff, but he needed to build a new dealership to sell the two brands.

Official word from Chrysler came only a few weeks after the Detroit-based auto manufacturer severed its ties to the another local dealership, Diamond Dodge Chrysler Hyundai.

Diamond Hyundai closed its doors a few months after losing the Chrysler franchise.

A new Hyundai dealership, Discover Hyundai, opened in 2010 on west Route 66 in the former Flagstaff Honda location.

Baugh said he will hire roughly 30 new employees later this summer to operate the new dealership.

The Planet Nissan Subaru Jeep dealership already does warranty work for an estimated 2,000 Chryslers and Dodges covered by a factory warranty in the greater Flagstaff area.

The recent purchase of Flagstaff Honda and the plan to open a new dealership mean Robby Findlay and Baugh will have control of the entire developed part of the Flagstaff Auto Park.

There are several empty, undeveloped parcels at the auto mall. City officials initially had plans for up to nine dealerships on the site adjacent to the Flagstaff Mall.

Joe Ferguson can be reached at jferguson@azdailysun.com or 556-2253.

Posted in Local on Sunday, January 30, 2011 5:05 am Updated: 10:32 pm. | Tags:

Findlay VW exec celebrates 30th year with company

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 07:14:31 -0700

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�Findlay Automotive Group Chief Financial Officer Tyler Corder, right, congratulates Findlay Volkswagen General Manager James Krumme on 30 years of service.

�In a state dominated by unemployment and turnover, Findlay Volkswagen General Manager James Krumme is happy to be working for the same company that hired him as a lot porter in 1980.

On Jan. 14, the 49-year-old Krumme celebrated 30 years with Findlay Automotive Group, and you can bet that he's not moving on any time soon.

In a state dominated by unemployment and turnover, Findlay Volkswagen General Manager James Krumme is happy to be working for the same company that hired him as a lot porter in 1980.

On Jan. 14, the 49-year-old Krumme celebrated 30 years with Findlay Automotive Group, and you can bet that he's not moving on any time soon.��

"At the time that I wandered into Findlay Oldsmobile at 3024 E. Fremont St. as a teenager, I was attempting to become a professional motocross rider," explained Krumme, a native Las Vegan. "I thought that I could fund my motocross career by getting a job with Findlay Olds. But the motocross career didn't work out because I couldn't commit to it financially, so I unexpectedly found a home with Findlay Automotive Group."

Krumme found himself working as a lot porter in a dealership that Pete Findlay opened in 1961.

"Right off the bat, I liked the fact that Cliff and Ed Findlay were into drag racing," Krumme said, laughing. "All of a sudden, I was working on their race cars, and having the time of my life. I worked as a lot porter for three months, and then worked as a technician working on cars. I did that for 11 years."

After being named service director by Cliff Findlay in 1991, Krumme continued his climb up the ladder at the age of 30. He went to a newly opened Oldsmobile store in the Valley Automall serving as general manager in the mid-1990s.

Eventually, Krumme would become service director of Findlay Volkswagen in 2002. He became general manager of the store in 2008.

"When the economy tanked in the fall of 2008, the Findlay group stuck it out and muddled through the recession," recalled Krumme. "It was a terrible time for all of us, but the entire operation continued to grow. Many car dealers left Las Vegas or shut down their dealerships, and this chain is going as strong as ever.

"There is a level of dedication to this city by Findlay Automotive Group that you just don't find very often. Anywhere you go, people know of the Findlay name. When a person buys a car from this group, they don't have to worry."

Krumme escapes the rigors of the car business by participating in triathlons. He began competing in September of 2009 adding that he realized he needed to stay in shape; and is proud of the fact that he finished one of the hardest Iron Man events in the world on Nov. 7, 2010.

"Staying physically fit is so vitally important especially when you get into your 40s," said Krumme. "By staying fit, I have been able to avoid the stress that takes so many others down. It's all about discipline whether it's the car business or taking care of yourself."

Cliff Findlay lauded his long-time employee.

"We love to see people thrive, and we promote from within," Findlay said. "He is a proven product of our model and he has gone from the bottom position all the way to the top. We love him like a brother, and he's part of the family. He's almost like one of the kids although we need to keep him off the race track."

Findlay Automotive Group has several employees who have been with the company for more than 25 years including courier Charlie Davis; Findlay Toyota GM Rich Abajian; Cliff Findlay Auto Center (Kingman, Ariz.) General Manager Hank Nolte; Bobbie and Dennis Rand, both of Findlay Cadillac; and Findlay Kia Service Manager Bob Williams.

Findlay Automotive Group now has 22 stores in Nevada, Utah, Arizona and Idaho. Findlay Volkswagen is situated in the Valley Automall.

Findlay Automotive Group acquires Flagstaff Honda

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0700

The Findlay Automotive Group has acquired Flagstaff Honda in Flagstaff Arizona. The dealership has been renamed Findlay Honda Flagstaff.

The dealership is located at 5199 Test Drive in the Flagstaff Auto Park. The facility consists of a 23,000 square foot sales and service facility that was constructed in 2008. This is the third Findlay Automotive dealership in Flagstaff and is adjacent to Findlay Toyota Flagstaff and Findlay Volkswagen Flagstaff. The Honda dealership employs approximately 35 people.

Robby Findlay, who has been a Flagstaff resident for several years, is the General Manager of the new dealership. He also oversees Findlay’s Toyota and Volkswagen dealerships in Flagstaff.

“Robby has done an outstanding job for us in Flagstaff,” said Tyler Corder, Findlay Automotive’s chief financial officer. “The efforts of Robby and his team have allowed us to prosper in Flagstaff despite the difficult economy of the past few years. Now that the economy is improving we feel the future there is very bright. Our confidence in the Flagstaff market is what prompted us to acquire the Honda dealership,” said Corder.

Findlay Honda Flagstaff is the 23rd dealership owned by the Findlay Automotive Group. The organization is headquartered in Henderson, Nevada and has dealerships in Arizona, Nevada, Utah and Idaho.

American Heart Association Announcement

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 08:52:24 -0700

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American Heart Association’s Heart Walk Brings Prominent Chair Enthusiastic to Make a DifferenceLAS VEGAS, January 13 – The American Heart Association’s Las Vegas Division is excited to announce that Tyler Corder will serve as chair of the American Heart Association’s 20^th Annual 5k Heart Walk and Run.� The Heart Walk is Saturday, October 15, 2011, at Exploration Park in Mountain’s Edge. A highlight of the event is the 2^nd Annual 5k Heart Run presented by Findlay Toyota. The timed run included more than 250 runners in its inaugural year.�� “These individuals have made significant contributions to improve the cardiovascular health of the state of Nevada,” said Corder.Corder, CFO of Findlay Automotive Group stressed that the dollars raised at the Heart Walk will help fund life-saving research. Findlay Automotive Group and Findlay Toyota have set a precedent with a $15,000 commitment, the largest donation to the Heart Walk so far this year. Findlay Toyota has also pledged to make a donation for every car sold during Nation Heart Month in February, helping raise awareness for women’s heart disease, the #1 killer of women. The American Heart Association invested more than $132 million during fiscal year 2008–09 on research support so people across America can live stronger, healthier lives. Last year, more than a million walkers raised nearly $100 million in 350 Start! Heart Walks across the country.Research funded by the American Heart Association has yielded or contributed to many important innovations — such as CPR, life-extending drugs (including clot-busters), pacemakers, bypass surgery, the heart-lung machine and surgical techniques to repair heart defects. �These and other advances are making it possible for many to call themselves “survivors.”Corder has seen the life-saving experiences that come from American Heart Association research first hand. “A few years ago, my brother nearly died at the age of 50 from a defective heart valve. Thanks to advancements in surgical techniques funded in part by the American Heart Association, my brother is alive and well after heart valve replacement surgery”.It’s his current dedication to fighting this health epidemic he finds so important at this time. “People don’t understand how heart disease and stroke compare to other heath causes,” Corder said. “It’s a more significant health threat than anything else faced by our community.” The Heart Walk will unite over 5,000 participants, including the corporate, medical, social and political communities to show their support for those who have been affected by heart disease and stroke. Corder hopes to raise significant funds to meet the event goal of $300,000, which will assist in research and educational programs. “It’s all about bringing the support and donations in. The facts speak for themselves,” he said. For more information about the Heart Walk, call the American Heart Association Las Vegas Division at (702) 367-1366 or visit www.lasvegasheartwalk.org. �###

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About the American Heart Association
Founded in 1924, we’re the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to building healthier lives, free of heart disease and stroke.� To help prevent, treat and defeat these diseases — America’s No. 1 and No. 3 killers — we fund cutting-edge research, conduct lifesaving public and professional educational programs, and advocate to protect public health.� To learn more or join us in helping all Americans, call 1-800-AHA-USA1 or visit americanheart.org.

BEST TIME TO BUY A CAR

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 12:03:54 -0700

HENDERSON, Nev. -- If you've been thinking about buying a new car, this may be the week to do it. This is the busiest week of the year for dealerships across the valley and they are offering huge incentives to customers in order to get their end of the year numbers up.

Cecil Acosta and his son have been looking for a new car for months but today their search is over. "He showed us a couple of brands of car and within one hour we had the one we wanted," said�Acosta who says he couldn't say no to zero percent financing and a cash rebate.

Consider this a week long Black Friday for car dealerships. Findlay Toyota General Manager Rich Abajian is expecting to sell 150 cars this week doubling that of a normal week at his Henderson dealership.

"The manufacturers are all competing for bragging rights so they come out with tremendous incentives," said Abajian. "The dealers are all trying to hit their quotas so they add their own incentives and really wheel and deal during that period."

But Abajian says consumers also have their reasons for waiting until the last week of the year.

"For the consumer, their trade in is one year newer as opposed to waiting until next year when you are into 2011."

But more importantly, consumer spending is up and Abajian believes consumer confidence is following and that's definitely the case with Acosta.

"I read all of the time on the economy and everything seems like it is turning around and this should be a good year coming up," said Acosta. That confidence has him leaving with a new car for the new year.

One added benefit is that in Nevada is you can deduct sales tax�on your tax return. That can make a big difference especially on big ticket items.

Sierra Vista High School Girls Basketball WINS with Findlay Lincoln Tree Contest.

Sun, 12 Dec 2010 08:14:09 -0700

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Valley Automall Announces Holiday Tree Winners

Henderson, Nev. – Local high school students recently flexed their decorating skills during Valley Automall’s 13th annual Holiday Tree Decorating Contest. The event took place Dec. 1 inside each of Valley Automall’s 18 dealership showrooms. Entries will remain on display through month’s end.

“This year’s creations exemplified team spirit, holiday inspiration and creativity,” Valley Automall Manager Valorie Staley said. “Student competitors worked together to deliver some stunning tree designs that embody the season.”

Sierra Vista High School’s Girls Basketball team beat-out 17 competitors to win this year’s $3,000 first place prize. The winning team will use a portion of the money to underwrite team equipment costs, as well as sponsor a Slam Dunk Cancer Night. The winning tree design theme is entitled, “Deck the Halls with Basketballs,” and features sports inspired decor. Basketball netting and school mascot Mountain Lions are cleverly festooned around the tree. The colorful basketball-topped tree is available for viewing at Findlay Lincoln Mercury at 310 N. Gibson Road.

Las Vegas High School’s National Honor Society was this year’s runner-up with a gaming and entertainment inspired tree design. The second place evergreen is covered in playing cards and poker chips, and flanked by a miniature version of the iconic “Welcome to Las Vegas” neon sign. The school received a $2,000 prize for its creative efforts. Society members will use the money for a yearend trip as well as charitable donations. The tree is on display at Mercedes-Benz of Henderson at 925 Auto Show Drive.

Third place went to Foothill High School’s Varsity Dance Team for its military themed tree. It’s adorned with Stars and Stripes ribbons and handmade ornaments supporting the toy drive for U.S. Marine Corps Families. The team will spend its $1,000 prize to help pay for school events and team uniforms. The tree is decked-out in patriotic red, white and blue, with small American flags. The third place winner is being showcased inside Desert BMW of Henderson at 261 Auto Mall Drive.

Contestants received a decorating allowance and a 10-foot evergreen tree. Entries were judged by a five-person panel that included: KVVU-TV Fox 5’s personalities Monica Jackson, Maria Silva, and Les Krifation, and Dr. Nancy Alamo from Clark County School District as well as Frank Nolimal from Assurance Ltd.

The yearly event has distributed thousands in prizes over the years, aiding underfunded high school extracurricular programs impacted by budget deficits. Students use earnings to defray club travel expenses, field trips, purchase club equipment and fund school dances, among other things.

�“This event continues to generate great community involvement and excitement,” Staley said. “The contest plays a pivotal role in aiding and supporting local schools.”

The Valley Automall is the world's largest Automall, with thousands of new and used vehicles. For more information check out the website at: www.valleyautomall.com

5 Findlay Automotive Stores To Raise Money For Hurt Bikers

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 20:02:24 -0700

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Five Findlay Automotive Group businesses including Findlay Toyota, Findlay Toyota Flagstaff, Findlay Acura, Findlay Chevrolet, Findlay Volkswagen and Findlay Customs combined to participate in a benefit for BMX Peddle Bike pros T.J. Lavin and Ty Pinney, who were both hurt in riding accidents. The Findlay stores raised $10,000 through an auction for an ’09 Yamaha 459R in a raffle at the Hard Rock last Friday night. Shown above are, from left, Findlay Volkswagen General Manager Jim Krumme; Findlay Toyota General Sales Manager John Barr; and Findlay Acura General Manager James Cobbs. The event raised a total of $670,000.

Findlay Kia and Holly Madison Kicks Off 2nd Annual "Holly Jolly Toy Drive" with Lotus Broadcasting

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 19:57:19 -0700

Holly Madison Kicks Off 2nd Annual “Holly Jolly Toy Drive” with Lotus Broadcasting

December 1, 2010 by VegasNews.com�

PEEPSHOW headliner and Holly’s World star Holly Madison is teaming up with Lotus Broadcasting again this year to present the Second Annual Holly Jolly Christmas Toy Drive. The goal is to collect as many toys as possible in the month of December. All of the toys will go to Toys For Tots in Southern Nevada.

Holly will be on hand at different locations throughout the month of December to collect toys, meet and take pictures with fans and thank people for their donations.

Holly kicked off the toy drive live Wednesday morning on KOMP 92.3 and 97.1 The Point radio stations. Anyone wishing to donate can by bringing a new, unwrapped toy to any of the drop-off locations that will be announced periodically on the different Lotus stations and will take place throughout the month of December.

“I’m so excited to be doing the Holly Jolly Christmas Toy Drive again this year,” said Holly. “Last year was so much fun and we collected some great toys for the kids. This is the time of year to reflect on what you have and help out those less fortunate. I hope it’s a successful as it was last year. I want to thank Lotus Broadcasting for doing it with me again this year. I can’t wait to go shopping myself.”

The first location this year will be this coming Saturday, December 4 at Findlay Kia from 11 am to 1 pm. Findlay Kia is also jumping into the holiday spirit by giving away a three year lease on a brand new Kia Soul. Anyone donating a toy valued at $10 or more will be entered into a raffle. The drawing will be done at the end of the toy drive and the winner of the lease will be announced.

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Findlay Automotive of Utah opens Findlay Kia in St. George

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 16:20:06 -0600

Findlay Automotive of Utah is pleased to announce the opening of Findlay Kia, the newest automobile dealership in Southern Utah.

“We’re excited about adding another brand to our lineup of Findlay dealerships”, said Dave Gourley, general manager of Findlay Automotive of Utah. “This means the folks of Southern Utah have another choice when it comes to buying or leasing an automobile”

Findlay Kia is a newly constructed 10,000 square foot building that includes a complete service facility. There are about 63 brand new Kias on site, ready for sale and 25 pre-owned Kias.

“Our new Kia dealership will employ 20 people,” said Curtis Whitehead, Findlay Kia’s sales manager. “We are so proud of this facility and all that it has to offer our customers.”

The dealership hours are Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Forte, Soul, Sportage and the Rio are among the most popular Kias with the Rio starting at $13,995.

Findlay Kia is located next to Findlay Hyundai/Subaru at 1369 Sunland Drive, St. George, Utah 84790. For more information call 435-817-4242 or visit FindlayKiaStGeorge.com.

Findlay Kia is operated by the Findlay Automotive Group based in Henderson, Nevada. The group consists of 22 automobile dealerships in four western states. Kia is the fourth franchise for the Findlay Group in St. George and is adjacent to the current Findlay Hyundai, Subaru and Volkswagen dealerships.

Findlay Acura supports local youth athletes through sponsorship of AthletesRUs.net

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 12:51:34 -0600

When brothers Cory and Pat Gray graduated after playing football for four years at Centennial High School, they felt remarkably alone in their quest to make a career out of what they loved to do — play football.

They looked around and saw many of their cohorts in similar situations, watched as they played for nearby junior colleges and eventually turned their focus to other pursuits.

They thought: “Wouldn’t it be great if there were a way for Las Vegas valley youth and teenagers to have a support structure beyond their school that helped them train and prepare for a career as a professional athlete?”

That’s when the concept for the Findlay Acura supported website, AthletesRUs.net, was born. After a year in the making it launched in August 2009.

AthletesRUs.net is a virtual community that connects young athletes, male and female, to trainers, recruiters and ultimately opportunities in their sport of choice. Athletes sign-up just like they would on Facebook, creating a personal profile complete with sports stats, the colleges they most admire (and one day hope to attend), demo videos and pictures, to name a few profile elements.

Although the founders are based in Las Vegas, thanks to the Internet, AthletesRUs.net isn’t just for Las Vegas area youth. It can be used by young athletes anywhere in the world. In fact, one of the site members is located in France.

The site includes a majority of football, basketball and baseball players, but young athletes in any sport are encouraged to create a profile on AthletesRUs.net.

“Our greatest challenge is just getting the word out,” said AthletesRUs.net Co-Founder Cory Gray. “We’re targeting high schools, coaches and star athletes to let them know about the resources provided by AthletesRUs.net. We’re also reaching out to recruiters and college coaches to show them what we’re doing and get their participation.”

Some of the most popular activities sponsored by the site are training clinics and camps. In fact, every Saturday from 9 to 11 a.m. at Aliante Nature Discovery Park in North Las Vegas AthletesRUs.net hosts an open training session conducted by skilled athletic trainers and focused on speed, agility and strength training. All young athletes are invited to participate and learn more in person about AthletesRUs.net.

“We couldn’t do what we’re doing if it weren’t for community minded businesses like Findlay Acura,” said AthletesRUs.net Co-Founder Pat Gray. “We’re really grateful for their support. And we’re quite proud to play a small role in the success of young athletes, both in the Las Vegas area and around the world.”

AthletesRUs.net sponsorship opportunities are available. Sponsors provide the funds necessary to maintain the site and programs presented by AthletesRUs.net. They receive recognition on the site and at AthletesRUs.net sponsored events.

Sponsor dollars are also used to purchase athletic equipment and supplies as well as provide scholarships for outstanding young athletes.

“We agree with Cory and Pat Gray that today’s youth should be encouraged to be their best in athletics and academics,” said James Cobbs, Findlay Acura’s general manager. “We support AthletesRUs.net because it provides an important service to young athletes in the Las Vegas area and beyond. It helps them reach their potential and perhaps even one day achieve their dreams.”

Findlay Kia St. George breaks ground for future dealership

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 15:24:35 -0600

St. George, Utah will soon have its first Kia dealership, Findlay Kia St. George, at 1371 South Sunland Drive. The dealership facility is now under construction and will be home to a team of a dozen or so new Findlay employees when it opens later this year.

“We expect to be open for business by the end of November,” said General Manager Dave Gourley, who also serves as GM for Findlay Volkswagen, Hyundai and Subaru in St. George. “We tell everyone we’re building our new state-of-the-art Kia store on the ‘savings side’ of the freeway, just like our other dealerships.”

The Kia dealership will be just under 9,000 square feet and will include four service bays. It will be the only Kia dealership between Las Vegas and the Salt Lake City area.

Findlay Kia St. George is part of the Las Vegas-based Findlay Automotive Group which owns 23 dealerships in Nevada, Utah, Arizona and Idaho.

For more information regarding Findlay Kia, contact Dave Gourley at 435.688.7272.

Visit the Findlay Automotive Group online newsroom (news.findlayauto.com) for additional news and information.

About Findlay Automotive Group

Findlay Automotive Group was founded by the late Pete Findlay in 1961 when he arrived in the Las Vegas Valley from Panaca to open Pete’s Used Cars on Boulder Highway. Findlay’s son, Cliff Findlay, now spearheads Findlay’s 23 dealerships in Nevada, Arizona, Utah and Idaho.