BOB STONE(center) is seen here with Jason Hirata, (left) Subaru of America Portland Zone District Sales Manager and Jim Pernas, (right) Subaru of America Western Region Zone Director accepting one of three Subaru Stellar Care Awards presented to the dealership in the past three years. Contributed photo
BOB STONE(center) is seen here with Jason Hirata, (left) Subaru of America Portland Zone District Sales Manager and Jim Pernas, (right) Subaru of America Western Region Zone Director accepting one of three Subaru Stellar Care Awards presented to the dealership in the past three years. Contributed photo
Bob Stone called a meeting for all staff at Freeway Autocenter on Friday afternoon, Oct. 31, and announced that he would be retiring from the business.
He said a new owner would be taking control of the dealership in early December.
Stone explained that under the terms of the sale he could not identify the new owner until the deal was final. But he assured employees that the new owner was a well-known Oregon family that looks forward to continuing the operation of the dealership with the high standards established over the past 15 years.
Stone went on to thank his employees for their efforts and the many hours they had put in over the years, recounting many of their accomplishments.
“This staff has gone above and beyond expected industry standards to deliver personal attention and service to each customer,” said Stone. “Over the years we have received more awards and honors from Subaru of America than any other dealership in the region.”
In 2007 the dealership was honored by Subaru for being the “Best Place in America” to buy a new Subaru based on customer surveys done by the company. In 2010, Stone’s dealership was honored by Subaru for being first in market penetration in the continental U.S.
Stone was also the first dealership in Oregon to achieve Subaru Stellar Care Award status in 2012 and went on to repeat that distinction again 2013 and 2014.
“Our success has made it possible to have made a number of significant contributions to our community through support of local military families, emergency first responders, local schools and sponsorships of numerous community events including The Cherry Festival Parade, the Hood 2 River Relay, Kiteboarding 4 Cancer, the Hood River Hops and Harvest Festivals to name a few,” said Stone.
He purchased the Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Subaru dealership in The Dalles from the Thomas family in 2000. His career in the automotive dealership business began in 1955.
Stone first worked at and owned dealerships in the Midwest and California before buying the store in The Dalles.
“The business has changed immensely in the past 60 years but the need for good customer service has been, and will continue to be, the key to success.
“It’s been a wonderful experience for Catherine and me here in The Gorge. As I move on to my retirement, I will always remember the many good customers, employees and friends whom we have come to know and appreciate over the years.
“We will remain in the community and have time to spend doing things less demanding.” said Stone.
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