“Grand Rapids is our first dealership in West Michigan and the Grand Rapids market has been a key area of focus as we’ve looked to expand our operations and deliver our Family Deal advantage,” said Ryan LaFontaine, CEO, LaFontaine Automotive Group. “We see a tremendous opportunity for continued growth in the greater Grand Rapids area and look forward to welcoming new guests into the LaFontaine family and delivering a best-in-class experience.”
LaFontaine Automotive Group has been on an aggressive acquisition path, adding 17 retail locations in the past five years, all in Michigan. “As we continue to expand, we don’t do it for it for today, we do it for the future – to be able to better serve our customers and to provide career growth for our employees,” added Ryan LaFontaine.
Founded in 1980 by Michael Sr. and Maureen LaFontaine, the nationally-recognized LaFontaine Automotive Group now includes 52 retail franchises, 7 collision centers and 30 Michigan retail locations. The Group employs over 2,100 individuals. It’s the ongoing mission of the LaFontaine family and passionate team members to personalize the automotive experience by building lifelong relationships that connect families and strengthen communities. The Group sold 54,266 vehicles in 2021 and is ranked as the 33rd largest dealer group based in the U.S. by Automotive News.
“Grand Rapids is very community-focused city and we have already started partners across the community to partner with and create initiatives that will connect families and strengthen communities,” said Kelley LaFontaine, VP, LaFontaine Automotive Group. “As a family-owned and operated business, we know our continued success and growth is more than just selling and servicing cars, it’s about giving back in our local communities and never losing focus that our employees are our greatest asset.”
Scott Tarwacki, General Manager with LaFontaine Automotive Group will oversee the new Grand Rapids location, in addition to his responsibilities over other LaFontaine locations, including LaFontaine Volvo of Farmington Hills, LaFontaine CDJR of Fenton and Polestar Detroit.
Luke Field, Sales Manager of LaFontaine Chevrolet of Dexter has been promoted to General Sales Manager to oversee the day-to-day leadership of the new Grand Rapids dealership.
“I’ve been part of the LaFontaine family for over 10 years and I’ve poured my heart and passion into helping grow the LaFontaine family of brands, delight our guests and grow my career,” said Field. “I look forward to bringing the customer and family-focused culture that has defined LaFontaine to Grand Rapids and am extremely optimistic for the future growth of this dealership and new market.”
Following the closing, the dealership will be renamed LaFontaine Ford of Grand Rapids. Ryan LaFontaine will be the dealer operator. The dealership is 52,217 sq. ft. and is located at 3385 Alpine Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49544.
MEDIA NOTE: Financial details are not disclosed on transaction and no broker was used as part of the deal.
About LaFontaine Automotive Group
Founded in 1980 by Michael Sr. and Maureen LaFontaine, the award-winning and nationally-recognized LaFontaine Automotive Group includes 52 retail franchises, 7 collision centers and 30 Michigan retail locations. The group employs nearly 2,100 individuals. It’s the mission of the LaFontaine Family to personalize the automotive experience by building lifelong relationships that connect families and strengthen communities. The LaFontaine commitment to customers, staff, and local communities is demonstrated by active participation and contributions to numerous non-profit organizations, educational institutions and charities throughout southeast Michigan. The combination of both the mission and core values provides the basic foundation of our promise … to treat every customer like they are members of our family. From sales, to service to parts, LaFontaine Automotive Group is able to meet any customer’s specific needs. LaFontaine represents the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Fiat, Genesis, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, KIA, Mazda, RAM, Polestar, Subaru, Toyota, Volvo and Volkswagen. The LaFontaine Family Deal; it’s not just what you get, it’s how you feel. Visit www.familydeal.com for additional details.
CONTACT:
Max Muncey
Corporate Communications
LaFontaine Automotive Group
Email: mmuncey@lafontaine.com
Cell: (248) 763-6116
