Following what has been a wild ride, Mercedes-Benz of Cutler Bay celebrated its fifth anniversary in August.
“Many people didn’t know if we were going to make it,” said Pete Blackwell, general manager. “We opened for business in August 2008, just before the banks collapsed and sent our country into the worst recession since the Great Depression. But, with the support and perseverance of our employee team, and a focus on doing what’s right for our customers, we have established a solid business base in South Miami-Dade and Monroe counties.”
Mercedes-Benz of Cutler Bay, in fact, is doing quite well. The dealership has sold 1,821 new and 500 pre-owned Mercedes-Benz vehicles in the last calendar year compared to 911 new and 377 preowned Mercedes-Benz vehicles in its first full year of operation. The parts and service departments each have also approximately doubled their business during the same timeframe. Additionally, the dealer has added new vehicles to its showroom lineup including the increasingly popular Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Vans and the adorable smart car.
“I am very proud of what our team has accomplished in 5 short years,” Blackwell continued. “Most noteworthy is achieving Mercedes- Benz USA’s highest level of dealership recognition, ‘Best of Best’ and ‘The President’s Award’ for calendar year 2012,” he added.
“We have invested so much in the success of this dealership and are finally now realizing that the sky is the limit in what we will be able to accomplish,” said Greg Barnes, president. “There is tremendous opportunity and we are doing all we can to capture the area’s market-share once dominated by BMW and Lexus.”
In addition to welcoming many new drivers to the Mercedes-Benz family, Mercedes-Benz of Cutler Bay has made an impact on the area in an even more powerful way. The dealership has become a major supporter of charities in communities ranging from Pinecrest into the Florida Keys. “We are dedicated to making a positive impact on our community and that means giving back,” Blackwell said. “A recent count showed that we have given support to more than 200 organizations that have requested assistance. The charitable aspect of our dealership is a huge part of who we are.”
For those who have yet to visit, Mercedes- Benz of Cutler Bay is located on a 10.2-acre site on SW 211th Street between Florida’s Turnpike and Southland Mall (formerly Cutler Ridge Mall). It is an 180,000 squarefoot facility that features expansive space for new and pre-owned vehicle sales, a service department, a boutique and a large client center complete with refreshment area, space for clients to access the Internet while waiting for service, and a children’s activity area.
“As the state’s southern-most Mercedes- Benz dealership, we are uniquely positioned to reach markets including Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay, Homestead, Kendall and all the Florida Keys,” Barnes concluded. “It’s also a convenient option for residents of Pinecrest and the south Gables. Just look for the ‘star’ from the turnpike and don’t forget to tell us ‘happy birthday!’”
For more information, visit www.billussery.com
