Employees who feel valued, empowered, supported and heard are not only more productive but also more likely to stay. And when you create a workplace people don’t want to leave, the benefits extend far beyond retention — you foster innovation, collaboration and a customer experience that sets you apart.
That’s why the Automotive News Best Dealerships To Work For program matters. It’s not just an award; it’s a tool to assess, refine and elevate your workplace culture. Participating in the program gives you direct insight into what’s working, what’s not and how you can improve. Plus, the recognition can be a game changer for recruitment, retention and overall business performance.
Why apply? Hear it from previous winners
For dealerships such as Volvo Cars Marin, the program has been a catalyst for strengthening employee engagement. General Manager Diana Kennedy shared in an email, “Participating has provided us with the tools to thoroughly assess our employee programs and progress, helping us identify what truly works in retaining happy, high-quality employees.”
At LaFontaine Automotive Group, being named a Best Dealership To Work For isn’t just a badge of honor — it’s a powerful recruitment tool.
“Prospective employees see this recognition as validation of our commitment to a supportive and rewarding workplace,” said Max Muncey, corporate communications manager, via email. “Internally, it strengthens our culture by reinforcing the values we live by every day — teamwork, respect, and an unwavering dedication to our employees and customers alike.”
It’s become an annual tradition for Friendship Automotive Enterprises.
“It’s the perfect opportunity to have a shared focus on something a little different from our day-to-day sales and service efforts,” said Alana Wilson, HR director, in an email. “Turnover levels at our locations that have won the award are noticeably lower than at those still working towards it.”
And then there’s Capitol Auto Group, which has been a Best Dealership To Work For the last 12 years. “It helps us in our marketing and especially helps us find the best candidates for hiring,” said Brian Schindler, director of business development, in an email. “We have seen better candidates applying and many more from other states.”
Winning is about more than recognition
At Automotive News, and our parent company Crain Communications, we use employee engagement surveys to guide strategic decisions, from health insurance offerings and benefits to communication strategies and learning and development opportunities. The feedback we get isn’t just a box to check — it’s actionable data that helps us create an environment where people want to stay and grow. That same philosophy is at the core of the Best Dealerships To Work For program.
The survey results you get by participating offer a mirror to your culture, showing where you shine and where you have room to improve. And beyond the insights, you become part of a community of like-minded leaders committed to making the automotive retail industry a better place to work.
Plus, we throw a great party for the Top 150 Best Dealerships To Work For! The awards celebration, which will be held this year in Nashville at the Country Music Hall of Fame, is a can’t-miss event for networking and celebrating your team’s success.
How to apply to be a Best Dealership To Work For
The deadline to apply for the 2025 Best Dealerships To Work For is April 25. If you haven’t participated before, now is the time. If you have applied before, challenge yourself to raise the bar. Your employees’ responses have influence, and the data you collect can be transformational.
A strong culture isn’t just about making people happy — it’s about driving business success. The best dealerships understand this, and that’s why they take part year after year. Don’t miss your opportunity to be recognized among the best in the business.
Apply today, and take the first step toward strengthening your workplace for the future.
