When I called Doug Broaddus about an interview, I was thrilled to hear the message on the answering service.  “Carl Gregory is proud to be a member of the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce.”

The message is an excellent way of stating that this car company is a reputable business located in Fort Payne.

Doug thinks there has never been a better time to purchase a vehicle.  Many of our local banks as well as Ford Credit are making car loans.

Doug knows that he is dealing with a totally different customer than in 1994 when Carl Gregory Ford opened in Fort Payne.  They are now buying out of need and not as much as out of want.

The consumer is more educated about the car they wish to purchase because of the internet. There are not a lot of impulse buyers in the market.

The quality of the American built car has improved tremendously because of consumer demand.  The F150 truck and the mustang remain as two of the top sellers.  2009 marks the 45^th anniversary of the mustang.

Maintenance is the key to retaining customers.  All of the service technicians have a lap top computer in their tool boxes.  Completion of the diagnostic service is completed at the dealership.

During my 10:00 AM interview, horns, bells, whistles, clapping, and loud cheering could be heard.  I asked Doug what sports event the staff was watching.  He quickly explained that those sounds are heard every time a vehicle is sold.

As I was leaving, celebration refreshments were offered to me!  Doug stated that the record total of sales for one month was 221 vehicles.  One of the requirements of the 30 employees is to have fun on the job.

Thank you Carl Gregory Ford for being part of our business community. It is an honor to have you as member of the Chamber.  Call Doug at 845-1101 or check out the website at www.carlgregoryfordlm.com.