Motorists who have driven up and down Dixie Highway over the past decade might notice a distinct change in scenery as they pass by I-75 these days ? Clarkston Chrysler Jeep, in its 21st year in the community, has a new modern look.
While the most obvious changes are the massive fishbowl-like, symetrical glass facades adorning either side of the dealership, the improvements on the inside are what owner Chuck Fortinberry hopes people stop in to see.
‘Our new interior is warm and comfortable like it should be. We want people to feel comfortable in our showroom ? like they are at their neighbors,? Fortinberry said.
A fireplace surrounded by leather chairs and couches invites patrons to take their time and a load off while looking for a new automobile at Clarkston Chryseler Jeep. Whether it was adding marble countertops around the service waiting area or nearly doubling their showroom, the new look puts Clarkston Chrysler Jeep in select company.
‘We went beyond basic Five-Star requirements when we started renovations,? said Fortinberry. ‘We wanted to make our dealership more inviting. You can sit on the couches in private or get a cup of coffee and see what’s new here. That’s what this community deserves.?
As the finishing touches were being put on the inside of the dealership, Fortinberry reflected on his mindset going into the changes.
‘This facility was new 12 years ago. Rather than just freshen it up we wanted to do something dramatic so we could better serve the community,? Fortinberry said.
The expansion to the showroom area is not all glitz and glamour though, there was a parcel of functionality thrown in for good measure.
‘We offer delivery right off the showroom floor? said Fortinberry, referring to one of the new glass enclosures which opens up onto the dealership’s lot.
If a customer comes into Clarkston Chrysler Jeep and is smitten by a particular brand new 300 SRT8, Crossfire or Aspen parked in the showroom, they can sink into fine leather to close the deal then hop right into their new car, drive it out of the showroom and into their garage.
Fortinberry hopes the additions and upgrades help his dealership continue to grow with the community that he is proud to own a business and live in.
‘I see my customers every day at the grocery, at church and at community events. They know I appreciate their loyalty, and I do everything I can to provide a personal touch at Clarkston Chrysler Jeep,? Fortinberry said.
Fortinberry particularly enjoys the local support he has received each year organizing an annual golf outing and a motorcycle ride that together have raised more than a half million dollars for the Children’s Leukemia Foundation of Michigan.
‘My involvement outside the business is not motivated by personal financial gain,? Fortinberry said.
He currently sits on the board of the Clarkston Foundation and supports area charities and community groups such as SCAMP, Lighthouse, Rotary, the Chamber of Commerce, Youth Assistance and parks and recreation. Fortinberry was also a founder of Clarkston State Bank and is an active member of Clarkston United Methodist Church.
‘Clarkston has been very good to my family and my company. All business owners need to give back to the community that supports them,? Fortinberry said.
Clarkston Chrysler Jeep welcomes customers form 7:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday; and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday.
Experience the unique combination of ‘Small Town Courtesy? and ‘Big City Deals? at Clarkston Chrysler Jeep, located at 8105 Big Lake Road. For more information, call 248-620-4200.
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