Garber Automotive Group is led by owner and President, Richard J. Garber; Vice President and Secretary/Treasurer Patrick Hengesbach. The Management Group also employs a Controller and supporting staff.
The Organization today consists of eight dealerships representing 11 manufacturers and 17 franchises. Four dealerships are located in the Midwest.
They are:
Four dealerships are located in Florida.
The GARBER AUTO MALL is located in Green Cove Springs, Florida, 10 miles south of Jacksonville and includes the following franchises:
One dealership is located in Miami, Florida.
Together the dealerships gross in excess of $400 million in sales annually and employ nearly 700 people. The organization has also expanded its business with the formation of RightWay Automotive Credit; a sub-prime used vehicle retail operation and its own affiliated finance company, Gateway Financial.
Continued growth is planned or the organization, which makes recruiting, selecting and training high potential candidates our highest priority. Entry-level opportunities are available in Michigan, Illinois and Florida. For the right candidate, a management training program is available.
VISION STATEMENT
"To be the BEST automotive sales and repair operation in every market we serve."
MISSION STATEMENT
"We're only doing our jobs when we create an experience for the customers for which they choose to return and do business with us again."
COMPANY VALUES
Honesty: Truthful at all times
Respect: To show consideration and honor for each other.
Empathy: To be able to understand another's position.
Integrity: To be of good sound moral principle, trustworthy, sincere.
Pride: Sense of self-worth. Making a difference in people's lives.
Work Ethic: Working as a team to meet or exceed expectations.
HISTORY OF THE COMPANY
The year was 1907 and many thought that the horse and buggy would continue to be the way to travel. One notable exception was a young farm implement salesman of exceptional ability and bold vision. His name was Guy S. Garber, and he saw the automobile as the vehicle to the future.
Growing up in the Lansing area, his reputation as a salesman brought him to the attention of William C. Durant, founder of General Motors. At his urging, Guy Garber became a factory representative for Buick Motor Division. During his first six months he established one dealership, in Battle Creek Michigan. His responsibility was the management of the day to day operations.
His success there brought him to take on a greater challenge, coming to Saginaw in 1910 representing Buick. This was to become the key to his success with Buick and General Motors.... lasting a lifetime. Guy Garber shared the vision of the GM founder. America was headed for a golden automotive era.
Guy Garber's long and productive affiliation with GM lasted nearly 60 years, through the great depression and two world wars. During that time Garber married Hazel Denyes and began a family which would eventually number four sons and two daughters; Jack, Maxine, Richard, Guy Jr. (Ike), Jane and Robert.
As the oldest family-owned Buick dealership in the United States, the Garbers have always conducted a unique relationship with GM's Buick Motor Division. In its early years Garber Buick Company became a GM model for salesmanship, efficiency and service to the customer.
Years ago it was written that Guy S. Garber has but one hobby and that is service. "He lives service, breathes service and practices service. His predominant business policy is to render such uniformly satisfying service that there shall not be a single dissatisfied Buick owner in the 30 counties comprising his territory." Said Guy S. Garber, "Service does not mean something for nothing, but it does mean prompt, efficient and courteous attention at a fair price." This founding business philosophy thrives today in the mission statement for Garber Buick.
When automotive pioneer Guy S. Garber died on December 5, 1965 at the age of 81, Michigan's first Buick distributorship became the nation's last Buick distributorship. An important piece of automotive history had passed away.
Richard Garber, Sr., son of Guy Garber, who had been actively managing Garber Buick Company, became president and owner until his death in 1972. Like his father, Richard was a civic leader in every sense of the word.
Richard Garber was succeeded by Norman F. Geyer as president. Norm Geyer was married to Maxine Garber and was a son-in-law to Guy Garber. He was a dedicated, honest, and respected individual with high values. With over 25 years of experience with the organization, the majority as service director, Norm was knowledgeable in all aspects of the dealership operation. As president, he successfully guided the Buick store for eight years, during the trying times of the 1970's, until he passed the torch to Richard J. Garber Jr., in 1980.
Richard J. Garber, Jr., was the third generation to take the helm of the company in its 73rd of operation. When he became president, he was the youngest Buick dealer for a dealership of its size in the nation. Since that time the organization has grown to nine dealerships located in three states, Michigan, Florida and Illinois.
The organization today is a long way from the 1907 version, but important traditions live on: dedication to service, a loyal staff and a forward-looking vision. One that echoes in the spirit of a young farm implement salesman who took thousands of mid-Michigan area residents out of the buggy and put them behind the wheel. Our team at Garber Buick would like to thank you for visiting our website! We have a strong and committed sales staff with many years of experience satisfying our customers' needs. Located in Saginaw, Michigan, the staff at Garber Buick will help you find the Buick vehicle you want. At Garber Buick we offer a searchable online inventory of new Buick cars in Saginaw, along with well-maintained used cars by today's top manufacturers. Come on in and take a test drive! Our sales staff will help you find that new Buick or quality used car that you have been searching for. For years, the financial staff at Garber Buick has offered expert advice for those seeking an affordable Buick car loan or lease. Our service doesn't just stop there. Saginaw customers can come in and take advantage of our knowledgeable Buick car repair technicians and a fully-stocked inventory of Buick auto parts. Whether you are looking for a Buick, or a pre-owned car or truck, Garber Buick is here to help. If you don't see what you are looking for, click on CarFinder and simply fill out the form. We will let you know when vehicles arrive that match your search! If you would rather discuss your options with our friendly sales staff, click on Directions for interactive driving directions. We are conveniently located at 5925 State St., Saginaw, MI 48603. You can also reach Garber Buick any time by filling out our contact form or calling us at 888-830-1419. The entire staff at Garber Buick looks forward to serving you! About Garber Buick - Your Saginaw Buick Dealer - Serving Flint, MI
"See the Miracle Workers at Garber Buick"
Truly AMAZING! I want to take this opportunity to thank John Weiss, Rodger Piering, Andrea Maguire, Juan Bush & all the sales staff associates at Garber Buick. After two bad divorces and a bankruptcy 9 years ago, I was being turned down everywhere. I didn't want to get a "buy here-get screwed here" piece of junk in worse shape than the vehicle I already had. So, John Weiss, bless his heart, worked timelessly for almost 3 weeks to find me a decent, affordable vehicle. After a few failed attempts, John found me just the right one; a beautiful 2008 Pontiac G6 GT Sedan. After finding the right vehicle, next came trying to get an affordable payment. Well, after much more effort on John's part, he got me financed through Chase bank with a payment I could afford. After over 30 finance turn downs, John & the staff at Garber Buick got me an awesome vehicle (that I love), a reputable financer, and a payment I can handle. If you need a vehicle, regardless of credit issues, do yourself a favor- See John & the rest of the "Miracle Workers" at Garber Buick!
Michael Carriveau,
"Best in salesmanship, Best in service."
I have bought several GM cars and trucks. I bought my first new Buick (Enclave) last year. I must tell you that of all the dealerships that I have dealt with, Garber Buick of Saginaw, is the best. Best in salesmanship, Best in service. Those guys and gals do an excellent job.
Joseph Zigray,
"The Garber team made us feel welcome and treated us with respect. "
"In our effort to find a certified GM vehicle we researched dealerships in the Saginaw area. Using the internet as our primary tool we narrowed our selection down to three dealers. After talking with sales representatives of each organization, the decision was made to deal with Garber. This was based on the fact that we found the staff of Garber to be courteous, friendly and knowledgeable. The Garber team made us feel welcome and treated us with respect. The manager was active and visible to customers giving the dealership a feeling of real team work an professionalism. Given our experience, the next time we are in the market for transportation, Garber Buick will be our first stop."
Joe and Lee Rose, Mount Pleasant
" You did a very professional job! "
Mark,
Thanks again for all your help and hard work on the sale of my new car. You did a very professional job, Sharon and I thank you.Thomas ,Fenton
" He is my salesman of the year! "
Rodger,
I have found in Rodger Piering the best car salesman I have ever dealt with. He is caring, honest and has a wonderful way with people. I have bought five cars maybe more from him, and I would not go to anyone else. Also my insurance company said he was the best and most kind salesman they had done business with, when he called them to get insurance on the last car I bought. He took care of everything for me. That is why he is my salesman of the year!Jessie, Houghton Lake
"I am an old retired sales manager so feel qualified to recognize an excellent sales person of which you certainly are one!"
Charles,
Thank you for your professionalism, your courtesy and your assistance in bringing our recent purchase of a new Buick to a satisfactory close. We enjoyed our time spent with you and felt we were completely and correctly informed on all aspects of our negotiations. Thank you for your patients. I am an old retired sales manager so feel qualified to recognize an excellent sales person of which you certainly are one! And, that was a neat surprise having a gift in the back seat of our bright and shiny new vehicle! We would, we will, recommend you to our friends who may be looking for a new vehicle.Gene and Alice ,Bay City
"Our community associates Buick with Garber and Garber with Buick."
Although I am a transplant here to the Saginaw Area, it didn't take me long to understand the impact that the Garber family has on this community. It is obvious that the Garber family has a passion for success not only in business but also with the development of the Great Lakes Bay Region.
Our community associates Buick with Garber and Garber with Buick. They belong together.Sharon Hopper,
"Saginaw needs Garber Buick"
Your family's auto dealership has been a solid anchor in this community's commercial scene for 100 years. The Garber connection is legendary and has helped this region in countless ways through that long, honorable period of service. Local businesses such as yours are more than a provider of products we need to function. The Garber family has been a benefactor to the Saginaw community in countless ways. You have made Saginaw a better place to live, thanks in no small part to your GM connection. Michigan -- and America -- cannot recover from our current economic crisis without contributions such as yours. Saginaw needs Garber Buick ... it is part of our community's lifeblood.Chris Thompson,
"A true friend and not just a salesman"
I have been a customer of Garber Buick dealer in Saginaw, Michigan for many years. I have been buying my Buicks from them for many years and have developed a good rapport with my personal salesman and their service department. They have provided wonderful service to me in all ways. I feel that they are family to me as I can just drop in and chat at any time and see how things are going.
We have had occasion on trips to stop at other Buick dealers and haven?t found another that can measure up to them.
My salesman at Garber is Mike Lazorchak. He has become a true friend and not just a salesman. He has always helped us to select the best product for our needs. He is also a sounding board for any automotive issues that we have had.William L. Ruger,
"Long family history of major contributions to the community"
Informed, competent, customer oriented sales staff
Dependable, efficient service department
Long family history of standing behind the product they sell
Long family history of major contributions to the community
Garber Buick is a sales leader because they supply Buicks to a community that very much likes to buy Buicks from them. There is a proven customer need; that need will result in a significant number of GM cars being sold and an ongoing need for service for those vehicles.Leslie Hersh,
"MY FATHER DID BUSINESS WITH MR. GUY GARBER IN THE EARLY DAYS"
I HAVE DEALT WITH THE GARBER FAMILY FOR YEARS,MY FATHER DID BUSINESS WITH MR. GUY GARBER IN THE EARLY DAYS. MY FIRST NEW BUICK WAS A 1967 LASABRE AND FELT VERY COMFORTABLE WORKING WITH THE ENTIRE STAFF. WHEN I MOVED TO FLORIDA IN THE EARLY 90S AND NEEDED WORK DICK GARBER GAVE ME A SALES POSITION AT THE DEALERSHIPS IN GEEN COVE SPRINGS FL.DICK SAVAGE,
"Garber treated me honorably, with respect and an appreciation "
I am a local small business owner who has tried hard to do the right things in running our own business. I always felt Garber's treated me in that same fashion---honorably, with respect and an appreciation for how important any customer is to any business. Additionally, if there is a more community minded dealership/owner than Garber's or Dick Garber, I have yet to see the company or meet the person.
Tom Sieggreen,
"We gladly travel to Saginaw in order to do business with the staff at Garber"
My family and I have been customers at Garber Buick for many years and have purchased several vehicles from this dealership. Although we live in the Metro Detroit area where there are plenty of places to purchase a car and have it serviced, we gladly travel to Saginaw in order to do business with the staff at Garber.
All of the interactions we?ve had over the years have been pleasurable and the staff at Garber Buick has always gone out of their way to accommodate us. The sales staff has continually been able to find vehicles for us to purchase that precisely meet our needs, and the sales process has been incredibly smooth. When we have needed service for warranty issues or general maintenance, the service department has been very professional and friendly. And all of the work that we have had completed has been top notch.Adam Herbolsheimer,
"The service I received from Garber Buick could not be equaled anywhere."
I have been a Buick owner for the last fifteen years and have purchased all of them from Garber Buick. The service I received from Garber Buick could not be equaled anywhere. The Garber family have been great supporters of Saginaw for over 100 years and have added to the community in many, many ways. They have exceeded expectations both from a business sense and a community player.
Polly Lynch,
"Unwavering commitment to customers,"
As Chairman and CEO of one of the State's largest CPA firms, I have seen many examples of how various companies conduct business. I have never seen a better example than Garber Management Group and its flagship dealership, Garber Buick. Their unwavering commitment to customers, employees and community is unparalleled.Steve Kelly,
"Integrity, leadership, trust worthiness and community support."
Let me begin by first letting you know that when someone mentions the name Dick Garber in the Saginaw community immediately thoughts of integrity, leadership, trust worthiness and community support come to mind. Mr. Garber is an example of true community leadership; from his commitment to the not only the Dow Event Center with the Saginaw Spirit, the Saginaw Spirit Foundation, the Saginaw Children's Museum, but most importantly for continuing the family business of offering a first class dealership that exemplifies quality and service second to none. My father in-law introduced me to doing business with Garbers and we both have had the pleasure of being not only a satisfied Garber customer in the purchasing of our Buick automobiles but my family has been a proud season ticket holder of the Saginaw Spirit since Mr. Garber brought the OHL to Saginaw. Mr. Garber has been demonstrated how to be a successful business man along with positively impacting our community, he has made Saginaw a better place.
Steve Sielinski,
"To be the BEST automobile sales and repair operation in every market we serve."
As you already know the history of the Garber family and Garber Buick is second to none. Nowhere in The United States will you find a story like this. With a Vision Statement of; "To be the BEST automobile sales and repair operation in every market we serve." It is not by luck they have become so successful in every market they serve.
Gregg Maekel,
"Richard went out of his way to ensure I received the best deal"
Recently I purchased a new Lacrosse. Richard went out of his way to ensure I received the best deal. He has been my salesman for my last four cars and I couldn't ask for anyone better. He is the main reason I keep coming to Garber.
Stephanie,Garber Buick
"John is setting the new standard for today's sales staff!"
Last year I purchased a pre-owned 2008 Chevrolet Uplander from Garber Buick. I had never purchased a vehicle before from Garber Automotive Group. After receiving the best customer service from my salesman, John Ledesma, and his manager, I will never look elsewhere for a new or used vehicle. From the time my wife and I pulled int the dealership, until we pulled out with our new vehicle, we both remarked that we have never enjoyed the experience of buying a vehicle until we came to Garber Buick and dealt with John. His professionalism and positive attitude is refreshing and needed after my wife and I looked at other dealerships that still employ overly-aggressive, obnoxious salesmen.
John's personal attention to detail, good character, and overall effort should be emulated by everyone in the Garber Automotive Group. My wife and I feel that John is setting the new standard for today's sales staff. In these days of increased competition for too few of dollars, employees like John Ledesma will set your company ahead of the rest.Paul Kaczor ,Garber Buick
5925 State St.
Saginaw, MI 48603