August 1, 2017
The Van Horn Automotive Group has announced the acquisition and
purchase of Grovert Chevrolet, located at 7300 28th Avenue, Newhall, Iowa, from
Bill Grovert to be effective as of August 1, 2017.
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| New Van Horn Automotive dealership in Iowa |
As a well‐established automotive group, operating for over 50 years,
this will be the first dealership location outside the state of Wisconsin.
However, Iowa is not new territory for the Van Horn family. “My great grandparents
immigrated from Ireland and settled in Ainsworth, near Washington, Iowa,” said
Chuck Van Horn, Chief Executive Officer of Van Horn Automotive Group. “We
celebrated our centennial on the family farm about 10 years ago, which is still
owned by our cousin who is a 4th generation farmer.” Teresa Van Horn, Chief
Operating Officer of Van Horn Automotive Group adds, “My father grew up on the
farm in Ainsworth and my mother is from Davenport, Iowa. Our family is very
happy to be back in Iowa; especially with a leading franchise like Chevrolet.
The over 100‐year history of the Grovert dealership, and our shared passion for
customer satisfaction, played a big part in our decision to purchase.”
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| Van Horn's first dealership outside of Wisconsin |
Van Horn intends to increase vehicle inventory and further develop the
service center, as well as grow staff. Jon Bell, a member of the acquisition
team, will operate as the executive manager of Van Horn Chevrolet of Newhall.
The Van Horn organization and their employees take great pride in their
participation in civic and charitable causes and plan to be active supporters
of the corridor area. “We strive to invest in all the communities that we
serve, and make the customer experience our priority” said Dick Strong,
President of Van Horn Automotive Group. “Coming from the small town of
Plymouth, WI, and especially as an employee owned company, we understand and
embrace the role and responsibility each business has in the community.”
Grovert Chevrolet was started in Newhall, Iowa 107 years ago by Bill
Grovert’s grandfather. “This is now a time in our life that we want to spend
more time with family and related activities” said Bill who has operated the
dealership with his wife Susan. “We are thankful for the long-term employees
and our loyal customers and friends who have made this a wonderful experience
and