Ross Turner owns Turner Automotive. The Montrose Business Times asked him about the auto industry, his business and the future of auto dealers. He’s happy to say that his son, David, came home to work in the dealership this past year, so we are planning on another 50 years in Montrose.

MBT: How is the auto industry different than it might’ve been 20 or 30 years ago?

Ross Turner: One of the big changes is that two of the original three car brands we sold have gone out of business. Today we represent Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Toyota. The other big change is technology. In the 1980s and ’90s, people did more tire kicking and test driving.

Today customers do most of their shopping online. When they arrive at the dealership, they know what they want and might test drive one or two vehicles.

MBT: Where do you see the auto industry going, and how is it changing still?

TURNER: Americans like their personal transportation and the ‘freedom of the road’ so we will be selling cars and trucks into the future. Many will be electric in the near future.

MBT: In recent times, we’ve seen supply chain issues as a result of the world economy. There were times when there were fewer cars in the lots than what you’ve probably been used to in the past. What has Turner Automotive done to keep up with challenges like these within the industry?

TURNER: Supply chains have improved over the last six months but there is pent up demand for over six million units. That means vehicles will be in short supply for several more years.

MBT: Do you feel it’s important to give back to the community? And why?

TURNER: Why do we give back to our community? Because Montrose was a great place to grow up and a great place to raise our kids and we want it to remain a great place for all of us.

MBT: When individuals want to buy a vehicle, why do you think your customers choose to buy with your Turner Automotive?

TURNER: In 2024 we will celebrate 50 years of service to Montrose. You only last that long if you make people repeat customers and you do that by treating customers like friends.