In the heart of Preston, there’s a legacy of community and support that runs deep. It all started with Pansy Wilson, the matriarch of the Preston family, who believed that businesses should stick together to build stronger communities. Now, her legacy lives on through the Preston Business Alliance program, spearheaded by Lisa Schmitt, the Business Development Manager for Preston.
Pansy Wilson, along with her sons Dave Sr., Earl, and HG, instilled in the family the importance of businesses supporting one another. This belief became the cornerstone of the Preston Business Alliance, where businesses come together to uplift each other and their community.
Joining the alliance is simple. Lisa Schmitt personally meets with each business to understand their needs, whether it’s the size of their team or specific challenges they’re facing. Once on board, businesses receive a unique code that unlocks a world of benefits tailored just for them.
What sets the Preston Business Alliance apart is its commitment to customization. No two businesses are alike, so each partnership is crafted to fit their unique requirements. Businesses receive personalized assistance that aligns with their requirements, whether it’s gaining access to specialized services, exploring partnership opportunities, or enjoying discounted memberships at Preston’s gym, Beau Monde Elite Fitness.
At its core, the program is driven by a sense of community and giving back. There are no costs or agreements—just an invitation to be a part of something bigger and support the community that supports them. It’s Preston’s way of saying, “We’re here for you.”
But the benefits don’t stop with the businesses themselves. Employees also reap the rewards, with perks like mobile services that save time and money, along with special pricing on various amenities. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.
Already, businesses like Tidal Health, Caroline County Public Schools, Choptank Electric Cooperative, Summit Community Bank, and more have joined the program. With over 40 companies on board and growing every day, the Preston Business Alliance is making a real impact in the community.
One touching example of the program’s impact is a customer who had never purchased from Preston before. After a bad experience elsewhere, they were hesitant to seek service again. But thanks to the convenience of on-site servicing provided through the program, they were spared the hassle of taking a vacation day to get things sorted. It’s moments like these that highlight the true value of community support.
In essence, the Preston Business Alliance program is more than just a business initiative—it’s a testament to the power of collaboration, compassion, and community. Through Lisa Schmitt’s dedication and the enduring legacy of the Preston family, businesses in Preston aren’t just thriving—they’re building a stronger, more connected community, one partnership at a time!
For more information visit the Preston Business Alliance website or contact PBA@prestonmotor.com
Preston Automotive Group Breaks Ground on New Ford and Lincoln Dealerships in Millsboro
The Preston Automotive Group is thrilled to share the official start of construction on its new Ford and Lincoln dealerships! On March 27, 2024, the group marked a significant milestone by breaking ground at their new facility located off route 113 within the thriving Millsboro community.
This groundbreaking event holds special significance as it coincided with the 10th anniversary of the group’s acquisition of the two Boulevard locations. Back in 2014, Preston acquired the two Boulevard stores, laying the foundation for what would become a decade-long journey of growth and success. Over the years, the group has continued to build upon its legacy, earning a reputation for excellence in the automotive industry.
The new Boulevard Ford and Lincoln dealerships will share property with the current Preston Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram store, creating an automotive hub that offers customers a comprehensive range of vehicles and services.
The spacious 42,000-sq.ft. facility will include a large Ford Service Center with 30 service bays, including 8 for commercial vehicles, and 5 detail bays. The Lincoln dealership will feature updated design themes, including oversized glass windows for better visibility of the luxurious models at night and deluxe interior finishes reflecting the Lincoln brand.
This expansion represents not only a significant investment in the local community but also a commitment to providing customers with an unparalleled automotive experience. These state-of-the-art facilities will offer incredible amenities, ensuring customers receive exceptional care from sales to service.
As construction progresses, stay tuned for updates on the development of the new Ford and Lincoln dealerships in Millsboro. We can’t wait to unveil these exciting additions to the Preston Automotive Group family and to continue serving the automotive needs of our valued customers in Millsboro and beyond!
The Preston Automotive Group Leaders Dive into Accountability at Dave Anderson’s Leadership Summit
Leaders from Preston Automotive Group recently had the opportunity to attend the Learn To Lead Leadership Summit, led by world-renowned speaker and author, Dave Anderson. On March 12th and 13th, at the Tidewater Inn in Easton, MD, the team seized a valuable two-day opportunity to dive into the fundamentals of accountability and cultivating positive habits.
The team, familiar with Anderson’s leadership seminars, approached this summit with a clear goal: accountability. With each summit uniquely themed, this edition centered on the importance of staying true to one’s word and goals and the effect it has on their ability to lead their team successfully.
Over the course of the summit, leaders engaged in breakout sessions aimed at exploring strategies for personal and team accountability. Discussions were lively and productive, with leader’s from every Preston Automotive Group dealership exchanging insights and experiences on how to effectively hold themselves and their teams accountable throughout the year. For many of us, it’s the small changes that will make the biggest impact, like refining our morning routines, maintaining punctuality, and fostering consistency within our store.
At every Learn To Lead Summit, Preston partners with Dave Anderson to recognize individuals within the group with a red belt. This belt symbolizes their dedication and drive to continually improve and excel daily. Among those honored by Preston were Service Manager Tim McClincy and Parts Manager Shaun Robinson from Preston Ford. We appreciate their unwavering commitment and contributions, as their departments owe much of their success to their hard work and dedication!
Right image: Pictured from left to right: Chris Marks, Tim McClincy, Dave Anderson, Mike Cohen, Ryan McCraken, David Wilson, and Shaun Robinson.
As the summit concluded, the leaders of Preston Automotive Group left with renewed energy and clear plans to ensure accountability in all their efforts. With Anderson’s guidance and the collective dedication of the team, the future shines bright for the many stores that make up the Preston Automotive Group. They’re eager to return to work, motivate their teams, and improve their workplaces to further enhance the customer experience.
Learn More About Subprime Car Loans
Subprime Auto Loans
If you have a low credit score, we’re here to help. Preston Automotive Group has a team of financial professionals who specialize in second-chance car loans, providing you with a variety of options. Our PAG team has a deep understanding of diverse financial backgrounds and other factors that can affect your credit score. To learn more about subprime auto loans, keep reading and contact Preston Automotive Group for more details.
Everyone Deserves a Second Chance
Your credit status is not permanent, but we recognize how much of a roadblock it can be when trying to buy a vehicle. PAG is committed to helping individuals who need a second shot at obtaining a car loan. We offer no credit check car lots and have assistance available for ITIN buyers. Each buyer is unique, and we are willing to work one-on-one with you to ensure you get the lowest rate available and a financial plan that best suits your lifestyle.
We’ll Work With You
Your credit history does not have to define you, and it shouldn’t. Reach out to us at Preston Automotive Group, and we’ll assess your eligibility for a second-chance auto loan and work on getting you the best rate possible!
A New Beginning
Already a Ford Motor Company Top Volume Dealer Hall of Fame inductee, Wilson has been named the next Chairman of the National Ford Dealer Council at the company’s annual meeting on November 6 in Dearborn, MI. Wilson, who is the Founder and Chairman of Preston Automotive Group (PAG), iFrog Marketing Solutions, and also holds vested interests in numerous other businesses across the Delmarva area, was previously Vice Chairman for the Dealer Council.
“I am honored and humbled to serve Ford and the Ford Dealer Body,” said Wilson. “Together, we will continue to build on Ford’s truck leadership, Ford Blue, Ford Pro, and Model e. It’s an exciting time, and Ford’s product lineup is second to none, in my opinion.”
Wilson succeeds Tim Hovik, Owner/General Manager of Top 100 Ford dealer San Tan Ford in Gilbert, Ariz. Edward Marcel Stivers III was named the Vice Chairman alongside Wilson. “The National Dealer Council Chair position is so critical to our engagement with our dealer network,” said Andrew Frick, President, Ford Blue. “Dave, in this role, will represent the voice of nearly 3,000 Ford dealers across the country. I think Dave is perfectly positioned to have this role, as he is a very successful Ford dealer, and has eight Ford dealerships of different sizes that truly reflect the structure of the entire network.
The Future is Bright
“Dave’s approach of working together to drive our business forward is so important in this very dynamic industry, and I have total confidence in his ability to lead our dealers and work with Ford to improve our position in the market with a focus on our customers,” added Frick. The Ford National Dealer Council represents all Ford dealerships in the United States, and works closely with Ford Motor Company, Model e (electric vehicle division of Ford), Ford Credit, and Ford Pro. The elected council’s objective is to enhance customer experience at Ford dealers and seek innovative ways to evolve sales and service offerings for the brand.
Our Proud Ford Family
“Ford is committed to serving their customers, and this group will help drive that forward,” said Wilson. “Treating our customers like family will help to strengthen our sales and service offerings and increase loyalty for the Ford brand. We are #BuiltFordProud.” Preston Ford, a Top 100 Ford Dealer for the last 10 years, is one of eight total Ford rooftops under PAG, including Pittsville Ford on Route 50 just outside Salisbury, which also boasts a Quick Lane Tire & Auto Center. Wilson became a first-generation dealer at age 22 when he founded PAG and the original Preston Ford location in Preston.
“PAG is a family business that I am proud to say my family heavily participates in, and we also feel like every PAG associate is part of our family,” said Wilson. “The opportunity to serve as Chair of the Ford Dealer Council is a testament to their hard work, as well.”
Caring for Our Community
The familiar Preston emblem can be seen on cars throughout the Shore. PAG customers proudly display the monthly Preston Frog given in honor of that month’s charitable organization with the purchase of any vehicle. These organizations include causes such as Breast Cancer Awareness, American Heart Association, Save the Bay, and programs to provide lunch to local school children. The charitable work is done through the Wilson Family Community Foundation, which Wilson launched in 2019 with his wife, Peggy Wilson. The Wilson Family Foundation has made significant contributions to the communities that they proudly serve.
Race To The Top
Total Team Effort!
Another sales drive in the history books, and we once again felt the love and support from the Delmarva community!
In 2022, Preston Ford finished as the 62nd-ranked Ford dealer in the nation out of 3,300 locations, an incredible milestone for our small-town dealership! This is the 10th consecutive year Preston Ford placed among the Top 100 Ford dealers!
Here are some other amazing numbers:
- 13th in the USA in December sales. Preston Ford delivered 323 new Fords in the month of December to push toward the Top 50!
- 11th in the USA in Ford Commercial sales. That’s for all of 2022! We sold 711 new Fords to businesses looking to improve their operations!
- Preston Ford sold 2,012 new Ford models in 2022!
We could not have accomplished this feat without the hard work of every member of the Preston Automotive Group team, the drivers who made it a priority to get the vehicles to our lots, and the support of the Delmarva community and beyond lifting us up.
We Love Our Community!
Every year we look for more ways to give back, which is how Preston Cares was born. Preston Cares was again busy in 2022. Here are some highlights of the events we hosted and the partnerships we forged and strengthened with our Delmarva community!
- Following our second annual Frog’s Fairway Golf Tournament, we donated $45,996.31 to Women Supporting Women and Making Strides for breast cancer research!
- Donated $23,098 to Goose Flights supporting Make-A-Wish Foundation.
- Partnered with Nemours Children’s Health, ColeStrong, Wyatt’s Warriors, and Gold in Fight to raise a total of $44,400 to raise childhood cancer awareness.
- We partnered with professional baseball player Trey Mancini and donated a backpack for every hit Trey collected during the 2022 season. He finished the season with 125 hits, which led to 125 backpacks being donated to Blessings in a Backpack!
- Toys, hats, coats, diapers, books, and blankets, donated to HarCo Positivity Pals.
- Hosted the C3 – Chesapeake Cycling Club as they biked from Preston to Rehoboth Beach and back!
- Our Trunk or Treat event was a hit with the local community!
- Donated 200 bicycles to Bears That Care ahead of the holidays!
- $22,300 raised for Deputy First Class Glenn Hilliard’s Family.
- $12,350 raised for March of Dimes.
- $12,250 raised for American Heart Association.
- $6,530 raised for Eli Hanes.
These are just a few of the highlights! Check out how you can enrich our community by joining Preston Cares!
Looking Ahead to 2023
New vehicle inventory numbers are rising again, which means our Preston Ford dealerships are anticipating a healthy amount of Built Ford Tough® vehicles on the lot. Our guests also have the option of custom ordering a new Ford to exact specifications. Whenever you purchase a vehicle from us, you become a Preston For Life member. We take care of our customers and offer exceptional warranties, benefits, and even At Home Services, including stress-free at-home vehicle purchasing and delivery right to your door. We also have a pickup and delivery service available for future maintenance appointments!
Thank you, Delmarva, and thank you for choosing Preston Automotive Group! We look forward to serving you in 2023!
Race To The Top 50
Stronger With You
Love For Family & Our Community
Preston Automotive Group (PAG) is a family-owned and operated business, and an active member of the Delmarva community, and this year is all about family and community. We welcomed David Henry Wilson III to the world, which reminded all of us just how much our family and community means to us. Congratulations to David Jr. and Amanda, and welcome to the Preston Family, D3! The rest of the year is about working together and finishing strong in our bid to become a top Ford dealership, no small feat considering we are located just outside a town of about 700 people. All our guests are encouraged to visit Preston Ford to support us as we Race To the Top 50. Remember, “Cars and Trucks Cost Less in Preston!”
2022 Has Not Been Easy
There were a lot of potential setbacks this year. The microchip shortage is still ongoing. Inventory levels are only recently recovering. There are even threats of a recession. For a small-town, family-owned dealership, these conditions undoubtedly left us wondering what the future would hold.
Nevertheless, We Persisted
Thanks to the unwavering support of our community, PAG is not only surviving 2022, we are moving ahead with more determination and grit than ever. This year gave us the opportunity to expand our automotive expertise and our reach across Delmarva. Throughout the year, PAG added four Moke America™ dealerships across Maryland and Delaware, two additional Delaware Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram dealerships in Wilmington and Dover, and expanded Preston Ford West with a new customer base in Owings Mills, Maryland. PAG is also now a part of the powersports community, with the new Preston Powersports location now open on Route 50 in Easton, Maryland. To top it all off with more good news, Ford inventory is on the rise, which means things are continuing to look up!
Help Our Legacy Continue
Speaking of Ford, Preston Ford is once again in a race to finish among the top 50 volume Ford dealerships in the United States, a feat it has achieved for nine consecutive years! We reached 23rd in 2020 and 33rd last year, and are determined to move up and continue our top 50 streak. We ask that you keep supporting Preston Ford and our sister store, Preston Ford of Denton. If you are looking for a new vehicle, stop by one of our showrooms or shop our website. Take advantage of Preston Delivers for painless delivery right to your door! We also offer Mobile Service and at-home pickup and delivery for maintenance appointments. Remember, each purchase comes with a Preston For Life membership, which protects your vehicle for life and qualifies you for a variety of discounts and benefits.
Preston Cares Pitches In
We’re not just about moving the metal, we are also heavily invested in the communities we serve. Community is one of our core values, so we supported various charities in 2022 through Preston Cares. PAG recently hosted the Second Annual Frog’s Fairway Golf Tournament, where our community helped raise $45,996.31 for Women Supporting Women and Making Strides. In the month of August, PAG was able to donate $44,400 to four different childhood cancer charities. PAG collected school supplies, hosted hat drives, participated in Bears That Care, and supported our community in every way possible. You all do so much for us, so we owe it to you to give back!
We’ve Got Work To Do
Allow Preston Automotive Group to continue uplifting our family and community by showing your support during the Race To the Top 50 Sales Drive. The more we sell, the more we can give back! Call or contact your local Preston Automotive Group dealership to become a part of our community and help Preston Ford once again finish among the top 50 volume Ford dealerships in the United States!
Nissan Rogue VC-Turbo Engine
What Makes An Award-Winning Engine?
The team at Preston Automotive Group is excited to announce an amazing feat accomplished by the Nissan Rogue’s engine, a 1.5L VC-Turbo engine. Excelling in performance and power, this engine was named one of “Ward’s 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems” for 2022, thanks to its best-in-class engine fuel economy*, enhanced power, and torque.** In a recent press release, Nissan News spoke about this impressive engine and how it reached its spot in the top 10. Our experts read the press release for you, so here’s all the highlights. Let us know if you are interested in checking out the Nissan Rogue, engine included!
Inspiring Power
Wards’ winners are chosen based on evaluations of a variety of features, including horsepower, torque, noise, fuel economy, applications of new technology, and how their specs compare to other engines. Judge Drew Winter described the Nissan Rogue’s engine as “very smooth, exceptionally quiet during idle, pleasant to drive in traffic or on the highway,” which can only describe a remarkably innovative powertrain. The engine also optimizes power output and provides greater efficiency. To put it in as few words as we can, the Nissan Rogue’s engine offers a great value. Take a test drive of a Nissan Rogue with Preston Automotive Group to check out the engineering for yourself!
We’re Ready
Go ahead and schedule your test drive or come straight to the Preston Autoplex to check out a Nissan Rogue. If you are interested in discussing why the Nissan Rogue’s engine was placed among “Ward’s 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems,” contact our team today! SHOP NOW*AutoPacific segmentation (excluding hybrids and electric vehicles). 2022 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates from 30 City/37 Highway to 33 Combined for 2022 Nissan Rogue.
**AutoPacific segmentation. Comparison based on 2022 Nissan Rogue S vs. latest in-market competitors in Mid-Size SUV Segment (excluding hybrids and electric vehicles). Base models compared.
Best Hyundai Cars & SUVs For Teens
Top Five Hyundai Models For Teens
A round of applause for Hyundai vehicles, five of which recently earned U.S. News & World Report’s “Best New & Used Cars for Teens” awards.* With four in the “Best New Cars for Teens” category, Hyundai won the most awards of any automaker in the running. These models promise to help teens stay safe on the road with advanced safety features and the Bluelink® connected car system, along with a variety of driver assistance features. The experts at Preston Automotive Group have ranked all five of the award-winning Hyundai vehicles, according to which ones we believe are best for teens near Easton, MD.
#5 2022 Hyundai Tucson
This top-notch Hyundai SUV is known for its versatility and capabilities. U.S. News & World Report’s Best SUVs For Teens $25K to $30K,* the 2022 Hyundai Tucson is among the higher priced and larger sized models, which is why we placed it in fifth on our list. However, this SUV can be an exceptional vehicle for a teen. Standard and available features include Remote Smart Parking Assist and Hyundai SmartSense, which comes packed with driver-assistance technology.#4 2022 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
Named the Best Car for Teens $25 to $30K,* the 2022 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is a great choice if you plan for your teen to drive a sedan. The 2022 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid will help your teen save on gas while providing you peace of mind with Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Following Assist, and a variety of other Hyundai SmartSense technologies.
#3 2022 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid
Another incredible choice for your teen is the 2022 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid, which is the Best Car for Teens $20 to $25K.* Not only is it wallet-friendly, the 2022 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid has tons of room, a number of safety and driver assistance features, and a whole world of technology to help you stay connected to your teen while they are on the road.#2 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe
The only used vehicle on the list is the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe. Used vehicles are always a great option for teens, and the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe makes driving look easy. Help your teen get over any driving anxiety with an easy-to-use infotainment system and a variety of standard safety features.
#1 2022 Hyundai Kona
Our top choice is the 2022 Hyundai Kona, which is the Best SUV for Teens $20K to $25K.* The 2022 Hyundai Kona looks good, feels good, and provides tons of confidence to the one behind the wheel. Give your teen all the tools they need in this compact SUV, from Hyundai SmartSense to the intuitive Bluelink® Connected Car System. Reach out to our team to schedule a test drive so you and your teen can check out our favorite car for teens!Let Them Loose
You can feel good about sending your teen off to school and beyond in any of Hyundai’s Best Cars & SUVs for teens. Reach out to Preston Automotive Group to learn more about your favorite model! CONTACT US*For more information, visit cars.usnews.com.
Mazda’s Electrified Powertrain Technology
A New Approach To Electrification: Mazda’s Electrified Powertrain Technology
Mazda has promised a 100% electrified lineup by 2030, 25% of which will be pure-electric vehicles. This is an ambitious goal, but Mazda is going full speed ahead towards a driver-focused approach to vehicle electrification. Mazda is working on perfecting the Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), offering three standout qualities that make their technology unique. Find out more about Mazda’s approach to electrified powertrain technology with the team at Preston Automotive Group.
What Sets Mazda BEVs Apart?
When you take a deep dive under the hood of any Mazda BEV, there are three key features that make up Mazda’s innovative approach to electrification:
- Linear power delivery – By providing the perfect balance between response and controllability, Mazda’s BEV technology has a natural and intuitive feel, which is soothing to any first-time EV driver.
- Superb driving dynamics – Each Mazda BEV is crafted with handling in mind. Mazda’s engineers expertly combine a 40%-front/60%-rear tire load distribution with a 2.1-inch lower center of gravity to provide expert handling.
- Electric G-Vectoring Control Plus – The e-GVC Plus technology responds to your steering instantly and consistently, giving you confidence in the precision of the system.
Expect More
Mazda has already promised at least five hybrid electric vehicles, five plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and three electric vehicles to launch between 2022 and 2025. Reach out to Preston Automotive Group to get in touch with our team and stay on top of all the latest news about Mazda’s electrified powertrain technology and the future of Mazda vehicles. CONTACT US
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Recent Blog Entries
- Empowering Businesses: Inside the Preston Business Alliance Program
- Preston Automotive Group Breaks Ground on New Ford and Lincoln Dealerships in Millsboro
- The Preston Automotive Group Leaders Dive into Accountability at Dave Anderson’s Leadership Summit
- Learn More About Subprime Car Loans
- Wilson named next Chairman of the National Ford Dealer Council