User:Lesliekc/RK Auto Group
RK Auto Group
[edit]RK Auto Group (RK Chevrolet, RK Toyota, RK Buick, RK Subaru, RK Scion)
RK Auto Group was founded in 1964[1] when Richard Kline purchased a corner gas station in Virginia Beach, VA [2] , and transformed it into the city’s first dealership: RK Chevrolet. In 1967, RK Chevrolet moved to its present location at 2661 Virginia Beach Boulevard[3] (also the address of RK Buick and RK Subaru).
During the 1980s, the Virginia car dealer grew significantly by adding two more brands to its offerings--RK Buick and RK Subaru; and by expanding its service department and body shop. The dealership was expanded to include Virginia’s only used truck showroom (RK TruckWorld).
In 1993, Auto Age named RK Auto the 103rd largest dealership in the United States; 12th in the nation for car sales; 50th for truck sales and 9th for Geo sales. RK Auto was also named the top seller in the Virginia Beach region[4].
In 2001, RK Auto Group acquired the Toyota / Scion franchise[5]. RK Toyota / RK Scion are located at 2301 West Mercury Boulevard in Hampton, Virginia.
Continuing a family tradition, Richard Kline’s son, Robert was appointed President in 1980; and in 1986 was named dealer-operator. Richard Kline continues to serve as Chairman of the Board, RK Chevrolet, RK Toyota, RK Buick, RK Subaru and RK Scion.
Refrences
[edit]- ^ "Virginia Beach, VA. Auto Dealer Buys Hampton, VA Dealership," Knight Ridder/Tribute Business News February 8, 2001 http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-71098593.html and The Virginian-Pilot and Ledger Star January 14, 1979, p. D5
- ^ "As the Competitors Falter, One Dealer Goes Strong," The Virginian-Pilot and Ledger Star, May 17, 1981, E6
- ^ "Auto Firm to Open Thursday," The Virginian-Pilot, May 20. 1967, p. 22
- ^ "Seventh Annual Auto Age: Ranking the Nation’s Top 500 Dealerships," A Maclean Hunter Publication, Wards Auto, June 1993.
- ^ "Virginia Beach, VA. Auto Dealer Buys Hampton, VA Dealership," Knight Ridder/Tribute Business News February 8, 2001 http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-71098593.html