WHAT: Ginn Chevrolet, 8153 Access Road;
Ginn Chrysler, 5190 U.S. Highway 278 N.E.
CONTACT Ginn Chevrolet, (770) 786-3421; Ginn Chrysler, (770) 786-2271; www.getginn.com
HOURS: Service centers, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday; sales, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday
Ginn Motor Company was founded by S.A. Ginn in 1922 as a Ford dealership. The business converted to Chevrolet in 1932 and has built its reputation as a reliable and trustworthy dealer of Chevy, Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep.
"Longevity is what distinguishes us from the rest," said dealer Billy Fortson, Ginn's son-in-law. "We have a very stable workforce because our employees are highly trained employees and have been here for a very long time."
The company also previously owned an Oldsmobile dealership, before it was discontinued by General Motors. Fortson, who took over the business in 1969, purchased the Chrysler dealership in December of 2007.
Located on the Access Road, Ginn Chevy is the only facility in Covington to offer an on-site tire and body shop and quick-lube services. Both Chevrolet and Chrysler locations offer a wide selection of pre-owned models.
With 50 employees, many of whom have been with the company for more than 25 years, the Chevy dealership boasts ASE certified technicians, including two world-class technicians. The Chrysler dealership has 23 employees, with equal qualifications.
"We don't do any gimmicks here," said General Manager Tim Cartledge. "We don't add unnecessary costs. We just take a straight-forward approach with our customers."
The company is proud of its connections to the local area; Cartledge, like many of the employees, actively participates in numerous church and community-based activities. Along with participating in autism awareness events, Cartledge coached football and basketball for the Newton County Recreation for many years.
Ginn Chevy contributes to the YMCA soccer and to county recreation league baseball teams through Chevy Youth, a program set up four years ago to allow General Motors to be more involved in the community by providing equipment and supplies for teams. Ginn Chrysler supports the Shady Dale Rodeo every year.
Ginn Chevy is offering $100 savings through May 31 on a set of four tires for any make and model, including brands such as B.F. Goodrich, Bridgestone, Pirelli and Michelin.
