Joey Logano recently advanced his relationship with Ford by acquiring an ownership stake in a Ford dealership located in Huntersville, North Carolina. This dealership operates under the Krause Auto Group umbrella, and Logano will work closely with Stacy Cowan, the general manager of the store, to enhance its operations. His move into automotive retail represents a strategic diversification of his involvement with Ford beyond racing.
Building Connections and Learning the Dealership Business
Over several years, Logano fostered strong ties with the staff at his hometown dealership through various collaborations, including borrowing vehicles for marketing purposes and donating cars via his charitable efforts. After considering a move into dealership ownership, he spent the past year studying the retail side of the industry to fully prepare for this new chapter. Despite his background being primarily on the racetrack, he acknowledges the learning curve he faces in dealership management but remains optimistic about the contribution he can make.
Leveraging Racing Experience to Support Business Growth
Logano recognizes the advantage his racing career offers in business.
“As a race car driver, you have an unfair advantage in business because I’m able to pretty much connect with about anyone I want to connect with, which is a great tool to have,”
Logano explained. His goal is to build on the strong foundation that Huntersville Ford has already established within the Krause Auto Group and to help the dealership grow further through his involvement.
His familiarity with the Ford product lineup and close relationship with OEMs through NASCAR provide unique perspectives he brings to the dealership. Logano stated,
“My tool and my resource that I’m able to bring to the table comes from winning on Sundays…”
to emphasize how his racing success may translate into business value.
Active Partnership and Immersive Approach to Dealership Operations
Logano has committed to being more than a silent partner. From the outset, he sought to understand the dealership’s business by spending time in various departments, including sales and service, demonstrating genuine interest in all facets of its operation. Stacy Cowan noted his enthusiasm and dedication as promising for the venture’s success.
While Logano’s racing schedule demands priority, especially during the NASCAR season, he believes his performance on the track could positively influence the dealership’s sales. To maximize this effect, the dealership plans to undertake rebranding efforts along with marketing campaigns that capitalize on Logano’s public profile, aiming to expand its annual new vehicle sales from roughly 1,500–1,750 to a higher target.
Potential Impact of Logano’s Involvement on the Dealership’s Future
This partnership signals an exciting new direction for the Huntersville Ford dealership as it integrates Logano’s racing expertise and business acumen. His hands-on approach and the marketing leverage his name provides are expected to drive growth and strengthen the dealership’s presence in North Carolina’s competitive automotive market. With these plans underway, both the dealership and Logano anticipate benefits that extend beyond traditional retail strategies.
