Local automotive exec next speaker in Keystone series
March 17, 2004
KALAMAZOO--Getting a foothold and maintaining a solid customer base is likely to help car dealerships survive, but getting ahead takes much more, according to a Kalamazoo executive who knows.
"Gaining Market Share in a Mature Industry" is the topic of an upcoming presentation by Aaron Zeigler, president of the Harold Zeigler Auto Group. Zeigler's talk is part of the Keystone Community Bank Breakfast Series, which is hosted by the Western Michigan University Haworth College of Business. He will speak at the 7:30 a.m. event Friday, March 26, in Room 2150 of WMU's Schneider Hall.
The 1995 Michigan State University graduate began his career in sales with the Zeigler Auto Group in 1991. He has served as general sales manager for Harold Zeigler Kalamazoo and Harold Zeigler Chrysler Dodge Jeep. He also worked as president of J.D. Byrider in Kalamazoo and Lansing before being named to his current post in 2003.
The Harold Zeigler Auto Group was founded in 1975 by Harold Zeigler in Lowell, Mich. Since then, the group has grown to nine locations in Michigan and Indiana and boasts 17 franchises, two finance companies, 475 employees and $220 million in sales. The Kalamazoo-based company represents franchises of BMW, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Mitsubishi, Suzuki, Chrysler, J.D. Byrider, CNAC, Dodge and Jeep.
Now in its third year, the breakfast series is sponsored by Keystone Community Bank. The events offer community members, entrepreneurs, business leaders, and other guests an opportunity to discuss important business issues. This year's Keystone meetings have drawn leaders from around West Michigan to examine the triumphs and challenges of succeeding in this area. Speakers also share their strategies for doing well despite the tough economy.
The free event is open to the public. Reservations are required and can be made by calling (269) 387-5050. Parking is available in the nearby Fetzer Center lot.
Media contact: Gail Towns, 269 387-8400, gail.towns@wmich.edu