GATR dealer principal Bob Neitzke receives the 2011 U.S. Dealer of the Year award. From left to right are Kelly Sheehan, chair of Volvo's Dealer Advisory Council, Bob Neitzke, Ron Huibers, president, Volvo Trucks North American Sales & Marketing and Terry Billings, Volvo Trucks vice president, sales – U.S.
Volvo Trucks recently named GATR of Sauk Rapids, Minn. the 2011 U.S. Dealer of the Year. The annual award honors the dealership's organization and employees for overall accomplishment and performance. Selection criteria for the award includes outstanding performance in new truck and parts sales, growth in market share, penetration of Volvo engines, customer satisfaction index and investment in facilities.
The dealership opened its doors in 1962 as Grile Auto & Truck Repair and later acquired a Volvo franchise in 1994. Dealer principal Bob Neitzke purchased the dealership in 2000 and renamed the company GATR, the acronym associated with the business during the Grile family's many years of ownership. The full-service location features extensive parts and service departments, new and used truck sales, rental and leasing services and a body shop and detailing facility.
"It's an honor to recognize GATR's accomplishments," said Terry Billings, Volvo Trucks vice president, sales – U.S. "Bob Neitzke and his team deliver top-notch service and are dedicated to customer satisfaction. GATR is a model for success in all aspects of the dealership."
