Bringing Autohaus to London

London Community News

By Sean Meyer/London Community News/Twitter: Newswriter22 People in the mood to purchase a new car will soon have something of a new experience to enjoy as they shop for a Mercedes-Benz in the Forest City. Last month, Mercedes-Benz Canada officials joined with Brian and Ryan Finch of Finch Automotive Group to celebrate the official ground breaking of their new dealership in London. Construction of the new 34,900-sq. ft. retail facility, which is taking place on a 3.13-acre site located on Southdale Road East near Wharncliffe Road, is expected to be completed by the end of the year. “It is very exciting,” said Rob Stockie, general manager of Mercedes-Benz London. “I think this points to a long, progressive future with Mercedes. We will now have the capacity to grow with Mercedes for years to come.” When complete, the new facility will feature a 13,000-sq. ft. open concept showroom and an expanded 13,980-sq. ft. service area that will include four vehicle detailing bays and 16 state-of-the-art service bays, including two oversized bays designed to accommodate the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. In addition, a six-car drive-in service area will help the dealership more effectively serve the needs of after-sales customers. The layout of the new facility follows the proprietary Mercedes-Benz Autohaus concept, which promotes the widespread use of glass to maintain transparency and create a bright, open concept feeling. “It is going to be very nice when it’s all done,” Stockie said. “The showroom will be full glass. It will hold probably 23 cars. It is going to look really good.” Finch Autogroup took over the dealership from Mercedes-Benz Canada on April 1, 2011. The move solidified a history between the Forest City and Mercedes-Benz that dates back to the early 1960s. In a press release, Ryan Finch, president of Mercedes-Benz London, agreed with Stockie that the new location will represent a significant opportunity for growth in all aspects of the business. “From new, pre-owned and corporate vehicle sales right through to after-sales, parts and accessories, and everything in between,” Finch said. “We . . .  look forward to opening our modern new facility that will help us improve the overall customer experience while showcasing some of the finest vehicles in the premium luxury segment.” Of course, few people actually enjoy the process of moving, whether is it a personal home or a professional business. However, Stockie said this move should go particularly smoothly. “It is easier than building on an existing location. A lot of the stuff will be new so I don’t imagine it will be a big deal for us,” Stockie said. “A lot of the equipment will be new in the shop, the furniture will be new. We might be moving some computers, parts, obviously some cars. Moving is never fun, but it certainly could be worse.” Find us on Facebook: London Community News