November 2024
Q4

WHEELERS & DEALERS

Driven | Learner | Kind | Team Player
REFERRAL BONUS: Get paid $500-$3,000 for referring employee candidates Learn More
2024
Q4

WHEELERS & DEALERS

Driven | Learner | Kind | Team Player

COMPANY UPDATE

Jeff Niesen
President | Van Horn Automotive Group
Team,
2024 wasn’t without its challenges, and while we may not have achieved every goal, we made meaningful progress in key areas:
  • Improved total retail sales volume by 995 units
  • Increased fixed operations gross profit by $6 million
  • Raised fixed absorption from 67% to 70%
  • Returned WCC to a path of consistent profitability
  • Increased showroom closing percentage by 10%
The biggest challenge in the business remains the shrinking front-end gross profit on vehicle sales. This is largely due to supply and demand dynamics, as the new car supply for our brands has nearly doubled over the past year. This increase has drastically reduced front-end gross profits on new car sales.
 
Additionally, there is still a supply crunch in the wholesale market for used vehicles. While used vehicle values are declining, there is a continued disconnect in the wholesale market. We can improve front-end gross profits for used vehicles by intensifying our efforts in acquiring vehicles from sources other than wholesale auctions, focusing on acquiring customer trade-ins, and delivering a tailored, one-on-one experience for every guest. Creating unique and positive customer experiences not only fosters positive sentiment but also reduces the need for higher advertising spend to attract customers.
 
Despite these challenges, your hard work, resilience, and dedication have not gone unnoticed. Together, we are laying a solid foundation for a brighter 2025. As we enter the new year, we are presented with exciting opportunities and a clear vision to guide us forward. Our main goal for 2025 is PROGRESS, not necessarily perfection. By focusing on continuous improvement, we will continue to move the needle forward.
Thank you for everything you’ve contributed this year. I’m optimistic about what we’ll achieve together in 2025 and look forward to seeing us grow as a company and as a team.
Wishing you and your loved ones a happy and successful 2025!
Sincerely,
 
Jeff Niesen

IN THE NEWS

$15,000 in the Fast Lane: Meet Our CarsFor15K Giveaway Winner, Elizabeth!

Elizabeth is the lucky winner of the CarsFor15K.com $15,000 Giveaway. We had the pleasure of celebrating her big win at Van Horn Budget Auto with other Van Horn employees. After purchasing her car during the contest period, Elizabeth's name was drawn from 150 participants. Congratulations Elizabeth

Honoring Dedication: Meet Van Horn's First Quarter Century Club Members

Van Horn Automotive Group held its first Quarter Century Club Dinner to honor team members who have dedicated 25 years or more to the organization. The event took place at The Berkshire in Sheboygan, filled with good food, laughter, and cherished memories.

The Quarter Century Club recognizes the incredible dedication, expertise, and friendship that these remarkable individuals have contributed over the years. Each honoree has played a vital role in shaping the company’s values and success.

The following employees were celebrated during the evening:

Tom Artabasy – Salesman, Budget Motors
Dale Klein – Master Technician, Sheboygan Hyundai
Pat Mickle – Body Shop Technician, Manitowoc CDJR
Bill Spelshaus – Master Technician, Van Horn Motors of Sheboygan
Dan Welnetz – Service Manager, Manitowoc CDJR
Chuck Spackman – Service Advisor, Manitowoc CDJR
Brian Wimmer – Master Technician, Manitowoc CDJR
Doreen Schreiber – Accounting Registration Supervisor, Corporate Support
Jennica Krebsbach – Dealership Controller, Corporate Support
Teresa Van Horn – Director of Van Horn Gives and Wellness & Chairperson of Van Horn Board of Directors
Sunday Strong – Accounting Administrator

These honorees were celebrated not only for their years of service but for the positive impact they have had on their colleagues and the company. The evening was a heartfelt reminder of the strong bonds formed over decades of teamwork and shared experiences.

October Ownership Festivities: How Van Horn Celebrated the Spirit of Employee Ownership

October was ESOP Month, and we went all out to celebrate the incredible benefits of employee ownership! Here’s a recap of all the fun and exciting activities we enjoyed together:

 

☕🍩 Coffee & Donut Kickoff – We started the month with a delicious coffee and donut celebration, bonding over sweet treats and the pride of being employee-owners.

👕✨ Company Shirt Day – Our team showed up in style, rocking their Van Horn shirts with pride. It was a great way to highlight the spirit of teamwork and ownership that makes us who we are.

🏅💪 National Sports Day – We showed our true colors by sporting our favorite team gear. Everyone brought their A-game in representing their teams with pride!

🧁🎉 Cupcake Day – We indulged in sugary goodness with a cupcake celebration, enjoying sweet moments together as a team.

🎉📋 ESOP Bingo – ESOP Day was a hit with Bingo! Fun questions about the company helped us connect, learn, and win some awesome prizes.

🍂🎃 Pumpkin Decorating Day – We wrapped up the month with a festive Pumpkin Decorating Day. Our team showcased their creativity and embraced the fall spirit with some amazing designs.

Thank you to everyone who participated and made this ESOP Month unforgettable. Here’s to the power of employee ownership and the incredible team that makes it all happen!

 
Holiday Magic at Van Horn: How We Spread Cheer This Christmas Season

This holiday season, Van Horn Automotive Group celebrated in style with some of our favorite traditions, bringing joy and community spirit to life! Here's a look back at the highlights:

🌟🎁 Christmas Tree Decorating Competition – Our annual Christmas Tree Decorating Contest was a hit! Each location showcased their creativity and ESOP spirit, making it tough to choose a winner. Huge congratulations to Van Horn Budget Auto of Plymouth for taking the top spot! Every tree was a masterpiece, and we’re already looking forward to next year’s competition.

🎉🎄 Christmas Parades – We joined in the festive fun at the Sheboygan Parade and the Plymouth Parade, thanks to the Sheboygan Jaycees and the Plymouth Area Chamber of Commerce. Walking in these incredible community events and handing out candy to excited faces was such a memorable experience. 🍬

A big thank you to everyone who participated, voted, and helped us make this holiday season so special.

 

Building the Future: Van Horn's New Honda Dealership Breaks Ground
Van Horn Automotive Group has officially started construction on a new, state-of-the-art Honda dealership at 6100 N. Green Bay Avenue in Glendale, WI. This project marks a major milestone for the community and Van Horn, as it will replace the current facility, which has served customers for decades but has outgrown its capacity.
The new dealership will reflect Honda’s updated image program and expand service capacity from 13 to 32 bays, enhancing efficiency and customer service. Additional features include indoor service reception lanes, EV charging stations, a full-service car wash, and a customer lounge designed for comfort and hospitality.
Scheduled for completion by the end of 2025, the facility will span 45,200 square feet on the main floor with an additional 8,000-square-foot second floor, offering cutting-edge amenities and over 450 parking spaces.
During construction, Van Horn Honda of Glendale will remain open with normal business hours. This new facility highlights Van Horn’s commitment to growth, innovation, and delivering an exceptional customer experience.

To learn more, click here.
45 Years of Impact: A Fond Farewell to Brian Wimmer's Legacy
 

Last month, we celebrated the incredible career of Brian Wimmer, an A-Technician at Van Horn CDJR of Manitowoc, who retired after an impressive 45 years of service.

Brian’s exceptional skills, passion, and dedication made him one of the top auto technicians in the area, and his kind and inspiring presence uplifted everyone fortunate enough to work with him.

While we’ll miss having Brian as part of our daily team, we’re excited for him as he begins his well-deserved retirement. Brian’s contributions over the years have left a lasting legacy, and we’re proud to call him a lifelong member of the Van Horn family.

Here’s to Brian’s next chapter—filled with joy, relaxation, and everything he loves. Congratulations on your retirement, Brian, and thank you for 45 amazing years! 💙

 
Leadership in Action: Van Horn Wins the ATHENA Organizational Leadership Award

 

We’re excited to share that Van Horn Auto Group was honored with the prestigious ATHENA Organizational Leadership Award at this year’s ATHENA Leadership Awards banquet! 🏆

This award reflects the incredible teamwork and commitment of everyone in our organization to empower and uplift others. It’s a proud moment for all of us to see our shared values of leadership, collaboration, and growth recognized in such a meaningful way.

Thank you to every employee for contributing to this success. Together, we’re building a legacy of positive impact and inspiring leadership! 🌟

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

2023 Volunteers
Retirements
CONGRATULATIONS! KIA's Max Umbs (Selected to KIA's Skills National Cup)
  • Who Owned It?

    If you catch one of your fellow employees going the extra mile for the dealership, your team or a customer; please nominate them to be recognized at the next Town Hall meeting. Winners will receive a trophy for their work station for the month, and they will be entered into larger prize drawings throughout the year.
    Nominate a Coworker
  • Share Your Celebrations!

    We are always looking for new exciting content for our quarterly newsletters. Did you get married, have a new grandchild, a graduation in your family, a wedding anniversary, etc? We want to share your celebrations! To have your celebration featured in the newsletter send an email to Paige in HR at:

    [email protected]

  • Revamp of our Apparel Store!

    When you visit, you'll immediately notice our expanded selection of items and the addition of four distinct logos to choose from: Van Horn, WDS, Cloudlot, and WCC. Notably, our volunteer blue Van Horn shirt is now conveniently available at your nearest parts department, and we're pleased to offer it at a new price of $5. So, if you're in the market for some fresh apparel, be sure to check it out!
    Order Apparel

UPCOMING EVENTS

Looking to participate in a Van Horn Event 
or even use your volunteer hours?
View All Events
November 2024
Q4

WHEELERS & DEALERS

Driven | Learner | Kind | Team Player

WORK ANNIVERSARIES

January
February
March
1 Year
Schawaller, Taylor
01/29/2024
Janke, Nicholas A.
1/8/2024
Kester, Kevin
1/1/2024
Vazquez, Keven O.
1/29/2024
Kieffer, James W.
1/10/2024
Wallace, Benjamin M.
1/2/2024
Jeter, Kalan
1/22/2024
Robles-Sánchez, Ricardo
1/16/2024
Saavedra Torres, Arnulfo
1/15/2024
Schmidt, Julie
1/15/2024
Stier, Gunnar
1/2/2024
Goodwin, Connor
1/24/2024
Tatrow, Ronald
1/24/2024
Hofmann, Gage M.
1/2/2024
Oppliger, Bryanna
1/16/2024
2 Years
Martinez, Ruth N.
1/30/2023
Serwe, Kolton L.
01/17/2023
Betancourt Batista, Hector
1/30/2023
Horning, Nicolas M.
1/23/2023
Yang, Yee M.
1/18/2023
3 Years
Cornelius, Veronica A.
1/3/2022
Luecke, Gavin C.
1/11/2022
Willis, Mark M.
1/17/2022
Urbina, Gavin I.
1/12/2022
Xiong, Cha Kai C.
1/10/2022
Lund, Bryce M.
1/10/2022
Linse, Anna M.
1/24/2022
Burrows, Cody J.
1/24/2022
Leonhardt, John H.
1/10/2022
4 Years
Tasche, Tina
1/4/2021
Szymanski, Gregory J.
1/25/2021
Zeleznikar, Brian
1/4/2021
Aviles, Santiago
1/4/2021
Eynon, Joshua M.
1/4/2021
5 Years
Bickelhaupt, Gary
1/31/2020
Olszewski, Cody A.
1/6/2020
Lehrer, Brett T.
1/6/2020
6 Years
Elliott, Mark E.
1/8/2019
Loose, Robert H.
1/8/2019
7 Years
Rauhut, James H.
1/26/2018
8 Years
Landgraf, Nicholas P.
1/30/2017
Downing, Joseph A.
1/25/2017
10 Years
Greene, Patrick
1/12/2015
11 Years
Allen, Brian
1/13/2014
Foti, Michael
1/2/2014
Housey-Graves, Douglas
1/20/2014
12 Years
Diaz, Antonio
1/21/2013
Pardun, Terry L.
1/17/2013
14 Years
Voelker, Kayce
1/5/2011
15 Years
Vande Slunt, Eric L.
1/18/2010
19 Years
Gutschow, Bryan S.
1/16/2006
22 Years
Watson, Mark A.
1/14/2003
27 Years
Schreiber, Doreen L.
1/13/1998
29 Years
Mickle, Patrick
1/8/1996
1 Year
Moreno, Abigail
2/20/2024
Riebe, Alexandra E.
2/19/2024
Hefter, Jacob
2/12/2024
Wight, Logan
2/6/2024
Bublitz, Alijah Q.
2/20/2024
Dawson, Andrew E.
2/7/2024
Mulhern, Connor
2/1/2024
Smith, Trevor E.
2/26/2024
Popp, Heather
2/12/2024
Severson, Casey T.
2/12/2024
Randall, Jarrod
2/1/2024
Anderson, Paul G.
2/12/2024
Ellingson, Patti
02/19/2024
2 Years
Brown, Jayden A.
02/27/2023
Miller, Rebecca K.
2/6/2023
Areas, Raul
2/27/2023
Beckmann, Kevin B.
2/13/2023
Bell, Kayla N.
2/23/2023
Henry, Daniel J.
2/13/2023
Molanders, Justin M.
2/15/2023
Dillman, Benjamin D.
2/6/2023
3 Years
Kenney, Thomas J.
2/7/2022
Wearing, Sydney A.
2/10/2022
Kolar, Phillip J.
2/1/2022
4 Years
Urbina, Gabriel De Jesus
2/2/2021
Lloyd, Benjamin R.
2/18/2021
Brandl, Alec A.
2/17/2021
Matuszak, Stephen M.
2/4/2021
Nelson, Allysa
2/9/2021
5 Years
Speed, David C.
2/17/2020
Maas, Jeffrey A.
2/17/2020
6 Years
Lorier, Vanessa A.
2/4/2019
Konitzer, Brian
2/11/2019
7 Years
Anderson, Sean E.
2/26/2018
Niesen, Jeffrey A.
2/5/2018
8 Years
Lee, Tee
2/9/2017
Pehler, Laura L.
2/22/2017
9 Years
Schlough, William
2/12/2016
10 Years
Harmer, Terry
2/5/2015
11 Years
Morrison, Nicolaus
2/7/2014
12 Years
Simmons, Justin
2/18/2013
15 Years
Tauschek, David A.
2/8/2010
21 Years
Hansen, Leon
2/13/2004
2 Years
Gempeler, Shawn L.
3/1/2023
Mauer, David E.
3/20/2023
Baker, Matthias
3/7/2023
Davis, Anna Marie
3/7/2023
Dulaney , Thomas
3/7/2023
Fritsch, David L.
3/7/2023
Graf, Sarah E.
3/7/2023
Greenidge, Luther
3/7/2023
Gutzwiller, Maximillian W.
3/7/2023
Henner, Zachary E.
3/7/2023
Hooper, Colin
3/7/2023
Kutches, Luke D.
3/7/2023
Mayhew, Robert
3/7/2023
Morales, Tracey
3/7/2023
Norton, Christopher D.
3/7/2023
Pfeffer, Leonard J.
3/7/2023
Pielmeier, Steven C.
3/7/2023
Prostek, Sean R.
3/7/2023
Roach, Rickey R.
3/7/2023
Rodriguez, Santos
3/7/2023
Streich, Curtis J.
3/7/2023
Tate, John D.
3/7/2023
Thompson, Kyle
3/7/2023
Wilde, Mark
3/7/2023
Ryan, Danny
3/10/2023
Salazar, Isabelle M.
3/20/2023
Buss, Kyle R.
3/14/2023
Enters, Dre J.
3/7/2023
Gonzalez, Saida G.
3/7/2023
3 Years
Pegeese, Jequan W.
3/1/2022
Noordyk, Joel R.
3/14/2022
Behm, Kai A.
3/10/2022
Vang, Peter F.
3/17/2022
Bechthold, Christopher E.
3/21/2022
Simmonds-Chicker, Caitlin M.
3/8/2022
4 Years
Steinert, Charles J.
3/8/2021
Ryerson, Christopher S.
3/1/2021
Brandt, Alan
3/8/2021
Scheerer, Ann-Marie
3/29/2021
Dauterman, Gregory J.
3/26/2021
Zopfi, Mitchell A.
3/1/2021
Kraemer, Jack A.
3/1/2021
Gatica-Liborio, Deyna
3/8/2021
Hansen, Dale K.
3/1/2021
5 Years
Schwab, Jacob L.
03/16/2020

12/30/2019
Tollefson, Cassidy L.
12/16/2019
Wolfe, Jacob L.
12/16/2019
Grys, Edwin R.
12/02/2019
Guenther, Lindsey
12/02/2019
Mercure, Mariah B.
12/02/2019
6 Years
Hastreiter, Jeffrey P.
3/18/2019
Leuck, Eric T.
3/25/2019
Glenetske, Joseph E.
3/11/2019
Jauregui, Clarissa
3/1/2019
7 Years
Dinkelman, Sophie A.
3/19/2018
Abel, Christopher L.
3/1/2018
Schroeder, Matthew
3/12/2018
Minshall, Robert W.
3/26/2018
Murray, Megan A.
3/7/2018
Present, Sandra J.
3/8/2018
8 Years
Meidl, Staci A
03/20/2017
11 Years
McCosky, Donald
03/24/2014
14 Years
Dallman, Steve
03/07/2011

GET TO KNOW

Chase Larson
Marketing Manager
Fun fact about yourself
I enjoy cooking and smoking a variety of food
Favorite hobby, pastime or passion
I am an avid outdoorsman. I love to hunt, fish, camp and capture my outdoor adventures through photography and film.
Favorite Food or Restaurant:
Steak and scallops at Schwarz's Supper Club
What’s on your bucket list?
To live a month in a remote place off-grid
What’s the most interesting place you’ve ever been to?
I stayed at a remote outpost for two weeks, 20 miles north of Armstrong, Canada. That was one of the most interesting places I have ever been to.
If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be?
Power to time-travel
If you could instantly become an expert in something, what would it be?
I actually wouldn't want to be an expert in just one thing. I see value in the philosophy of "master of none"... The idea of being skilled in a variety of different areas than just a single one makes you a more well-rounded person.
If you could live in any time period, past or future, which would it be?
I would like to live in the Wild West time period.

Q & A

How would you describe your team/ culture at your location?
Corina Yang
Marketing
Our marketing team has a lively and energetic culture where everyone brings their own strengths to the table. Whether it’s SEO, content, design, social media, or events, each person has their area of expertise, making it easy to work together. We’re always learning, staying on top of trends, and trying new ideas. Leaders encourage us to take ownership of our work, while providing the support we need, creating an environment built on trust and respect. In our fast-paced world, we adapt quickly to change, all while keeping a positive, inclusive vibe that celebrates both individual and team success.
Trevor Hess
Oconomowoc
Our team has a great culture—it’s energetic, supportive, and feels like a family. After 10 years here, I can say we have a lot of fun while staying focused on helping our customers. Everyone brings a lot of positivity and teamwork to the table, which makes every day enjoyable.
Spencer Smith
Stoughton
At our dealership, our team culture is built on trust, collaboration, and customer focus. We are a tight-knit group that thrives on working together to provide an exceptional experience for every customer. From the sales floor to service and management, we prioritize open communication and mutual support, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute to the dealership's success. Our culture is fast-paced, dynamic, and customer-centric. We all share a commitment to providing top-notch service and delivering value to our clients, whether they're purchasing a new vehicle or bringing their car in for service. We embrace a "one team" mentality, where everyone—regardless of their role—is dedicated to making the dealership a great place to work and a trusted resource for our customers. At the same time, we encourage continuous learning and development to stay ahead in the industry. We celebrate team achievements and always support one another to reach our goals. It’s a place where hard work is recognized, and there’s always room for growth.

PET CORNER

Tiffany
Jeri Johnson
Bear
Faith Cunningham
Archie
Maureena Sindric
Grizzly
Dylan Hauck
Tesla
Bryce Remy
Empower People. Amaze Customers.
Copyright © 2024 | Van Horn Automotive Group
chevron-upcross-circleplus-circle linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram