COMPANY UPDATE

Jeff Niesen

President | Van Horn Automotive Group

Team,

As we close out the second quarter, I want to take a moment to reflect on the progress we have made and the opportunity in front of us for the second half of 2026.

The first half of the year required a great deal of change across our organization. We launched Tekion, continued building our partnership with Zurich, changed how we source and manage used vehicle inventory, and kept pushing forward in fixed operations. None of this has been easy, but our team has continued to adapt, solve problems, and improve.

One area that deserves recognition is accounting. The transition to Tekion created a significant amount of change for our accounting team, and they have done a great job integrating the new system and building new processes around it. We are still waiting on Tekion to make some important system changes that will allow us to become even more efficient, but the progress already made is meaningful.

From a year-to-date performance standpoint, we are ahead of where we were at this point last year. Through June, variable gross profit is up approximately $637,000 compared to the first half of 2025, and total gross profit is up approximately $633,000 year over year.

Used vehicles continue to be one of the most encouraging areas of progress. Even though we retailed fewer used vehicles year to date compared to last year, we generated more used retail gross profit. Our used retail gross profit per unit is up nearly 13% compared to the first half of 2025. In June, we also made important progress selling through aging inventory, which gives us a cleaner inventory position and a stronger start to the third quarter.

Fixed operations continue to grind, and the story underneath the numbers is important. Mechanical gross profit is slightly ahead of last year, and body shop gross profit is up nearly 15%. Parts gross profit is down year over year, mostly due to lower warranty parts gross profit. While we have produced approximately 1,700 more warranty repair orders in 2026, total mechanical warranty sales dollars are essentially flat compared to last year. This means we are doing more warranty work, but the average ticket is smaller, with more software flashes and vehicle updates and fewer large repair tickets like complete engine replacements.

I also want to specifically call out the fixed operations team at Van Horn Honda. In June, they came incredibly close to reaching $500,000 in gross profit. July is their opportunity to become the first store in our group to exceed $500,000 in fixed operations gross profit without the contribution of a body shop.

As we look ahead, it is worth remembering that 2025 started strong but became very difficult in the second half of the year. This year, we are in a much better position. We are well positioned to produce strong results in the second half of 2026, but that will only happen if we stay focused.

We need to continue supporting our fellow team members, delivering a great customer experience, strengthening the processes we have built in sales and service, staying disciplined with used inventory, improving our execution within Tekion, and doing it all while having fun.

What has not changed is our mission: to Empower People and Amaze Customers. Thank you for your continued effort, adaptability, and commitment. I appreciate the work being done across our entire organization, and I am excited about the opportunity in front of us.

Jeff Niesen

Van Horn Automotive Group

President and CEO

IN THE NEWS

Racing Into Summer: TrucksFor25K Supports Local Dirt Track Racing

Van Horn Automotive Group is excited to announce a new sponsorship partnership between TrucksFor25K and the Plymouth Dirt Track, one of the area's premier destinations for dirt racing and family entertainment.

This partnership represents an exciting opportunity to increase awareness of the TrucksFor25K brand while strengthening our connection to the communities we serve. The Plymouth Dirt Track attracts hundreds of passionate race fans throughout the season, making it an ideal place to showcase our inventory, engage with customers, and introduce new audiences to the value and selection available through TrucksFor25K.

As part of the sponsorship, TrucksFor25K will receive prominent visibility throughout the facility, including signage in the track infield, multiple bleacher locations, and within the pavilion. Fans will also see the TrucksFor25K brand featured through race-day giveaways, promotional opportunities, and exciting on-site activations designed to keep our name top of mind throughout the season.

One of the highlights of the partnership is serving as the official Pace Truck Sponsor. This high-profile role places the TrucksFor25K brand directly in front of spectators before every race, creating a memorable and consistent presence throughout race nights.

In addition, the partnership includes dedicated vendor space at select races, allowing our team to interact directly with fans, answer questions, showcase vehicles, and build relationships with potential customers. These face-to-face interactions are invaluable as we continue to grow brand recognition and strengthen customer trust across the region.

At Van Horn Automotive Group, community involvement remains a key part of who we are. Partnerships like this allow us to support local entertainment, connect with our neighbors, and continue building awareness of the brands that help drive our success. We look forward to an exciting season at the Plymouth Dirt Track and the many opportunities this partnership will create for TrucksFor25K and Van Horn Automotive Group.

RSVP Today for Our 60th Anniversary Celebration

For 60 years, Van Horn Automotive has grown, evolved, and thrived because of the dedication, passion, and commitment of our employee owners. This milestone belongs to all of us, and it's time to celebrate together!

We are excited to invite you and a guest to join us for an evening of food, fun, prizes, entertainment, and memories as we celebrate Van Horn Automotive's 60th Anniversary.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP

Event Details

📍 The Osthoff Resort – Elkhart Lake, WI

📅 Saturday, October 3, 2026

🕔 Doors Open: 5:00 PM

🍽️ Dinner: 6:00 PM

🎉 Program, prizes, and live entertainment to follow

Need Overnight Accommodations?

Special room rates start at $179 per night for a standard room.

To reserve your room:

📞 Call 855-876-3399

Please mention "Van Horn Automotive" when making your reservation.

Room Reservation Deadline: September 1, 2026

Help Us Give Back

As part of our 60th Anniversary celebration, we're partnering with the Sheboygan County Food Bank to support families in our community.

🥫 Bring one unopened, non-perishable food item and receive:

One drink ticket or
One raffle ticket

It's a simple way to make a meaningful impact while celebrating this special occasion together.

RSVP Today

Please register as soon as possible so we can finalize event details and ensure an incredible evening for everyone.

We look forward to celebrating six decades of success, honoring the people who made it possible, and looking ahead to the exciting future we will continue to build together.

Thank you for being part of the Van Horn story. We can't wait to celebrate with you!

See you in October!

Investing in Leadership, Investing in Our Community

Congratulations to Waycee Thomas, Service Advisor at Van Horn Kia, and Paige Matelko, Service BDC Manager, on graduating from the Leadership Sheboygan County program!

Over the course of ten months, Waycee and Paige participated in immersive full-day sessions designed to deepen their understanding of the people, industries, and organizations that shape Sheboygan County. Through hands-on experiences, community engagement, and a collaborative group project, they explored key sectors including healthcare, education, manufacturing, government, and nonprofit organizations.

Leadership Sheboygan County equips participants with the knowledge, connections, and perspective needed to make a positive impact in their workplaces and throughout the community.

We are proud of Waycee and Paige for their commitment to personal and professional growth and look forward to seeing how they apply their new insights and leadership skills at Van Horn and beyond.

Celebrating Our Newest High Gear Apprentices

Van Horn Automotive Group is proud to welcome Chase Kramer, Samuel Sanchez, and Ryan Wolter to the High Gear Apprenticeship Program!

The High Gear Program is a hands-on, industry-driven apprenticeship designed to develop the next generation of skilled automotive professionals. Through mentorship, training, and real-world experience, participants gain valuable knowledge while building rewarding careers in the automotive industry.

Chase, Samuel, and Ryan have each demonstrated dedication, enthusiasm, and a strong commitment to learning, making them excellent additions to this growing initiative.

At Van Horn Stevens Point, Chase Kramer has begun his apprenticeship under the guidance of mentor Trevor. At Van Horn Latino, Samuel Sanchez is working alongside mentor Arnulfo as he develops his technical skills and industry knowledge. At Van Horn Honda of Glendale, Ryan Wolter has officially joined the program under the mentorship of Manny, where he will continue building his skills and gaining valuable hands-on experience.

We are excited to support Chase, Samuel, and Ryan as they take this important next step in their careers and look forward to watching them grow and succeed within the Van Horn family.

Please join us in congratulating Chase, Samuel, and Ryan on this exciting achievement!

Partner Spotlight: Big Brothers Big Sisters

At Van Horn Automotive Group, we believe strong communities are built through meaningful relationships, which is why we're proud to partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shoreline Wisconsin.

Recently, Denise Wittstock from Big Brothers Big Sisters joined our Support Services Town Hall to share the incredible impact mentoring can have on a young person's life. Through one-to-one mentorships, Big Brothers Big Sisters helps local youth build confidence, improve academic performance, and develop the skills needed to reach their full potential.

Big Brothers Big Sisters has been one of Van Horn Gives' longstanding community partners, and we've been honored to support their mission through sponsorships, volunteerism, event participation, and community engagement efforts throughout the years.

The need for mentors continues to grow, and many local children are currently waiting to be matched with a caring adult role model. Just a few hours each month can make a lasting difference in a child's future.

Interested in Becoming a Big?

If you would like to learn more about becoming a mentor, please refer to the information provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters or visit their website.

If you're interested in mentoring but live outside of Sheboygan or Manitowoc County, please contact Lauren Splivalo, and she will help connect you with a Big Brothers Big Sisters agency in your area.

Together, we can continue creating positive change in the communities we serve.

Getting to Know / Beau Rauner

Family:

I have been married to my wife Valerie for 35 years. I have three daughters. My oldest Jordan is married with 3 kids and is a teacher in Fisher, MN. My second daughter is Brenna and she just got married in May and is a Doctor at Aurora medical clinic in Menomonee Falls, WI but lives in Greenfield. My third and youngest has a son that is almost 2 now and lives with her boyfriend in Fargo, ND and works in Cosmetology.

What one word would you use to describe yourself or 1st Car:

Loyal. 1st car was a 1966 Ford Mustang.

Your dream job (other than the one you have now):

Farming

Favorite hobby, pastime or passion:

Really enjoy traveling with my wife trying new Carribean Islands. I really enjoy golfing. Passionate with spending time with the Grandkids.

Favorite Food or Restaurant:

Being I am from Western Nebraska and cattle country my favorite food would have to be Prime Rib or a good steak. Around here my favorite Restaurant would be Carnivore.

If I won the lottery, I’d:

I would travel the world in first class.

A favorite movie:

Michael Collins and Tommy Boy

Famous person living or dead, I’d like to meet:

Warren Buffet or Adam Sandler.

My dream vacation (one you haven’t taken yet):

Fiji

My favorite music group:

I have several. Def Leppard, AC/DC, Van Morrison

I wish I knew how to:

Fly a plane

Describe your perfect day:

Sitting on a Caribbean island beach drinking unlimited rum drinks.

Favorite TV show:

Clarkson’s Farm

Most people don’t know:

Had my first two kids before I turned 21

ANNOUNCEMENTS: Pets, Babies & More, We Want to Celebrate You!

"We’d love to celebrate your exciting moments! Whether it’s a pet, a baby announcement, or any personal news you’d like to share, please send your updates to Kennedy. You can also watch upcoming emails with opportunities to be featured in “Get to Know” and other fun segments.
Reach out anytime at KBitter@vhcars.com."

Baby Announcements and Pet Corner

Live Well, Work Well Newsletter.

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
UPCOMING EVENTS
Looking to represent Van Horn in the community?
Join us at upcoming community events, golf outings, parades, grand openings, and more! It's a great way to connect with coworkers, customers, and the communities we serve.
View All Events
Revamp of our Apparel Store!
When you visit, you'll immediately notice our expanded selection of Van Horn apparel and branded merchandise. From everyday essentials to new apparel options, there are plenty of ways to show your Van Horn pride both at work and in the community.
If you're looking to refresh your wardrobe or pick up some new Van Horn gear, be sure to check it out!
Order Apparel
Volunteer Reminder
Did you know you receive paid volunteer hours each year?
Van Horn employees are encouraged to give back through community service.
⭐ Full-Time Employees: 16 paid volunteer hours annually
⭐ Part-Time Employees: 8 paid volunteer hours annually
Use your volunteer hours to support causes you're passionate about, participate in Van Horn-sponsored volunteer opportunities, or make an impact in your local community.

Volunteer Now!
FMLA Absence Hotline
To better support employees utilizing approved FMLA leave, we are introducing a dedicated FMLA Absence Reporting Hotline.
If you need to miss work for a reason covered under your approved FMLA leave, please report your absence by calling the FMLA Hotline at 920-241-8476. This ensures your absence is properly documented and coded under your approved leave.
Please continue to follow your department's normal call-in procedures in addition to contacting the hotline, unless otherwise directed by your supervisor.
If you have any questions regarding your FMLA leave or absence reporting requirements, please contact Human Resources.
Explore New Opportunities with Our New Dialpad Open Position Channel
Looking for your next career move within Van Horn Automotive? Want to help a friend or family member find a great opportunity?
Join our new Dialpad Channel, where the HR team will regularly post open positions throughout the company.
This channel is a great way to:
Stay informed about internal career opportunities
Explore potential growth and development paths within Van Horn Automotive
Refer qualified friends and family members for open positions
Learn about new roles as they become available
Keep an eye on the channel and discover where your next opportunity could take you!