Bill Ussery Motors is Changing Its Name to Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables.

In preparation of the Opening of Its Second Dealership, the Oldest Mercedes-Benz Franchise in Florida is Changing the Name on Its Door

CORAL GABLES, Fla. -- As Bill Ussery Motors begins a new era of service to South Florida, the family-owned company announced today that it is changing the name of its Coral Gables dealership to Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables. "This is a highly symbolic step forward in our growth as we prepare to open our second dealership, Mercedes-Benz of Cutler Bay," says Robert (Bob) Brockway, Chairman and CEO.

Bill Ussery Motors will officially begin operating as Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables on November 1.

"The name change is an interesting story. Starting several years ago, as more and more dealers were following the 'Mercedes-Benz of...' designation, we chose to maintain our original name for strategic reasons," says Brockway. "This became more significant when all of our competitors to the north sold out to Autonation. When we received the additional franchise in Cutler Bay, Mercedes strongly recommended we adopt the identity standard. It was then decided, to alleviate confusion, that we adopt the standard for both points."

The name change of the dealership is the first of several significant changes Bill Ussery Motors will experience in the next few months. "In fact, we haven't seen so much change since my grandfather added the Mercedes-Benz line in the 1950s," continues Brockway. "At the time, Mercedes-Benz was new to the United States and like a good many business propositions, it was a calculated risk more than anything else. Fortunately, it worked out great, just as I know these current changes will for us and the clients we serve."

"All the exciting changes will be announced as they occur," says Greg Barnes, General Manager of Bill Ussery Motors. "The common denominator of all that is happening is that each has been put into place to bring a new level of convenience and service to the customer experience."

Although the dealership has been renamed, Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables will continue its long tradition of family ownership and personal service to the South Florida community.

"The only thing that is currently changing in Coral Gables is the name - all the really important things, particularly our employees who have made us what we are today, are remaining the same," concludes Brockway.

About Bill Ussery Motors:

Family-owned Bill Ussery Motors, Inc. is one of the original seven dealerships and the first in Florida awarded a Mercedes-Benz franchise in 1957. The company is admired industry-wide for its continued record sales and its reputation for superb customer service. A major supporter of South Florida's civic, charitable and educational institutions, Bill Ussery Motors contributes to numerous non-profit organizations each year. For more information, visit the showroom at 300 Almeria Avenue in Coral Gables, call 305-445-8593, or visit our website at www.billussery.com.