Nominated For the 2024 TIME Dealer of the Year Award

Exciting News: Nominated for TIME Dealer of the Year Award

We are excited to share that Benton Nissan of Bessemer has been nominated for the esteemed 2024 TIME Dealer of the Year award. Benton Nissan of Bessemer is honored to be among just 49 outstanding dealer nominees across the country. This accolade highlights Benton Nissan of Bessemer’s commitment to exceptional business practices and our deep-rooted dedication to serving our community. Let’s come together to honor this fantastic achievement that highlights our relentless pursuit of excellence and exceptional service.

Understanding the TIME Dealer of the Year Award Criteria

The TIME Dealer of the Year award stands as a prestigious honor awarded each year by TIME Magazine in collaboration with the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA). Esteemed members of the Automotive Trade Association Executives (ATAE) actively nominate outstanding dealers who genuinely reflect the highest standards of excellence in the automotive industry. The recipient of this prestigious honor will be celebrated at the grand opening ceremony of the eagerly awaited annual NADA Show, a significant symbol of excellence and commitment within the automotive industry. This award highlights individual achievement and elevates the entire industry through commitment to excellence.

This esteemed award recognizes dealers who:

• Provide outstanding customer service that ensures complete satisfaction.
• Play a vital role in their communities through meaningful philanthropic initiatives.
• Uphold the highest ethical standards in every aspect of their business.
• Demonstrate exceptional leadership and continuously promote excellence in the automotive industry.

An accomplished panel of faculty from the Tauber Institute for Global Operations at the University of Michigan will identify one exceptional finalist from the four NADA regions, ultimately choosing the prestigious National Dealer of the Year. To honor their remarkable contributions, three finalists will each be awarded a $5,000 donation to charities that matter to them. Meanwhile, the overall winner will receive an impressive $10,000 gift to their selected charity, courtesy of Ally.

Our Journey: The History of Benton Nissan

Dale Benton began his inspiring journey at Jefferson Davis Community College, currently known as Coastal Alabama Community College, in Brewton, Alabama. He then took his academic ambitions further at Kennesaw State College, which has transformed into Kennesaw State University in Kennesaw, Georgia. Although he initially dreamed of becoming a professional baseball player, a career-ending injury linked to his athletic scholarship prompted him to reevaluate and redefine his future path. In this pivotal moment, he met Victoria, the undeniable love of his life. With unwavering determination to build a future together, he embraced a new role as a sales consultant at a reputable car dealership in Georgia. By dedicating himself fully to his work, he aimed to amass the funds needed for an engagement ring, an emblem of his deep commitment to her.

Benton discovered that the thrill of selling cars fueled his competitive drive. He viewed the retail automobile industry as a path to assert his independence and achieve success. After getting married, he launched an exhilarating career, transitioning from Georgia to Alabama, then to Florida, before making his way back to Alabama. Throughout this journey, he progressed in dealership operations and established himself as a prominent leader in the industry.

In 2010, a deciding moment that transformed Benton’s career. After 17 years of dedicated service in the automotive sector, he boldly invested his family’s life savings to become a co-owner of a Nissan dealership in Oxford, Alabama. Shortly after that, he took decisive action by buying out his partner, fully embracing his vision for success. Today, Benton has masterfully expanded his Benton Auto Group, which now has three successful Nissan dealerships, two in Alabama and one in Tennessee, showcasing his entrepreneurial drive and relentless commitment to growth.

Join Us in Honoring This Achievement

Our valued customers and community members steadfast support has played a crucial role in our success, and we want you to be part of this memorable occasion.

We deeply appreciate our loyal customers, dedicated team, and supportive community for their trust and encouragement. This nomination stands as a testament to our collective commitment and effort. Your faith in us drives us forward to achieve extraordinary success.