Lauterbach Buick GMC increases space, visibility

Lauterbach Buick GMC opened its newly polished dealership in October on First Avenue East.

After nearly two years of planning, construction and preparation, the seven-acre lot sits on the edge of town at 1910 First Ave. E. with more inventory and a lot more space.

Owner Jason Lauterbach said the plan for the updated facility was nailed down in June of 2015, and demolition started January of 2016.

Lauterbach said the main reason for the extensive upgrade was to bring the dealership up to specs with General Motors’ requirements.

“A big difference at this location is the access,” Lauterbach said. “There are three different drives to pull in on from the road, more parking for service and sales customers and a separate car detailing area.”

The old location still houses the dealership’s body shop but is set to move to the new location as soon as possible.

“The plan is to sell the old building to someone,” Lauterbach said. “We’ve had a lot of interested parties walk through.”

The immense space is Lauterbach’s favorite thing about the new location.

“It’s something we struggled with at the other location, the delivery truck would have trouble coming in and out,” he said. “This space allows for plans to grow in the future.”

Inside the dealership, there is a welcoming lobby with a large sitting area, coffee and water, and a children’s table. Lauterbach said since the grand opening on Oct. 17, the dealership has precipitated a lot of traffic and curiosity.

“We have had a lot of curious people who wanted to see how it had changed,” he said.

A few employees who worked at the dealership in the 60s even paid a visit to the new location. Lauterbach said he hopes the dealership made things look a little better on the east side of town.

“I appreciate the community’s positive comments,” he said. “I look forward to being here for the next 35 years.”

Contact Kayla Langmaid at 641-792-3121 ext. 6533 or klangmaid@newtondailynews.com.