Here’s some great news for all those searching for a new or pre-owned family vehicle! All of the Ed Napleton Auto Group’s inventory can be viewed on one website. So click on this link for Ed Napleton and browse away!
The fascinating history behind the well-known and well-respected Ed Napleton Auto Group begins like this. In 1931 on Chicago’s South Side, Edward W. Napleton, opened his first automotive business with a $700 loan. His belief in common courtesy coupled with a strong work ethic was first displayed when he opened the Napleton Buick Service Station. By his side, Edward’s son, Francis Napleton, helped to advance the growth of the blooming business in its initial years.
Napleton’s first auto dealership was a DeSoto franchise. With little warning that brand was withdrawn so Napleton quickly adjusted by aligning itself with Plymouth, another Chrysler badge. After a while, Napleton was awarded several additional franchises. With strong belief in hard work and exceptional customer service, Edward and Francis continued to be successful and passed down these important values to the next generation of Napletons. In fact, five of Francis’ eight children have worked in the auto business their entire lives.
Then came a third-generation auto dealer, Edward F. (“Ed”) Napleton, Francis’ son. At a young age, he began his career at the dealership owned by his father and grandfather by sweeping the floors. With the important ethics handed down from his father and grandfather he continued to move up the ladder, advancing to a technician, and then on to sales and finance, eventually becoming a fully-skilled general manager. Indeed, Ed became the youngest car dealer in the United States when he was awarded a Pontiac dealership in Blue Island, Illinois when he was merely 23 years of age.
Today the Napleton Family successfully runs more than 50 dealerships in four states. Eightly-one years ago, what started as a modest family-owned business has blossomed into one of the most forward-thinking auto-dealership groups in the entire country.
Now including 31 franchises – housed in 15 different locations – in three states Ed’s business has grown dramatically. Owning domestic, import and high line franchises, he employs more than 1000 people throughout Illinois, Florida and Missouri. And, to boast a little, four of Ed’s five children have joined him in pursuing the family business, with pride, and contribute to the company’s day-to-day operations.
