Joey Logano, celebrated NASCAR driver and three-time Cup Series champion, has made a significant business move by acquiring an ownership stake in Huntersville Ford, located in North Carolina. This step allows Logano to leverage the longstanding industry phrase
“win on Sunday, sell on Monday”
by tying his racing career to his hometown dealership and the Ford brand, strengthening his presence beyond the racetrack.
From Racing to Retail: The Strategic Partnership With Huntersville Ford
Logano’s involvement with Huntersville Ford, a part of the Krause Auto Group, marks a shift from endorsement to active partnership. This is not a passive investment but a deliberate and well-planned venture shaped by years of cooperation with the dealership. Logano has engaged with Huntersville Ford on various initiatives such as marketing events, vehicle loans, charitable programs, and car giveaways through his foundation, building a foundation of trust and familiarity.
Rather than merely lending his name, Logano is committed to collaborating closely with general manager Stacy Cowan and the dealership staff. His role will focus on enhancing existing operations by applying his unique strengths, rather than making radical changes.
Leveraging Fame and Expertise to Boost Local Automotive Sales
Joining forces with Krause Auto Group, which ranks 67th among the nation’s top dealership groups and sold over 18,600 new vehicles in 2024, offers Logano a robust platform for growth. Speaking about the partnership, Logano said,
“There’s a lot to learn, but I also feel like I can bring a lot to the table,”
emphasizing his ability to connect broadly through his racing career.
“As a race car driver, you have an unfair advantage in business because I’m able to pretty much connect with about anyone I want to connect with. The goal here is to take what Huntersville Ford already is in the Krause Auto Group, that’s grown an incredible business, and try to add a little bit more to it.”
By blending his extensive product knowledge and Ford connections from NASCAR with his visibility, Logano aims to serve as an asset rather than an agent of disruption.
An Intentional Approach Grounded in Experience and Learning
Logano’s approach is informed and respectful of the dealership’s established success.
“I’m not going to go in there and completely change the place and tell everyone how to do everything,”
Logano explained.
“But use me as a little bit of fuel that can be on the fire that’s already there.”
General Manager Stacy Cowan has noted Logano’s eagerness to understand the dealership’s full operations, with the driver requesting hands-on experience across all departments. This immersive approach signals Logano’s commitment to growing the business thoughtfully and sustainably.
Future Growth and Community Impact Anticipated With Logano’s Involvement
Huntersville Ford currently sells between 1,500 and 1,750 new vehicles annually, but those figures are expected to rise with Logano’s involvement. The dealership is already preparing for a rebrand and new marketing initiatives centered on Logano’s profile and local ties to Ford. These efforts aim to attract new customers and extend the dealership’s reach within the community.
Joey Logano’s venture into the automotive retail space demonstrates his ability to make calculated, patient decisions off the track, mirroring his competitive mindset. This move not only deepens his relationship with Ford but also strengthens his connection to his hometown, promising a lasting impact on the business and local economy.
