The Wells County Chamber of Commerce, alongside their ambassadors, celebrated a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house at Freedom Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, RAM, located at 1743 North Main Street in Bluffton. This event marks an exciting new chapter for the dealership, which has a rich history in the region and continues to thrive under the leadership of Travis Henchon.
The dealership's roots stretch back to 1975 when it was originally founded by Larry Hiday. Larry, who started as a salesperson, later purchased the dealership and ran it as a family business. The Hiday family continued to serve the community for decades with a reputation for dedication and customer service. Brent Hiday, son of Larry, reflected on their legacy, sharing that, "My father, Larry Hiday, began this business in May of 1975. It was a family-owned operation from the start, and we took great pride in providing service to the people of Bluffton and the surrounding area."
However, in recent years, the family began considering a transition. When Travis Henchon, owner of multiple dealerships, learned that the business could be for sale, he approached the Hiday family. “We weren’t actively looking to sell, but after getting to know Travis and his family, we realized that he was the right person to carry on the tradition of excellent service and strong community ties,” said Brent Hiday.
Travis Henchon, who owns a GMC dealership in Richmond, Indiana, purchased Freedom Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, RAM from the Hiday family. “It was the right fit for us,” said Henchon. “I’ve always wanted to own a Chevrolet store, and I knew Brent and Greg from previous dealership dealings. Once the Hiday family trusted me to continue their legacy, I knew it was the right opportunity for everyone.”
Henchon, who has a background in car sales and management, praised the Hiday family’s approach to the business and emphasized his commitment to keeping the same level of customer service that made the dealership successful for so many years. “We are focused on growing the business, increasing vehicle selection, and maintaining the great service that the Hiday family started,” said Henchon.
Freedom Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, RAM currently employs approximately 50 staff members. The dealership operates a Chevrolet and Chrysler store with a well-stocked parts department and a fully equipped service center. In addition to a broad selection of vehicles, the dealership offers services like tire sales, laser alignment, detailing, and much more.
Looking ahead, Henchon’s long-term goals include expanding the dealership’s reach and becoming more involved in the community. “I want to continue to build this business, contribute to the community, and maintain the hometown feel that the Hiday family established,” Henchon explained. He plans to grow the dealership’s volume and potentially add another location within the next few years.
As a family-oriented business, Henchon is also committed to taking care of his employees and their families. “It’s about creating a work environment where everyone feels like part of the family,” he said, adding that his own children are already involved in the business, and his staff is like family.
In the five years to come, Henchon envisions his dealership becoming an even bigger part of the Bluffton community. “I want to ensure that the dealership continues to thrive and that we stay connected to the community. We’ve already received such a warm welcome, and I plan to build on that.”
The event was a great success, drawing local residents who came to celebrate the future of Freedom Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, RAM and to honor the rich legacy of the Hiday family. For more details about Freedom Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, RAM, stop by the dealership at 1743 N Main Street in Bluffton or call (260) 824-0900. Featured in the ribbon-cutting photo is Travis Henchon, joined by his family, staff, Chamber Ambassadors, and Board Members.