Honored to Receive 2024 TIME Dealer of the Year Nomination

Big Announcement: TIME Dealer of the Year Nominee

We are thrilled to announce that Benton Nissan of Oxford has been nominated for the prestigious 2024 TIME Dealer of the Year award. As one of just 49 dealer nominees across the country, Benton Nissan of Oxford will proudly represent Alabama at this national competition. This honor recognizes outstanding business practices and a genuine commitment to serving our community. Join us in celebrating this achievement that reflects our dedication to excellence and service.

What is the TIME Dealer of the Year Award?

The TIME Dealer of the Year award is a prestigious accolade presented annually by TIME Magazine in partnership with the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA). Esteemed members of the Automotive Trade Association Executives (ATAE) nominate standout dealers who exemplify excellence in their field. The winner is celebrated during the grand opening ceremony of the highly anticipated annual NADA Show, making this award a significant recognition of leadership and commitment in the automotive industry.

This prestigious award honors dealers who:

• Deliver exceptional customer service that guarantees total satisfaction.
• Actively contribute to their communities through impactful philanthropic efforts.
• Maintain the highest ethical standards in all business dealings.
• Exemplify leadership and actively enhance excellence within the automotive sector.

An esteemed panel of faculty from the Tauber Institute for Global Operations at the University of Michigan will select one remarkable finalist from each of the four NADA regions, ultimately determining the National Dealer of the Year. In celebration of their extraordinary achievements, three finalists will each receive a $5,000 contribution to charities they support, while the overall winner will enjoy a generous $10,000 donation to their chosen charity, thanks to Ally.

Our Story: The Legacy of Benton

Dale Benton embarked on his remarkable journey at Jefferson Davis Community College, now known as Coastal Alabama Community College, located in Brewton, Alabama. He then advanced his academic pursuits at Kennesaw State College, which has evolved into Kennesaw State University in Kennesaw, Georgia. Initially, he aspired to become a professional baseball player, but a career-ending injury during his athletic scholarship forced him to rethink his path. In this moment of reflection, he met Victoria, the love of his life. Determined to make their future together a reality, he embarked on a new venture as a sales consultant at a car dealership in Georgia, working diligently to save for the engagement ring that would symbolize his commitment to her.

Benton realized that the excitement of selling cars ignited his competitive spirit. He saw the retail automobile industry as his avenue for self-determination and success. Following his marriage, he embarked on a vibrant career journey, moving from Georgia to Alabama, then to Florida, and returning to Alabama, all while advancing in dealership operations and establishing himself as a leader in the field.

This journey reached a defining milestone in 2010. After 17 years of unwavering commitment to the automotive industry, Benton took a courageous leap, investing his family's life savings to co-own a Nissan dealership in Oxford, Alabama. Just a few years later, he bought out his partner, seizing full control and vision for success. Today, Benton has significantly expanded his Benton Auto Group portfolio to encompass three thriving Nissan dealerships, two located in Alabama and one in Tennessee, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to growth.

Celebrate This Milestone with Us!

We are excited to invite our cherished customers and community members to join us in celebrating this significant accomplishment. Your unwavering support has been instrumental in helping us achieve this milestone.

We sincerely value our loyal customers, devoted team, and encouraging community for their unwavering trust and support. This nomination reflects our combined dedication and hard work. Your belief in us propels us toward remarkable success.