Walt DeBoer founded Lithia Motors in 1946 as a Chrysler Plymouth Dodge dealership in Ashland, Oregon. Following Walt’s passing in 1968, Walt’s son, Sid took over the family business. Together with business partner Dick Heimann, Sid was able to grow the business to include 5 stores and 19 franchises in Southern Oregon. In December 1996, this collection of dealerships was transformed into Lithia Mot
ors, Inc., a publicly traded company [NYSE stock symbol-LAD]. They envisioned a company that would continuously grow, provide great customer service, and opportunities for employees. Lithia is one of America’s largest automotive retailers featuring most domestic and import franchises. Our stores serve urban and rural populations throughout the Western and Midwest United States. We are focused on providing customers with an honest and simpler buying and service experience. We are giving customers straightforward information so that they can make confident decisions. In addition to the employment opportunities we provide in each of our neighborhoods, we also provide contributions to charitable organizations that serve our families, friends, and customers.
