Bartow Ford Under New Ownership
Updated Sept. 4, 2026, 5:29 p.m. ET
Bartow Ford, a longstanding automobile dealership established in 1948 by Ernest Smith, has recently been sold to the Crossroads Automotive Group, based in North Carolina. Despite the change in ownership, the new management assures that there will be no alterations to the dealership’s operations or its community engagement efforts. Former partners Rob Kendrick, Carlos Sandoval, and Ian Whiteside will continue to be involved in the dealership’s daily activities.
Key Highlights:
- Sale Announcement: The dealership was sold to Crossroads Automotive Group on September 4, 2026.
- Commitment to Community: New ownership has pledged to maintain the dealership’s longstanding community involvement and business practices.
- Continued Leadership: Existing partners Kendrick, Sandoval, and Whiteside will retain their roles.
Former partners at Bartow Ford on Sept. 4, 2026. The dealership has a rich history in the community.
For more details about the new ownership and what it means for customers and employees, you can read the full story here.
Images from Bartow Ford’s History
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Former President Ernest Smith:
Ernest Smith at the old Bartow Ford location in 2005. -
Drive for Excellence Giveaway:
Marissa Lowry receiving her new Mustang during the giveaway for high school seniors in 2020. -
Community Engagement:
Sheriff Grady Judd at the Back The Blue luncheon held at Bartow Ford in 2020, where they provided meals for law enforcement.
Conclusion
The transition to new ownership aims to preserve the essence of Bartow Ford’s service and community contribution while anticipating future growth and continued customer satisfaction.
