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TCI NEWS

(2/5/24)

HOPKINS FAMILY MAKES HISTORY AS TRUCK CENTERS, INC. EARNS SECOND ATD “DEALER OF THE YEAR” AWARD

TROY, Ill. - Truck Centers, Inc.’s (TCI) President/CEO, Katie Hopkins, received the industry’s highest honor, the prestigious 2024 American Truck Dealers (ATD) Dealer of the Year Award, Friday night at the ATD Show in Las Vegas, Nev.

The Dealer of the Year Award is a national distinction that recognizes commercial truck dealers for business performance, industry leadership, and charitable and civic involvement in their local communities. An esteemed panel of independent experts from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business used a decision matrix to evaluate various aspects of dealer operations, business, and the seven nominee’s individual contributions.

“Over the past 11 years since her approval as dealer principal successor, she has spearheaded acquisitions in multiple markets and championed growth and core values for the dealerships,” praised the panel of judges. “Hopkins has seen growth with TCI in key performance indicators, including substantial increases in the past five years. Under her leadership, the firm operates as a solutions value-added company.”

Hopkins has spent her entire career in the dealer industry and aligned with Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) and their Freightliner and Western Star brands at TCI. She and her brother, Justin Hopkins (VP of Sales), have both been approved as DTNA dealer principal successors and are the third generation of their family to lead the company. Katie was promoted to CEO and successor of her father, M. John Hopkins, IV, who led the business for 48 years. The elder Hopkins retains his role as Chairman alongside his longstanding TCI partner and minority owner, Michael F. Yates, as Vice Chairman. In winning this year’s award, the Hopkins family etched their names into the ATD history book. Katie and her father, John, are now the first parent-child duo bestowed ATD Dealer of the Year honors.

“This ATD Dealer of the Year Award is a great honor for Truck Centers, Inc. and a testament to our team,” said Hopkins following her award acceptance. “Our people have always been our best resource, but we have had to work through tremendous growth and change in our 54-year history. I am committed to implementing sustainable and meaningful initiatives to be more agile and improve experiences for our 750 team members and customers. We are so fortunate to have a talented and passionate group of men and women driving this change by providing our valued customers with exceptional service and being empowered to be the frontline heroes of our story.”

Founded in 1970 as a single store with 15 employees in a rural community near St. Louis, the TCI network now comprises ten full-service dealerships and two auxiliary locations in Illinois, Indiana, and Missouri, with 750 team members. The group was also the 2014 Successful Dealer Award winner.

“I am thrilled for what this award means for our team,” continued Hopkins. “We have many team members and multi-generational families who have been with us since that 1990 win and before. They understand what an honor this is for us all. We also have a lot of newer folks who have embodied our traditions and legacy with a sense of pride. We have worked to build upon a rich heritage but remain open to innovation, collaboration, and progressive change. I appreciate how they have adapted to our network’s growth, new technology, a pandemic, and internal and external shifts because they make my job so rewarding and meaningful.”

About Truck Centers, Inc.

Truck Centers, Inc. (TCI) is a premier network of medium- and heavy-duty truck dealerships offering Freightliner, Western Star, Freightliner Custom Chassis, and Kalmar/Ottawa products. With a 50+ year heritage, TCI, led by three generations of the Hopkins family, has grown from a single store into a robust network of ten full-service dealerships and two auxiliary locations supported by 750 team members in Illinois, Indiana, and Missouri. Our team’s success is grounded in providing exceptional customer service, an extensive inventory of premium parts, comprehensive service offerings, and complete collision repairs for all makes. As responsible stewards and trusted partners, TCI is committed to delivering exceptional customer service in a collaborative, innovative environment that fosters a communal spirit of giving back. You can learn more by visiting www.truckcentersinc.com

(12/18/23)

Truck centers, inc. ANNOUNCES key LEADERSHIP CHANGE FOR 2024

TROY, Ill. - Truck Centers, Inc. will have a new but familiar face leading the company for the first time since 1976. The prominent network of Freightliner and Western Star truck dealerships announced on Monday, December 18, that Kathrynn (Katie) Hopkins will be appointed CEO effective January 1, 2024. She will succeed her father, M. John Hopkins, IV, who has led the company for nearly 48 years. He will remain active as Chairman of the company's board of directors and Co-Chairman of the Daimler Trucks of North America (DTNA) National Dealer Council.

The company, which Katie's grandfather founded, marks its 54th anniversary in 2024. She becomes a third-generation owner, and the first woman to hold the position of CEO, a significant milestone in the company's history and the industry at large.

"I'm honored and excited to have the opportunity to take on this new role," the succeeding Hopkins stated. "It is a privilege to follow in my father's footsteps and be a responsible steward of TCI and the 750+ employee families and thousands of customers entrusted to us. I plan to continue our long tradition of a people-first culture, sustainable growth, and being a trusted partner to serve our customers and communities to the best of our abilities."

Midwestern Tradition

Truck Centers, Inc. sells and services Freightliner and Western Star trucks. The company has grown from 15 employees at a single store in 1970 to more than 750 team members at ten full-service DTNA dealerships and two auxiliary locations in three states.

John Hopkins led the company through record-setting and challenging times for all but six years. Vice Chairman and minority owner Michael Yates has been by his side for 46 years and will continue his role and mentorship of Sales and customer service teams. Justin Hopkins, Katie's brother and fellow third-generation leader will continue his service as Executive Vice President, leading facility builds and remodels, developing new revenue streams, and personally managing several large customer accounts.

"This transition has been many years in the making," Hopkins said. "Katie and other next-gen members have worked alongside Mike and me for decades. We have seen them evolve and grow into leaders with passion and conviction that will bless our team, customers, and business associates. I have complete confidence that Katie will be a terrific steward of Truck Centers, Inc."

The growth of our business and team, plus pandemic challenges, provided Katie with several opportunities to grow as a leader and develop strategic policies and programs to improve the employee experience and operational efficiencies.

Moving Forward

Katie Hopkins has played an active role in TCI's success since joining the team full-time in 1992. Having grown up in the family business, she immediately connected with our team members and embodied the passion and work ethic that our customers deserve.

She worked her way up the ladder from accounts receivable collector to Office Manager of our St. Louis dealership, then becoming Assistant General Manager and later General Manager of that location. In addition to extensive on-the-job training and practical experience, both Katie and Justin completed an executive dealer education program that NADA and Babson College co-created in 2009. She was promoted to Executive Vice President in 2012 and President/COO in 2018. TCI has grown significantly during Katie's leadership, and she was instrumental in acquiring other dealerships, integrating teams, and developing internal processes and infrastructure to support our growing business.

"My grandfather, father, and Mike have led the business in such an honorable way that I am grateful to be entrusted with this blessing," she said.

Putting people first has long been the Hopkins family's hallmark, exemplified through a family-oriented atmosphere, long tenures, and multigenerational workforce.

"None of this would be possible without our amazing team of talented and dedicated employees," she stated. "To know that my father and Mike have confidence in me and are present mentors during this transition is an honor. And having the enthusiastic support of a team of extremely talented leaders and passionate individuals makes all the hard work worthwhile. I am humbled that they have confidence in me and trust that I will continue our long tradition of doing what is best for our people and customers."

Champion for Industry and the Community

Aside from TCI, Katie actively supports the greater truck dealer industry and the communities we serve. She currently serves on the boards of the Missouri Auto Dealers Association, St. Louis Regional Business Council, Southwestern Illinois Leadership Council, Better Business Bureau of St. Louis, and St. Louis Children's Hospital. Previously, she was the inaugural Next Gen Committee Chairperson for the American Truck Dealers Association, Daimler Elite Support Dealer Advisory Group member, keynote speaker for Cummins, Inc.'s Women Empowerment Network, DTNA Customer Experience Day keynote speaker for a panel of trucking industry female leaders, and a legislative liaison advancing NADA and ATD initiatives on Capitol Hill.

"Truck Centers, Inc. is a strong family business, and I am excited that with the new leadership, we will continue to build on our long-standing partnership between our two companies to support our mutual customers to keep the world moving," said Russ Nielsen, Director of Distribution Strategy & Operations at Daimler Truck North America. "I look forward to Katie continuing to play an important role in the transportation industry and in her community."

As a female leader in the automotive/trucking sector, Hopkins is passionate about encouraging and supporting other women in leadership. She credits her father for creating an environment that provided leadership opportunities for talented women during an era where it was uncommon in our industry.

She added, "I grew up seeing strong and capable women lead departments and dealerships. While we operate in a male-dominated industry, I knew that anything was possible with hard work and earning the respect of your colleagues. Not seeing the same representation at a larger scale has made me recognize that I must continually strive to mentor others."

She hopes to continue that tradition of creating limitless opportunities for those who want to learn, grow, and work hard in the next generation. One can be confident that the next chapter of Truck Centers' story will be one of selfless dedication, passion, and commitment to being the best company possible.

About Truck Centers, Inc.

Truck Centers, Inc. (TCI) is a premier network of medium- and heavy-duty truck dealerships renowned for offering industry-leading brands such as Freightliner, Western Star, and Freightliner Custom Chassis. With a 50+ year heritage, TCI, led by three generations of the Hopkins family, has grown from a single store into a robust network of ten full-service dealerships and two auxiliary locations supported by 750 dedicated team members in Illinois, Indiana, and Missouri. Our success is grounded in a talented team and shared goal of providing exceptional customer service, an extensive inventory of premium parts, comprehensive service offerings from certified technicians, and diverse body shop and collision repair services for trucks and RVs. As responsible stewards and trusted partners, TCI is committed to delivering exceptional customer service in a collaborative, innovative environment that fosters a communal spirit of giving back. For more information, visit www.truckcentersinc.com.

(11/15/21)

TCI EXPANDS WESTERN STAR BRAND PORTFOLIO THROUGH RECENT FRANCHISE ACQUISITION

Truck Centers, Inc. (TCI) continues to expand its brand portfolio at the heart of its network of Freightliner and Western Star dealerships that also support the Detroit brand across Illinois, Indiana, and Missouri. Today, TCI officials announced the purchase of the Western Star franchise from Springfield Tractor & Trailer Sales, Inc. (STTSI) in Springfield, Illinois.

Dennis and John Weakly, owners of STTSI, and their family have proudly served trucking customers throughout central Illinois since 1974 through truck and trailer sales, leasing, and repair services. Unlike other Truck Centers’ acquisitions, the two companies will remain operating independently, with STTSI retaining their used truck sales and repair services as well as trailer sales & leasing operations at their current location. At the same time, TCI will assume the Western Star franchise and handle all truck sales, parts, and service operations at their existing Freightliner dealership located at 2981 Singer Avenue in Springfield.

“We have operated harmoniously alongside STTSI for decades to mutually serve the trucking customers of central Illinois,” stated TCI vice-chairman Michael F. Yates. “The Weakly family built a successful business and cultivated strong relationships with customers by focusing on quality products and exceptional customer service. We share these same values and a passion for building relationships that grow through generations. With TCI already having an established presence in the region via our Springfield Freightliner dealership, adding the Western Star brand to our portfolio is a natural fit. Our other nine full-service dealerships are dual-branded Freightliner and Western Star. This agreement will benefit our mutual customers as it allows for continuous brand representation from eastern Missouri through Illinois and into our AOR in Indiana. This translates to an experienced team of professionals well-versed with the Western Star brand and an enhanced network of parts, service, and collision repair resources for our customers. We are grateful that Dennis and John entrust their Western Star customers and legacy to us and look forward to working together for their best interests and that of heavy-duty trucking in our region.”

While Western Star dealer operations will transfer to TCI-Springfield, the Weakly family will continue to operate STTSI with a continued focus on their core business offerings. Both parties have expressed plans to have the agreement finalized by the yearend.

(10/25/19)

SIx truck centers, inc. salesman earn leland james elite honors

Truck Centers, Inc. is honored to have six veteran members of their sales force recognized as 2018-2019 Leland James Elite Award winners. The most recent class of “Elite status” winners were announced yesterday. Ron Donze of TCI-Troy remains the only individual to earn this distinction every year since the program was founded in 2003 in honor of Freightliner Trucks’ founder, Leland James, to recognize and reward outstanding dealer sales professionals from the United States and Canada.

Recipients were selected for on-highway, medium-duty, and vocational sales success as well as total number of customers, conquest account achievement, and training certifications during 2018-2019. This year’s recipients from TCI are all veterans of the program.

Elite Trip Winner
Ron Donze (TCI-Troy)

Elite Winners
Justin Hopkins (TCI-Foristell/Morton/Troy)
Dave Klockow (TCI-Elkhart)
Jeff Osborne (TCI-Evansville)
Joe Switzer (TCI-Troy)
Trevor Yates (TCI-Troy/St. Louis)

“We are all proud of Ron and the other five Leland James Award winners. They are all veteran salesman and true professionals in every sense of the word, so it is no surprise they are once again recognized by Freightliner for their dedication to the brand and our mutual customers,” stated Mike Yates, TCI vice-chairman. “Thanks to our entire team for assisting before and after the sale for complete customer satisfaction and, of course, our customers for their trust and support.”

(10/9/19)

FREIGHTLINER/WESTERN STAR DEALER DIRECTOR RECOGNIZED AS FINALIST FOR women in business stevie award

Michelle Petroff, Strategic Initiatives Director for Truck Centers, Inc., has been named a finalist in the Employee of the Year category for the prestigious 16th Annual Stevie® Awards for Women in Business. Michelle leads and oversees various corporate change initiatives and communications projects to help bolster the presence of the Freightliner / Western Star Trucks’ dealer with customers, employees, and the communities that they serve via 12 dealership locations.

“It is a great honor to be recognized by the panel of 16th Annual Stevie® Awards for Women in Business as a finalist for the Employee of the Year recognition,” stated Petroff. “As someone who does not fit neatly into a compartmentalized communications, marketing, or operations role, it has been an honor to work for leaders who took a chance on a ‘creative’ type like me and provided an environment that supports dreamers, big ideas, and never being idle. Together, we have accomplished so many initiatives that I am proud of because they have helped position our company as a recognized industry leader rooted in a culture of continuous improvement.”

The Stevie®Awards for Women in Business recognize female executives, entrepreneurs, employees, and the global companies that they lead. Finalists were determined by their average scores from 150 corporate leaders from around the globe working through seven juries. Their scores will determine the Gold, Silver, and Bronze honors that will be revealed at a gala reception in New York City on November 15, 2019.

This year’s installment of the Women in Business awards also drew a record-setting 1,500 entries from around the world for the 90 categories of competition. As the Stevie®Awards have been recognized as the most prestigious business honors, it is no surprise that 60% of the finalists in her category are from outside of the United States.

More information on the program and the finalists is available online at www.stevieawards.com/women.

UPDATE: Michelle Petroff, Strategic Initiatives Director for Truck Centers, Inc., has been named the winner of a Silver Stevie® Award in the Employee of the Year category. Over 1,500 nominations came from all types of industries in 25 nations. The awards were presented to winners ata dinner event attended by more than 550 people at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City. Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Award winners were determined by the average scores of more than 150 business professionalsaround the world, working on eight juries.

(8/9/19)

KATIE HOPKINS RECOGNIZED AS ONE OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL BUSINESS WOMEN IN ST. LOUIS

Katie Hopkins was not always so certain that she would work in the family business, Truck Centers, Inc. Sure, she had grown up around the company — working summers by answering phones and filing invoices — but with an interest in traveling and politics, other professions originally captured her attention.

However, as she reached adulthood, Hopkins discovered that not all companies share the same core values that a family business like Truck Centers does.

“Growing up in the business, working here since I was 12, I was able to see the family atmosphere that thrives,” she said. “The people I worked with for all of these years were already part of the family.”

And with a variety of experience working in different roles at Truck Centers, the $428 million truck dealer group based in Troy, Illinois, that her father M. John Hopkins IV has led since 1976, Hopkins’ skillset made her a valuable commodity at the business. After graduating from Truman State University, she worked in several jobs at the company before taking the role of general manager of its flagship store in Troy. Eventually, Hopkins worked her way up to president and COO, a position she was promoted to last year.

"Katie has grown tremendously over the last many years in leadership and management for Truck Centers," said Vice Chairman Michael Yates. "She has helped establish better communication within departments, department to department, facility to facility, corporate to facilities and even with our manufacturer and vendor partners."

In addition to company expansion over the past few years, Hopkins has placed a greater emphasis on leadership development inside the company. She’s spearheaded development programs for continual improvement, cultural investments, leadership development and a pilot mentorship program.

“It’s a changing workforce,” Hopkins, 45, said. “In terms of baby boomers and those under 40, how do you merge them both together and elevate your workforce? That’s what we’re doing.”

Those human resources functions are guaranteeing the future of the company, Yates said.

“She has progressed from managing our largest facilities to overseeing our overall operations. She has played a major role in our development of becoming a better place to work, gaining the respect of our 700+ team members,” he said.

In addition to assisting the company’s philanthropic efforts with St. Louis Children’s Hospital, Gene Slay’s Girls & Boys Club of St. Louis, Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital and Toys for Tots, Hopkins is a board member of the Leadership Council of Southwestern Illinois and the Missouri Auto Dealers’ Association.

Outside the office, Hopkins likes to exercise and hike outdoors with her husband, David.

(3/6/19)

TCI-EFFINGHAM FLIES HIGH

Motorists passing through Interstate 57-70 corridor will have a new sight to see — an American flag flying 80 feet high.

The large flag, which measures 20 by 30 feet, is on the property of Truck Centers Inc. and was raised by Truck Centers employees Wednesday afternoon. It is flown along with a First Responders flag. It will be illuminated from dusk to dawn with four large lights.

“We’ve looked forward to this day,” said Anthony Johnson, general manger at Truck Centers Inc. “We’re proud to have the flag raised up.”

It took some time to determine the best, most visible location for the flag once the business opened, then erecting and lighting of the flag pole.

Truck Centers opened in April 2017. The sales, service and parts dealership specializes in Freightliner and Western Star trucks. It is located at 1700 Gillenwater Avenue, off exit 159 on Interstate 57-70.

“Truck Centers and our employees are very patriotic and we have a lot of respect for veterans and men and women in uniform,” said Johnson. “And for first responders, we want to show our appreciation for what they do.”

The company has flags at its other locations, however, the Effingham location is the largest, according to Johnson.

Visitors at the flag-raising ceremony said this will be just as notable as the iconic large cross visible from the interstates. While The Cross at the Crossroads is on the east side of the interstates, this new flag is on the west side, both which should be visible from Exit 160 going south, or about the Interstates 57-70 split, going north.

It took some time to determine the best, most visible location for the flag once the business opened, then erecting and lighting of the flag pole.

(8/30/18)

Truck Centers, INC. RECOGNIZED WITH 2018 MULTI-GENERATIONAL FAMILY BUSINESS AWARD

Truck Centers, Inc., a Freightliner/Western Star truck network of ten full-service dealerships and two auxiliary locations in the St. Louis metro, Illinois, and Indiana was recognized this week as one of nine companies earning the “2018 Family Business Award” distinction.

For the third year, the St. Louis Business Journal selected 3 recipients for the honor from 2nd generation, 3rd generation, and 4th generation and beyond categories based upon longevity, entrepreneurship, perseverance, creativity, and community involvement. More than 65 nominations were considered, reflecting St. Louis’ large number of family businesses that have been successful for generations.

Truck Centers, along with the other winners, will be honored in an awards ceremony and dinner on October 11th and profiles of each of the companies will be featured in the October 12th edition of the Business Journal.

Truck Centers, Inc., is currently in its 48th year of business and is being led by members of the second and third generation of the Hopkins family. The company under the leadership of Chairman/CEO, John Hopkins, and minority owner/President, Michael Yates, has flourished and grown into one of the nation’s premier truck dealer groups with over 700 team members in three states. The leadership team is very proud of their shared accomplishments and would like to thank of the loyal customers, suppliers, and team members who have made it all possible.

(8/23/18)

Truck Centers, INC. APPOINTS NEW GENERAL MANAGER IN EVANSVILLE

John Kobylanski has been appointed general manager of the Evansville branch of Truck Centers, Inc.

Kobylanski has more than 14 years of management experience and most recently served as a Customer Support Manager for TCI. His promotion allows current general manager, Buddy Shires, to focus on helping solidify our brand and enhance customer experiences as regional manager.

“We are proud of the work John has done thus far with Truck Centers and look forward to what the future holds at our Evansville dealership,” says Katie Hopkins, executive vice president of Truck Centers, Inc. “John has a proven customer service record and helping drive change in his previous positions, so we are fortunate to have him on our team. His acceptance of this new role will allow Buddy Shires to focus on his regional leadership of various TCI locations to enhance our customers’ experiences and foster new business.”

Kobylanski graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from Missouri Valley College. He resides in Mt. Vernon, Ill., with his wife, Bekki, and their family. In his free time, John enjoys grilling, time with his family, running and following the Chicago White Sox, Green Bay Packers and Fighting Irish.

(6/14/18)

Truck Centers, INC. OPENS NEWLY CONSTRUCTED DEALERSHIP IN FORISTELL

The newest dealership in the Truck Centers, Inc. network marks a homecoming of sorts. The Illinois-based, family-owned company previously developed the property and operated pre-owned sales facility during the turn of the millennium before selling the property to Daimler Trucks North America. In recent years, the business demands for TCI’s small St. Peters dealership surpassed the workload that they could handle and the property was repurchased. This month, a newly constructed facility opened along the I-70 frontage just west of the Foristell interchange at exit 203.

Initial plans were to add a service shop and additional facilities to the existing building; but, after extensive review, the 19 year-old building was razed and a state-of-the-art, 52,000 sq. ft. Morton Building was constructed. The new TCI-Foristell dealership houses a veteran sales staff, 15,000 sq. ft. parts warehouse, retail parts department, and service department as well as premier customer amenities including a plush customer lounge with Wi-Fi, satellite TV, laundry and shower facilities, refreshments and free local shuttle service. Thirteen DTNA certified technicians work in 21 state-of-the-art service bays performing warranty repairs, maintenance, service work and mobile service repairs on all brands of commercial and large recreational vehicles.

“We are pleased to be a part of the Foristell and Warren County communities to further support the needs of local and interstate customers by adding our newest full-service dealership to bolster support along this heavily traveled I-70 corridor,” said Justin Hopkins, Vice President of Sales for Truck Centers Inc.

“Relocating our operations from St. Peters to Foristell provides us the opportunity to serve customers more efficiently and increasing their uptime. This dealership is great addition to the Freightliner and Western dealer network across North America as well as within the Truck Centers’ family,” added Hopkins.

The Foristell location officially opened for business in June and created 17 new jobs within the local community. Easy access is available from exit 200 or 203 on I-70 as the dealership sits between both exits on the North Service Road with nearby amenities including fuel travel plazas, hotels and restaurants.

(5/10/18)

Truck Centers, INC. REMAINS ONE OF THE TOP 150 PRIVATELY-HELD COMPANIES in ST. LOUIS

Once again, Truck Centers, Inc. is poised comfortably as one of the top 150 privately-held companies by the St. Louis Business Journal in the 63rd position. After seeing revenue dip slightly in 2017, Troy, Illinois-based Truck Centers Inc. has started off strong in 2018. The company, which owns and operates dealerships that sell heavy-duty trucks, has experienced a robust first quarter in 2018, and expects the remainder of the year to follow suit, said Katie Hopkins, executive vice president.

Truck Centers Inc. added a dealership in Effingham, Illinois, last year, which is the company’s 10th full-service dealership. The new 32,600-square-foot facility, located on 12 acres along the I-57/I-70 corridor, opened in June. The company also has started construction on a new dealership in Foristell, Missouri, which is slated to open this summer, Hopkins said.

Truck Centers is owned by the Hopkins family, which founded it in 1970. President Michael Yates has been a minority owner since 1992.

Add any jobs in 2017? 19 locally and 39 companywide, in parts counter, service advisers, service technicians and administrative staff.

Adding any jobs in 2018? 20 locally, 30 companywide in parts counter, service advisers, service technicians and administrative staff.

Read the Full List

(4/25/18)

Truck Centers, INC. LAUNCHES NEW MOBILE RESPONSIVE WEBSITE FOR IMPROVED CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

Truck Centers, Inc. recently announced the launch of their new website to provide an enhanced customer-oriented experience with a wealth of easily accessible information.

The new virtual home of TCI is built on an ultra-modern platform that is mobile responsive to allow for an improved user experience from any type of device. Visitors can easily engage with any area of the database-driven platform to search truck inventory, dealership services, detailed location information and so much more.

“This new website is a significant upgrade to our previous platform and shows how far technology and the development team have come in the last two years,” states Michelle Petroff, Truck Centers, Inc. marketing manager. “They have really improved the responsiveness for mobile platforms, which is critical as more of our customers are accessing information from smartphones and tablets. The design change and move to a new platform was driven by our desire to bolster support and functionality for a premier customer experience.”

On the site, customers can not only find in-depth information about the TCI legacy and leadership; but also, details on the different dealership services and amenities including dealership location landing pages, filtered truck inventory searches, financing, service appointment scheduling, Elite Support, special services, parts requests, promotions, training services and collision repair. A streamlined navigation helps customers access the information they need in fewer clicks.

To experience it for yourself, log on to http://www.truckcentersinc.com from your computer or mobile device.

(4/17/18)

Truck Centers Brings Western Star to Indiana Locations

Truck Centers, Inc. (TCI), announced Tuesday it has added Western Star franchises to both of its locations in South Bend and Elkhart, Ind.

The two northern Indiana locations expands the dealer network’s expansive regional coverage of this premium brand of the Daimler Trucks North America lineup. TCI also sells and services Western Star trucks at seven other locations – Troy, Mount Vernon, Morton and Effingham, Ill.; St. Peters and St. Louis, Mo.; and Evansville, Ind.

“We are pleased to add another dedicated Western Star sales and service point in our network as part of our ongoing commitment to providing the best products and services to our customers,” says Katie Hopkins, executive vice president of Truck Centers, Inc. “We would like to extend our thanks to Bill Hoelscher, DTNA Northeast region dealer operations manager, for his guidance and support through this process as we work together making Western Star products more accessible in new markets.”

TCI says it acquired the Freightliner franchises and dealer assets from Hill Truck Sales for the two locations in January 2016 and has already started the formal process working towards Freightliner Elite Support certification for these stores. With the South Bend location also being a member of the Freightliner Custom Chassis Oasis Network, TCI says it is excited for the momentum and opportunities still to come as its team is committed to providing customers in the region with a best-in-class experience for sales, parts, service and collision repair.

“We are excited to now offer the Western Star brand to our customers and provide them with a versatile truck that is king of the road for both highway and vocational applications,” adds Tyler Yates, general manager of both northern Indiana locations. “With our current network in southern Indiana, Illinois and eastern Missouri being deeply rooted in the brand, we are well positioned to provide unparalleled support and service in the region.

“With our extreme weather and location on one of the country’s major transportation corridors, I am confident that our customers will love the performance and durability that is synonymous with Western Star and still feel confident in the Truck Centers’ commitment to exceptional customer service.”

(11/8/17)

Six Members of Truck Centers, Inc.’s Sales Force Honored with Leland James Honors

TROY, Ill. - Six members of Truck Centers, Inc.’s sales force were recently recognized for their outstanding performance and honored with Leland James Sales Achievement Awards.

Created in 2003 and named after Freightliner Trucks’ founder, Leland James, the program recognizes and rewards outstanding sales executives from dealerships in the United States and Canada. Achievement is based on successful sales in on-highway, medium-duty and severe-duty categories as well as other criteria including their total customer base and ongoing training and certifications. Each winner will receive a custom plaque and gift and the Top-32 brand experts will be honored at a special awards ceremony and a trip to Hawaii with a guest.

Three members of the Troy sales team consisting of Ron Donze, Trevor Yates, and Joe Switzer have been recognized as best in class as a Top 32 Elite trip winners. Ron continues his streak as the only Freightliner sales executive to receive this honor since the program was founded. Elkhart’s Dave Klockow is also recognized as a Top 32 Elite trip winner for his wide variety of customers and dedication to going the extra mile for them.

Additionally, Mike Yates, our corporate Sales Manager, has also earned the well-deserved trip to Hawaii for his ongoing leadership and expertise. Jeff Osborne, from our Evansville dealership, was also named a Top 100 Elite award recipient for his continued commitment to excellence.

We truly believe that our sales professionals are the best of the best and continually display the work ethic and professionalism that it takes to be at the top of the industry. They are directly invested in their customers’ ongoing satisfaction and are very hands-on long after the sale in the name of customer service. Not only do they stay current with trends, OEM certifications, and training; but also, coach and mentor our entire team. However, these awards would not be possible without the ongoing commitment to unparalleled customer service and hard work put forth by every TCI employee throughout our entire organization. Job well done!

(6/20/17)

Truck Centers Inc. Opens 10th Full-Service Dealership in Effingham

The 47-year-old, family-owned company represents Freightliner and Western Star trucks at its 10 dealerships and three auxiliary facilities located in Illinois, Indiana and Missouri. The newest location is situated on 12 acres along the Interstate 57/70 corridor to assist local and interstate customers with enhanced parts and service support.

The 32,600-square-foot facility houses sales, parts and service departments, as well as premier customer amenities, including a plush customer lounge with wi-fi, satellite TV, laundry and shower facilities, refreshments and free local shuttle service. Fourteen technicians, including nine DTNA G2 certified techs, work in 15 state-of-the-art service bays performing certified warranty repairs, maintenance, service work and mobile service repairs on all brands of commercial and large recreational vehicles.

“We are pleased to be a part of the Effingham community and to further support the needs of local and interstate customers by adding our newest full-service dealership to bolster support in Illinois along the heavily traveled Indianapolis to St. Louis corridor,” said Justin Hopkins, Vice President of Sales for Truck Centers Inc.

“Effingham is an ideal location for customer’s traveling through the tri-state area and a great addition to the Freightliner and Western dealer network across North America,” said Martin Osborne, General Manager of Distribution Network Development for Daimler Trucks North America.

The Effingham location officially opened for business in April and has already served over 2,250 customers in its first 60 days of business and created 35 new jobs within the local community.

(3/24/17)

Truck Centers Named One of Region’s Fastest Growing Companies

By Steph Kukuljan, SLBJ

No. 21

Revenue growth: 78.58%

Truck Centers Inc.’s growth since 2012 has been almost as big as the heavy-duty trucks the company’s dealerships sell. Revenue grew nearly 79 percent from 2013 to $382.15 million in 2015.

“2015 was a strong year for trucking, our industry and our company,” Executive Vice President Katie Hopkins said. “Now with three Indiana dealerships as part of our network, our reach has expanded some but we do so in a methodical manner as to be able to fully-integrate new stores without compromising quality, customer service or our leadership’s dedication to each branch.”

Truck Centers sells Daimler Trucks North America products including Freightliner, Detroit Performance and Western Star. Truck Centers bought two dealerships in Indiana, in South Bend and Elkhart, from Hill Truck Sales earlier this year. It bought an Evansville, Indiana, dealership in 2014. Those dealerships are expected to expand the company’s geographic reach, Hopkins said. Financial details were not disclosed.

“We still have a lot of work to do at our two newest acquisitions in northern Indiana in terms of facilities and behind-the-scenes resourcing, technical upgrades, training, and conversions to help our employees have the best processes and resources available to utilize,” Hopkins said.

Truck Centers also will open a dealership in Effingham, Illinois — a property Hopkins said the company has owned for 20 years. The company is in the final pre-planning stages, she said.

The company is expecting growth to slow this year due to the cyclical nature of the trucking and transportation industries, Hopkins said. “Our manufacturers’ order boards are already showing some throttling. And we are acutely aware that this is the nature of our business.”

Founded in 1970 by the Hopkins family, Truck Centers is a family-owned business based in Troy, Illinois.

Adding any jobs? Hiring the 65 employees from the purchase of two Indiana dealerships and 25 jobs for the start-up phase of the Effingham, Illinois facility.

Leadership: Milton John Hopkins IV, chairman and CEO; Michael Yates, president; Katie Hopkins, executive vice president; Justin Hopkins, vice president of sales.

(3/17/17)

Truck Centers, Inc. Named One of St. Louis Area’s Top-150 Privately Held Businesses

2015 revenue: $382.15 million

+20.3%

Growth across all departments led to a more than 20% estimated increase in revenue for Truck Centers, Inc. in 2015.

The company, which owns and operates dealerships that sell heavy-duty trucks, reported increased revenue in its new and used truck sales, parts and service divisions as well as training and collision repair. In addition, the company acquired a dealership in Evansville, Indiana, in 2014, and 2015 was the first full year that the dealership was part of TCI’s network. TCI sells and services Daimler Trucks North America products such as Freightliner, Western Star and Detroit Performance Parts. Katie Hopkins, executive vice president for TCI, said these manufacturers now hold a record-setting market share of nearly 40 percent “so there are more DTNA products on the road than ever before,” which translates into increased sales and opportunities for TCI.

In 2016, TCI acquired the assets of two Indiana dealerships — in South Bend and Elkhart — from Hill Truck Sales. The company also recently announced plans to open a dealership in Effingham, Illinois, in late 2016. The Effingham location will be TCI’s 10th full-service dealership.

Add any jobs in 2015? Locally, 23 — eight new position at the Troy, Illinois, dealership; five new corporate positions; five new positions at our downtown St. Louis dealership; and five at our St. Peters dealership. Companywide, we added 36, primarily to fill increasing administrative, parts and service technician needs.

Adding any jobs in 2016? We are planning to add one to two new truck sales executives in our local market as well as five to seven service technicians and two to four members to our retail parts sales team. Factoring in the 10 additional jobs in the St. Louis region that we forecast, plus the 65 new team members for the recently acquired locations in northern Indiana, and the projected 25 employees necessary to open our new location in Effingham, it is estimated that we will add 100 new employees to our team in 2016. These new openings will primarily be service technicians, retail parts specialists, administrative support, and management positions.

Local employees: 265

Total employees: 488

Leadership: John Hopkins, chairman and CEO; Mike Yates, president and minority owner

QUICK LOOK AT THE TOP-25

2016 Top-150 Privately Held Companies

(Ranked by 2015 Revenue)

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Edward Jones ($6.62B)
Graybar Electric Co. Inc. ($6.1B)
Apex Oil Co. Inc ($3.5B)
McCarthy Holdings Inc. ($2.8B)
Prairie Farms Dairy Inc. ($2.76B)
Schnuck Markets Inc ($2.7B)
Alberici Corp. ($2.47B)
Barry-Wehmiller Group ($2B)
Piasa Enterprises Inc ($1.8B)
CCA Global Partners Inc ($1.7B)
UniGroup ($1.7B)
Novus International Inc. ($1.4B)
Center Oil Co. ($1.37B)
Bommarito Automotive Group ($1.35B)
Harbour Group ($1.3B)
Maschhoff Family Foods LLC ($1.3B)
Alter Trading Corp. ($1.21B)
Kataman Metals LLC ($1.2B)
Maritz ($1.2B)
Scottrade Financial Services Inc. ($1.11B)
Centric Group ($1B)
CIC Group Inc. ($952M)
TricorBraun ($911.42M)

(11/24/15)

Truck Centers, Inc. Announced Agreement to Purchase the Assets of Hill Truck

The acquisition gives the company nine full-service dealerships, two auxiliary locations and one on-site customer parts facility with 202 technicians working in 217 bays. It also adds a fourth collision center to the TCI network and 57 employees will be welcomed into the Truck Centers’ family that John Hopkins, Chairman and CEO of Truck Centers, Inc., says is now 611 team members strong.

“Allen and Dave Hill have cultivated a strong team in their 54 years of business serving northern Indiana and we are looking forward to continuing their legacy as well as adding our like-minded commitment to customer service, expansive resources, and the assets of our larger network to make this a successful pairing not only for our new employees but also our customers in South Bend, Elkhart, and surrounding communities,” he says.

Hopkins says the South Bend and Elkhart locations will remain under its current leadership, including Dennis Ziolkowski and department managers.

Tyler Yates, part of the TCI leadership team, will relocate to the area to help integrate the Hill operations into the Truck Centers’ family.

Part of the ownership family, Yates has been with TCI for his “entire life,” working over the years in parts delivery, warehouse, service advisor, assistant GM, and, most recently, outside service sales. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and MBA from William Woods University and is a graduate of ATD’s Truck Dealer Academy. Ziolkowski and Yates will work closely with Dave Hill to ensure a smooth transition.

“While we are leaving a key part of who we are in the company that we developed over the last five decades, we are happy to leave our valued employees and customers in good hands,” says Dave Hill, the second-generation owner of Hill Truck Sales. “Years ago at an industry event, my dad, Allen, caught up with John Hopkins as he was boarding a bus. John was a real mover and shaker in the industry and took time to chat with us and not be in a rush as many would have been and that left an impact because dad said if he were to ever sell his business, he would want it to be to John Hopkins. Here we are with many years between then and now and we still have the same confidence and look forward to a bright future for our company as it becomes part of something greater.”

(11/3/15)

Truck Centers, Inc. Prepares to Break Ground on New Effingham Dealership

Expansion broadens service coverage for family-owned, Freightliner dealer network

TROY, Ill. –Truck Centers, Inc., which operates an expansive family-owned network of Freightliner/Western Star/Sprinter dealerships in Illinois, Missouri, and southern Indiana, announced today that they are preparing to break ground on a new, full-service dealership in Effingham, Ill.

The I-57/I-70 traffic corridor of Effingham with approximately 18,000 trucks traveling daily through there provides an ideal setting for the newest addition to TCI’s network that currently consists of 7 premier, full-service truck dealerships; 2 auxiliary locations; and 1 customer on-site parts facility in the region that include stores in Mt. Vernon, Ill., and Evansville, Ind. TCI-Effingham is projected to open Summer 2016 and is anticipated to bring 25 new jobs in administration, operations, parts and service roles at the time of opening. The company forecasts intended growth to double in the subsequent 48-60 months.

“We are excited to announce our plans to develop the property that we have held in Effingham and build the newest addition to the Truck Centers’ family,” stated Katie Hopkins, Executive Vice President of Truck Centers, Inc. “It is the perfect capstone for TCI’s 45th anniversary and a market that we have planned to enter into for several years and everything has finally aligned to make it happen. Not only will our customers benefit from the convenient access and amenities of the new dealership; but also, the greater community with new employment opportunities, tax revenue and customer traffic plus the 15+ other businesses in Effingham that serve our mutual customers.”

Truck Centers, Inc. has a proven 45-year tradition of excellence and has grown from a single store into the existing network of 7 premier, full-service dealerships; 2 auxiliary locations and 1 customer on-site parts facility under the leadership of Chairman/CEO John Hopkins, President Mike Yates, and their families. The cornerstones of the company’s success are their small-town values, award-winning team of dedicated employees, diverse resources, and willingness to continually grow and adapt to new technology to better serve our customers. The addition of a new dealership in Effingham is the next step on our proven path of commitment to the products, people, and communities that we serve.

(9/1/15)

Thriving at 45: Family-Owned Freightliner Dealer Celebrates Anniversary with Continued Growth

TROY, Ill. – Milton John Hopkins, III, and two business partners joined together 45 years ago purchasing a White Motor Truck franchise to start a modest truck dealership called Highland White Autocar. The original team of 15 employees in 1970 had the difficult task of establishing a new business and cultivating customers but made $1 Million in sales during their inaugural year. Construction soon began on a new 15,000 sq. ft. facility to meet customer needs and business operations moved the following year to the other side of Highland, a small community 30 miles from St. Louis.

As Freightliner announced plans in 1975 to distribute its own vehicles, the dealership was also in a period of leadership uncertainty as Mr. Hopkins faced medical issues. In 1976, his son, M. John Hopkins, IV, was up to the task and assumed leadership of the company and became a shareholder while the other two partners left the business to pursue other opportunities. The younger Hopkins’ first foray into dealer management was successful as the company was recognized with “Regional Dealer of the Year” honors and was one of the first dealerships to be awarded a Freightliner franchise.

The successes did not come easy and were definitely the culmination of hard work, grit, a remarkable team, and substantial personal sacrifice. Hopkins and his sister even put their personal assets on the line to plead the bank to give them a time to get the business turned around during a period of crisis. The company went from the brink of collapse to continued growth and success because of cornerstone principles of doing the right thing and providing exceptional service each and every time. In 1979, the company expanded to Mt. Vernon, Ill., and was recognized as a Freightliner “Regional Dealer of the Year”, a recognition that would repeat several more times over the decades just as additional locations continued to be added under the Truck Centers’ banner.

The trend continued of new sales records, acquisitions, and growth but the same small town values and customer service remained strong. This blend of progressive leadership and a strong moral compass kept the team strong and helped forge solid customer relationships. In 1984, all business operations other than body shop services left Highland for an expansive new facility with direct highway frontage on I-55/70/270 in Troy, Illinois. And in 1990, Truck Centers, Inc. received the most prestigious distinction that a dealer team can receive in our industry – the American Truck Dealers’ “Dealer of the Year Award”. This award can only be received one time during the leadership of the dealer principal and is a true testament that John Hopkins and his team managed this only 14 years after assuming the helm.

Just 2 years later, Michael F. Yates, a trusted, longtime employee that rose through the ranks, became a minority owner in the company. Fast forward 23 years and Hopkins and Yates are still a dynamic force of leadership and are now joined by their children in the business. Katie Hopkins serves as Executive Vice President and General Manager of the flagship Troy location while her brother, Justin Hopkins, recently departed his General Manager role to assume the title of Vice President of Sales to dedicate his time to working closely with the TCI sales force and customers to find the best possible truck and specifications for each unique application. Trevor Yates is a Sales Executive based in Troy and has been recognized multiple times as a national top performer by Freightliner with the prestigious Leland James Sales Achievement Award. His younger brother, Tyler Yates, has worked in various locations and in parts and service and is currently our Customer Service Representative assisting customers using his diverse knowledge and experience. The Truck Centers’ team also has a strong multi-generational representation amongst employees with several families having two and three generations working alongside one another.

“I am proud to have watched Truck Centers, Inc. flourish from Highland White Autocar into the amazing company that it is today,” recalled Chairman/CEO, Milton John Hopkins, IV. “The small company of 15 dedicated employees in 1970 laid the cornerstones of our corporate values and commitment to customer service that now extends across three states and 549 employees. It is an honor to work alongside great people as we continue to build valuable relationships with customers by delivering premium products and services.”

After continued expansion, the company simply outgrew the original building and constructed a new 161,000 sq. ft. facility in 2000 for corporate offices, parts, sales, and service while the body shop and emergency services’ departments remained in the original building. Simultaneously, a state-of-the-art Training Center was also built on the Troy campus. The 24,000 sq. ft. Training Center is recognized as one of Daimler Trucks North America’s best dealer-owned training facilities and has award-winning, fully-certified instructors that offer classroom and hands-on training for Truck Centers’ employees as well as technicians from other dealerships and customer fleets.

The growth of the Troy campus is mirrored in the entire company as it continues to thrive and grow by expansion and acquisitions. Truck Centers currently consists of 549 team members working at 7 full-service dealerships, 2 auxiliary locations and one on-site customer parts facility in the St. Louis metro area, throughout central and southern Illinois, and southern Indiana. Additional expansion is also on the horizon for the company as it is enjoying some of its best business years. Trucks cannot come fast enough as customers are benefitting from the exceptional fuel economy and technological advancements offered by Freightliner, Western Star and Detroit. We are excited for what the future holds for our customers, employees, and the communities that we serve.

“Truck Centers, Inc. is fortunate to represent the broad spectrum of Daimler Trucks North America brands but I believe that our best resources are actually the people within Truck Centers,” added Hopkins. “Our team members are what helps distinguish us because of their dedication to the products that we represent and passion for helping our customers. Forty-five years of handshakes, personal commitments, and delivery is what has allowed for this milestone celebration.”

(6/2/14)

Truck Centers, Inc. Expands Dealer Network and Acquires Assets of Freightliner of Evansville

TROY, Ill. – Truck Centers, Inc., which operates a family-owned network of Freightliner/Western Star dealerships in Illinois and Missouri, announced today that it has completed the acquisition of Freightliner of Evansville.

“This acquisition expands our presence in the Midwest and, more importantly, our Elite Support service network allowing us to better serve our customers and maximize their uptime,” stated Katie Hopkins, Vice President of Truck Centers, Inc.

“Rip Nichols and his Freightliner of Evansville team have created solid, award-winning dealership and we are looking forward to continuing the standard of excellence that they have cultivated plus add our like-minded commitment to customer service, expansive resources and the assets of our larger network to make this a successful pairing not only for our new employees but also our customers in the Evansville community. Our Truck Centers - Evansville location will remain under the leadership of Buddy Shires and current management so team members will continue normal business operations for continuity and seamless customer service,” added Hopkins.

Truck Centers, Inc. has a proven 44-year tradition of excellence and has grown from a single store into a network of 7 premier, full-service dealerships; 2 auxiliary locations and 1 customer on-site parts facility under the leadership of Chairman/CEO John Hopkins; President Mike Yates; and their families. The cornerstones of the company’s success are their small-town values, award-winning team of dedicated employees, extensive resources and inventory offerings, and willingness to continually grow and adapt to new technology to better serve our customers. The addition of Truck Centers – Evansville is the next step on our proven path of commitment to the products, people and communities that we serve.