Used car dealership brings 'miles of smiles'

CRESTVIEW — Denise and Allen Key have been in the automobile business for decades.

The couple spent over 30 years in Atlanta selling used automobiles, but now they have opened a mom and pop business called Car Connection in Northwest Florida.

The dealership offers everything from trucks to SUVs. Customers can do a trade-in when buying a car from the lot. The business' slogan "miles of smiles" is a driving force behind the Keys' approach to selling cars.

“We pride ourselves on selling really nice, used vehicles,” Denise said. “It’s not just about selling a car, it’s about doing what’s right for the customer.”

Allen began his journey in the car business as a used car salesman before going to work with Denise’s brother in the automotive wholesale area. A few years later, he started his own business in Georgia.

When the economy crashed in 2008, the couple lost their business. They spent a few years moving around in Florida, before going back to Atlanta for four years.

Last year, the Keys moved to Baker and decided to reopen their business. The dealership started on Main Street last September in a temporary location, but is now in a permanent location at 1676 S Ferdon Blvd, where the Nellie’s food truck used to be.

“We knew that this location was going to be ideal for drive-by traffic,” Denise said. “This kind of dealership has to be where it’s seen.”

Denise said she knows how much competition they will have, but she is not worried.

“Being a mom and pop shop gives us a more personal touch,” Denise said. “My husband is a real character, so when you’re working with him, you’ll see his silliness and his real personality.”

For more information on the business, visit http://www.crestviewcarconnection.com/

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Used car dealership brings 'miles of smiles'