Missouri Store Debuts Fresh Ford Experience

Clement Auto Group in Wentzville, Mo., held a grand opening Nov. 21 for the first Ford dealership to feature the company’s Signature 2.0 customer-experience design.

The new design represents a $45 million investment in the new Clement Ford showroom, which replaces an older facility that’s been transformed into a service center. The design will eventually be incorporated nationwide at all 2,000-plus Ford dealerships. It’s a hospitality-first retail approach, said Ford, meant to create “a more welcoming, 5-star guest experience in all areas of the dealership.” 

“It is the nicest Ford facility to-date in the world,” said Rob Kaffl, Ford executive director U.S. sales, market representation and dealer relations.

Clement Auto Group is owned by Penuel “Raj” Clement – the only first-generation owner to build a new dealership group in the Greater St. Louis area from the ground up, according to the group.

“Clement Ford has moved beyond the traditional dealership experience and now represents the future of the Ford brand,” said Clement.

A Cox Automotive study showed that younger customers are seeking more convenience, personalization and stress reduction in the car-buying process. The new dealership design aims to be hassle-free to “meet today’s customer retail preferences,” Ford said. 

In the showroom, customers will find a lounge, power stations, a fireplace and a coffee/snack bar. Those who prefer to start the car-buying process online can research, build and price their purchases on the dealership’s website. They can then either visit the dealership to finalize their purchases or complete them online.