HOUSTON – Buckle up, folks! In an exciting ride for the automotive world, Tony Thomas has officially hit the gas and owns Tony T Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Gulfgate—making it the largest African American-owned franchise dealership in Houston!
What a way to celebrate Black History Month—by rewriting the rules of the road!
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“When I saw the sign come down, it was definitely a moment… It feels great to come to this store where probably 60 percent of the employees that were here then are here now. It felt like home,” Thomas expressed.
15 years ago, Tony Thomas started out as a sales manager at Gulfgate Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, selling cars and dreaming big. Fast forward to today, and he’s cruising into ownership! Talk about a glow-up!
“Seeing someone who looks like me… that was actually an owner—honestly, that’s what inspired me. James and Dale back in 2005… were owners at the time, and I was selling cars. When I found out that African Americans could actually own dealerships, I set my goals right then and there,” Thomas said.
Tony’s journey from Texarkana, Texas, to owning the dealership is all about hard work and determination.
“When I found out that African Americans could actually own the dealerships, I aspired to do so. I set my goals at that point in time and tried to figure out how to get to the top,” Thomas shared.
The previous owner of Gulfgate, James Davis, is thrilled to hand over the keys.
“When it came time to pass the torch, I knew I needed someone who not only understood the business but also the people and the legacy behind Gulfgate Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram. Tony Thomas was the clear choice,” Davis said.
Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Thomas isn’t just looking to park his name on the dealership; he wants to rev up the engine of change!
He’s all about empowering employees, embracing new tech, and making sure the automotive world has a seat at the table for everyone.
Did you know, according to the National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers (NAMAD), minority-owned dealerships make up only nine percent of all franchised dealerships in the U.S.? That’s like finding a needle in a haystack!
“A lot of problems you typically run into, especially for minorities, is the capital plan and capital to be able to do it,” Tony explained. “You know, a lot of times we have all the knowledge in the world… but actually learning how to operate a business is a little bit different.”
Perry Watson IV from NAMAD called Tony’s move a “historic moment for minority dealers.” It’s not just a business deal; it’s about building wealth and boosting representation in car sales.
Tony’s excited about his new role and is committed to the community.
“Kids that look like me need to see this. While some question the need for diversity programs, my story proves that when opportunity meets preparation, anything is possible,” he said.
He plans to create a dealership vibe that’s all about people—because let’s face it, nobody wants to buy a car from a robot!
And this isn’t just about one dealership. Tony’s expanding his family of dealerships, including a spot in South Carolina. “My promise is simple: to lead with integrity, passion, and commitment while building on the foundation laid before me,” he said.
So, as he steps on the gas, Thomas is on his own road to success, proving that hard work, perseverance, and a passion for excellence can take you places you never imagined.
Who knew the road to success could be this exciting?
