Huntersville, North Carolina – Three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Joey Logano has added another dimension to his already successful career, becoming an operating partner at Huntersville Ford. The announcement, made earlier this month, signifies a deepening of Logano’s relationship with the Ford brand and a strategic investment in his hometown community.
The move, finalized on , sees Logano collaborating with Stacy Cowen, the dealership’s general manager and operating within the Krause Auto Group. While Logano’s primary focus remains on his racing career with Team Penske, his involvement is expected to be hands-on, leveraging his established connections and business acumen.
“As a race car driver, you have an unfair advantage in business because I’m able to pretty much connect with anyone I want to connect with, which is a great tool to have,” Logano stated. He envisions building upon the existing success of Huntersville Ford, aiming to enhance the dealership’s presence in the region. “The goal here is to take what Huntersville Ford already is in the Krause Auto Group, that’s grown an incredible business, and try to add a little bit more to it.”
Logano’s connection to Huntersville Ford extends beyond a simple business transaction. Over the years, he has fostered a strong relationship with the dealership, utilizing their vehicles for promotional events and partnering on charitable initiatives through the Joey Logano Foundation. This long-standing rapport played a key role in his decision to invest in the local business.
The investment comes as Logano continues to compete at the highest level of NASCAR, driving Ford Mustangs for Team Penske. His success on the track – boasting three Cup Series championships – has undoubtedly contributed to his brand recognition and opened doors for business opportunities. This venture into automotive retail represents a calculated diversification strategy, allowing him to leverage his personal brand and industry relationships.
Logano acknowledged the learning curve associated with entering the dealership business, stating he spent the past year educating himself on the retail industry. He recognizes his expertise lies in racing, not dealership operations, but believes he can bring significant value to the table. “I’m not going to go in there and completely change the place and tell everyone how to do everything, but use me as a little bit of fuel that can be on the fire that’s already there,” he explained.
The partnership is seen as mutually beneficial. Huntersville Ford, already a reputable dealership within the Krause Auto Group, gains the association with a high-profile NASCAR champion. Logano, in turn, gains a stake in a thriving business and an opportunity to further integrate himself into the local community. The dealership’s strong reputation, built under the Krause Auto Group, provides a solid foundation for Logano’s involvement.
Logano’s “unfair advantage,” as he calls it, stems from his ability to connect with a wide range of individuals. He believes this skill will be invaluable in fostering relationships with customers and partners, ultimately contributing to the dealership’s continued success. His knowledge of Ford’s product line, gained through his racing experience, will also be an asset.
Beyond the business implications, Logano’s investment underscores his commitment to Huntersville, North Carolina. Choosing to invest in his hometown reflects his desire to give back to the community that has supported him throughout his career. This move aligns with his established reputation as both an accomplished racer and a dedicated community figure.
While navigating his new role as a dealership owner, Logano remains focused on his racing commitments. The NASCAR season is currently underway, and he continues to compete for wins and championships. Balancing his racing schedule with his business responsibilities will undoubtedly be a challenge, but Logano appears well-equipped to handle both.
The acquisition of an ownership stake in Huntersville Ford marks a significant milestone in Logano’s career, demonstrating his ambition and entrepreneurial spirit. It’s a move that extends beyond the racetrack, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in both the world of motorsports and the local business community. The $24 million valued driver is clearly looking to the future, and this investment is a key part of that plan.
The partnership between Logano and Huntersville Ford is rooted in a history of collaboration, with the dealership frequently providing vehicles for marketing events and joint giveaways. This existing relationship provides a strong foundation for future success, and Logano’s involvement is expected to further enhance the dealership’s presence in the region. As Logano himself stated, the aim is not to overhaul the existing operation, but to build upon its strengths and add value where possible.
