Source: Go Auto
Go Auto principal Jared Priestner is taking his message beyond Canada’s borders and dealers may want to listen.
In a new episode of the Car Dealership Guy podcast, Priestner outlines why Go Auto is expanding into the United States and how the Alberta-based group is approaching growth without losing its culture. The episode is titled “Take On The Big Boys!” — Inside the Mind of a 70+ Rooftop Canadian Auto Giant Taking on the U.S.
Priestner framed the U.S. move as a deliberate test of the company’s operating discipline in a more competitive market. “It’s the big leagues of the car business. It’s like the major leagues, so to speak. And so, I think it was just time for us to kind of test our metal more than anything.”
He also emphasized that Go Auto’s growth strategy is rooted in long-term workforce development, not just store count. “If by the end of my career I can employ 10,000 people and give them good jobs with good benefits, that’s the north star for me,” said Priestner.
Large Canadian dealer groups going south signals a shift in ambition and competitive pressure. If groups like Go Auto can standardize processes, talent development and culture across borders, it raises the bar for Canadian operators at home. For mid-size stores, the takeaway may be that disciplined growth often starts with repeatable operations and a clear plan for recruiting, training and retention.
