Thirty years is a long run for any business, let alone one in the motor trade where the landscape has changed almost beyond recognition. For The Car Company, it marks a steady build of trust, repeat customers, and a business that’s grown alongside the region.
It all began in 1996 when current Managing Director Shane Drummond purchased a small yard at 8 Nile Street. Already working in the industry, he saw an opportunity to step out on his own and do things differently. From that moment The Car Company steadily laid the foundations for what would become one of the region’s most established motor dealerships. The business quickly started to take shape and thirty years later, The Car Company has grown with multiple sites, a team of more than 20 staff and a reputation that extends well beyond our region.
While much has changed in the industry, and the business expanded significantly, one aspect has remained the same. From the beginning, Shane made the decision to own every vehicle outright rather than relying on borrowed money. It was a defining choice and one that has given the business a level of stability and leverage to navigate the changing economic landscape while continuing to invest in growth opportunities and new vehicle brands.
Just as important as the business model, however, is the people behind it. The Car Company has built a workplace defined by long hours, hard work and a shared sense of pride, but also genuine enjoyment in what they do. Staff retention has been a significant part of the company's success, with many team members having spent more than a decade with the business. Ben Brownie joined the team in 2004 as part owner of the Richmond branch, before buying in and being appointed General Manager of the business in 2024.
When asked what sets the business apart as a place where people build long-term careers, Ben points to the culture of opportunity and flexibility within the organisation. “Our company has no set in stone corporate structures or limits to how far our staff can go within the company. If you are driven and passionate about what you do, then you get the opportunity to succeed or grow into different roles within the company. Due to our ownership/management structure, we can pivot and move quickly towards new trends which suit our region and country.”
The company's longevity has also been built on trusted relationships. Many customers have returned time and time again, with families purchasing multiple vehicles over several generations. “We treat people with the level of service and respect in which we would like to receive when doing business,” says Ben. “For The Car Company to have as much repeat business, says a lot about the team. It means that we are doing a great job, it's nice to see.”
Behind the showroom floors sits another key part of the operation – a purpose-built, modern workshop that has become one of the busiest in Nelson. Equipped with up-to-date technology and designed specifically for the scale of the business, it plays a crucial role in keeping the entire group moving efficiently. The Car Company has never been afraid of embracing change and in recent years, that has included new car brokerage, on-site vehicle finance and becoming a leading retailer of BYD vehicles, helping introduce many New Zealanders to electric and super hybrid motoring. “The public response has been significant with the business recently seeing a 400% increase in enquiries as more people explored their options.”
The dealership’s commitment to the brand was recognised on the global stage when the BYD Nelson showroom was awarded the prestigious Sales Benchmark Store Award at the international BYD dealer summit in Shenzhen, China, with Shane travelling to receive the honour this year.
As an industry leader, The Car Company remains committed to supporting the community. Over the years, the business has contributed more than $150,000 to Whakatū Women's Refuge, alongside ongoing support for organisations including Nelson Bowls, Tasman Rugby, Victory Boxing, cricket, basketball and a range of other local initiatives.
“Relationships, Local, and Growth are three things that have always been important to me,” says Shane. “Being able to support incredible organisations like Whakatū Refuge, help local businesses grow, and contribute to the success of our community gives real meaning to what we do.” Ben adds that giving back is simply part of being a local business. “Giving back to the community who supports us means that we can help improve and make our region a better place for generations to come.”
When asked what stands out most when looking back, Shane doesn’t hesitate. “After all these years, I still find myself checking carparks to see The Car Company plates. I’m still just as passionate about it as day one.” That sense of pride remains firmly intact and is backed by a team that works hard, enjoys what they do.
The Car Company is celebrating their milestone with a birthday sale across all branches. “Every car, at every branch, over 400 cars on sale!” It’s a fitting way to mark 30 years, focused on the same principle that has guided the business from the start,” says Ben. "We make it easy.”
Browse the sale now!