Kelly Subaru was recognized by the Chattanooga Better Business Bureau with the prestigious Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics.
The Torch Award recognizes companies that demonstrate a commitment to conducting business in an ethical fashion.
“The award is designed to promote not only the importance of ethical business practices, but the willingness and efforts made by outstanding businesses to ensure that the marketplace remains fair and honorable for all consumers,” said BBB President Jim Winsett.
For Kelly Subaru, ethical business practices are core to its operations.
But dealing fairly is about more than a trophy on the mantle, said owner Tim Kelly, whose grandfather co-founded the BBB in Chattanooga.
“Our success as a dealership stems in no small part from our commitment to treat every customer with respect, to trade fairly with everyone and to honor our word,” Mr. Kelly said. “This award is an important recognition for every employee at Kelly Subaru who has helped us uphold that commitment.”
Lately, it’s also been about protecting customers from harm during the COVID-19 epidemic. Kelly Subaru has allowed at-risk employees to work from home, shortened working hours to allow for more cleaning and opened the sales floor by appointment only to minimize risk to customers.
“We love our customers, and we want to see them come back to us safe, healthy and happy,” Mr. Kelly said.
Mr. Kelly, who is running for mayor of Chattanooga, added that the same ethics recognized by the BBB at Kelly Subaru would be a key part of his campaign.
“Customers and voters all deserve respect, transparency and honesty,” Mr. Kelly said. “I believe this award signifies that we know how to deliver that.”