Forty years in business is no small feat, especially in an industry that is constantly changing. But for Dwayne Blackmon Chevrolet, that longevity is a testament to the family leadership, community roots and people-first philosophy that has guided the dealership since 1985.
The dealership’s journey began in November of that year, when Dwayne’s father, Frankie, decided to purchase Frankie Blackmon Chevrolet in Tupelo, Mississippi. At the time, the store operated as a Chevrolet and Mercedes-Benz dealership, and when Dwayne joined the business just a few months later in January 1986, the dealership solidified its commitment to leadership excellence. With Dwayne’s experience in banking as a foundation, he excelled as the store’s F&I manager for over 10 years.
When Dwayne’s father purchased another dealership in town and named Dwayne as the general manager of the Chevrolet dealership, his experience made it an easy transition. His father continued to expand into different franchises, including Oldsmobile, Buick, GMC, Hyundai, Isuzu, Yugo and Mazda, while Dwayne remained a steady constant at the Chevrolet store.
In 2010, leadership of the dealership officially passed to the next generation when Dwayne’s father retired. Since then, Dwayne has continued to guide the business under the new name of Dwayne Blackmon Chevrolet with the same values that shaped its early years: integrity, adaptability and respect for customers and employees alike. Today, the third generation of the Blackmon family is already learning the business. Dwayne’s son began working at the dealership at age 15, washing cars and gradually rotating through departments including service, body shop, sales and business development. He now helps manage the sales department, continuing the legacy of a family-owned and operated dealership.
“Business operations, over the years, have changed the way people buy cars, but the actual business has not changed,” Dwayne explained. “It’s still a people business. You have to treat people the right way and do business the right way.”
That philosophy has helped Dwayne Blackmon Chevrolet navigate major industry shifts, from the rise of online vehicle shopping to evolving customer expectations. While they have had to shift their priorities to give their online showroom just as much attention as their dealership floor, the core of their operation remains focused on personal service and long-term relationships — something that has led to a strong base of repeat customers.
Over the years, Dwayne Blackmon Chevrolet has been a consistent supporter of local organizations, youth sports teams and charitable causes. From sponsoring Little League teams and road races to supporting New Beginnings Adoptions Agency and Regional Rehabilitation Center, the dealership has made sure to support the community that has given so much to it.
“Tupelo has been really supportive of us,” Dwayne said. “And we always like to give back to them.”
That community connection was on full display in November of last year, when the dealership celebrated its 40th anniversary with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Community Development Foundation. The event brought together customers, business partners, vendors and community leaders to recognize the milestone and the dealership’s lasting impact.
As part of the celebration, Dwayne Blackmon Chevrolet was honored to raise $1,500 in support of the F.A.C.E. Program, which serves students, parents and teachers by creating greater growth opportunities and a more connected educational journey.
As Dwayne Blackmon Chevrolet looks ahead, the focus remains on adapting to change while staying true to the values that have sustained the business for 40 years. With deep roots in Tupelo, a strong family foundation and a clear commitment to treating people right, the dealership is celebrating its past while confidently driving toward its future.
