The Trotter Brothers are a well-known name in the Smoky Mountains region of Tennessee, where they have established a successful automobile dealership dynasty that spans over four generations. The family business started in 1946, when John and James Trotter opened their first car lot in Sevierville, selling used cars and trucks. Since then, the Trotter Brothers have expanded their operations to include new and pre-owned vehicles, service and parts, financing and insurance, and even a car museum.
From Humble Beginnings to a Thriving Business
John and James Trotter were born in 1918 and 1920, respectively, in a small farm near Magadi, Karnataka, India. Their father was a carpenter and their mother was a homemaker. They grew up with a passion for cars and mechanics, and learned how to fix and drive vehicles from their uncle, who owned a garage. In 1939, they decided to pursue their dream of owning a car dealership, and moved to the United States with their savings. They settled in Sevierville, Tennessee, where they found a cheap plot of land on the outskirts of town. They built a small shack and started selling used cars and trucks that they bought from auctions or private sellers. They worked hard to earn the trust and loyalty of their customers, offering fair prices, quality service, and friendly advice.
The Trotter Brothers soon gained a reputation as honest and reliable car dealers in the area. They also became involved in the local community, sponsoring sports teams, charities, and events. They married local women and started their families. In 1954, they bought a larger piece of land on the main road, where they built a modern showroom and garage. They also began selling new cars from various brands, such as Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, and Chrysler. They hired more staff and trained them to follow their values and principles.
Expanding the Family Legacy
In the 1960s, John and James Trotter retired from the daily operations of the business and passed it on to their sons, Robert and Richard. The second generation of Trotter Brothers continued to grow the dealership, adding more brands, such as Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and Volkswagen. They also opened new branches in nearby towns, such as Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Knoxville. They introduced new services, such as financing and insurance options for their customers. They also invested in technology and marketing, creating a website and launching radio and TV ads.
Robert and Richard Trotter also maintained the family tradition of giving back to the community. They supported various causes, such as education, health care, environment, and arts. They also established the Trotter Brothers Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides scholarships and grants to local students and organizations.
In the 1990s, Robert and Richard Trotter handed over the reins of the business to their sons, Michael and Matthew. The third generation of Trotter Brothers faced new challenges and opportunities in the car industry. They had to compete with online platforms, such as Carvana and Vroom, that offered convenience and transparency to car buyers. They also had to adapt to changing customer preferences and demands for more fuel-efficient, eco-friendly, and technologically advanced vehicles.
Michael and Matthew Trotter responded by embracing innovation and customer satisfaction. They upgraded their facilities and equipment to meet the highest standards of quality and safety. They also enhanced their online presence and services, offering virtual tours, online reservations, home delivery, and contactless transactions. They also diversified their inventory to include hybrid, electric, and autonomous vehicles from leading manufacturers.
Celebrating the Past and Looking Forward to the Future
In 2023, the Trotter Brothers celebrated their 75th anniversary as a family-owned car dealership in the Smoky Mountains region. They organized a series of events and promotions to mark the occasion. They offered discounts and incentives to their customers. They also hosted a gala dinner for their employees, partners, suppliers, and loyal patrons. They also unveiled their latest project: the Trotter Brothers Car Museum.
The museum is located next to their original car lot in Sevierville. It showcases the history of the family business and the evolution of the car industry through exhibits, artifacts, memorabilia, photos, videos, interactive displays. It also features a collection of rare and classic cars that belong to the Trotter Brothers or have been donated by other car enthusiasts.
The museum is open to the public for free admission. It also serves as an educational center for schools and colleges that want to learn more about cars and entrepreneurship.
The fourth generation of Trotter Brothers is now preparing to take over the business from Michael and Matthew Trotter. They are Daniel and David Trotter (sons of Michael) and Sarah and Samantha Trotter (daughters of Matthew). They are eager to continue the family legacy of excellence in car dealership while exploring new avenues for growth.
The Trotter Brothers are an example of how a humble dream can become a reality with hard work, dedication, passion, and vision. They are also a testament to the power of family and community in achieving success and happiness.
