Coughlin Automotive is the Official Truck Sponsor of the All American Quarter Horse Congress and has over 25 years of history with the event! The success of their London, Ohio dealership stems from years of experience. Tom Coughlin began his career in the car business in 1983 selling used cars in Columbus for Krieger Ford. By 1987, he was fortunate enough to become a partner in a central Ohio dealership. Tom built the foundation for his success here, learning every aspect of day-to-day operations in this fast-paced, ever-changing industry.
Since then, Tom has bought into and successfully operated several central Ohio dealerships with his brothers, Mike and Al. The London dealership, purchased in 1996, exemplifies this success. Tom and his expert team of professionals concentrate on the needs of their clients.
“At the end of the day, we focus on the big picture and exceeding our client’s expectations to drive long-term business relationships. We are focused on providing extraordinary customer service so that clients continue to come back to Coughlin Automotive based on their previous experiences.” says Coughlin.
There is certainly proof in this statement. With over 6,000 General Motor dealerships, Coughlin Automotive was the only dealership in the United States to have been awarded not only one, but two Mark of Excellence Awards in the same year. The proof is in the facts, as these awards are given based on customer satisfaction and customer retention. Heiner Steffan, District Sales Manager for Chevrolet of Central Ohio says, “Coughlin Auto is quite unique compared to many other dealerships. They truly deliver the highest levels of customer service through their outstanding sales and service personnel. The Coughlin Family has been instrumental to the automotive industry here in central Ohio.”
Although Tom certainly has a passion for his business, his true passion is his family. He has been married to his wife, Debbie, for 34 years. They have 3 children, Erica, Nick and Lindsey. They also have two grandchildren, Ava and Scott, as well as one on the way to be born this December. The Coughlin Family has a true love for horses and the horse industry, as well. Three generations of the Coughlin family have now achieved Congress Championships.
“I began showing horses as a kid. My oldest daughter, Erica, started showing at the ripe age of seven years old. She was very involved with 4-H and went to the Ohio State Fair Championships six times in three different disciplines. Each time she showed, she was blessed to walk away with a championship at the state level. From that point forward, I think we were hooked,” said Coughlin.
Fast-forward twenty years later and Erica’s daughter, Ava Lynn Coughlin is now dominating the show pen under the guidance of their same trainer that sparked their passion for horses back in the early 1990’s. Randy and Shelly Wilson have already coached Ava to two Congress Championships and a Reserve Congress Championship. Did we mention she is only 11 years old? Ava will be showing her new horse, Time is Lopin By, in the 11 and under western pleasure and 13 and under novice youth western pleasure this year at the All American Quarter Horse Congress.
“We are horse people and it is something my family and I have greatly enjoyed. My daughter, Lindsey, is a Reserve Youth World Champion and Congress Champion. My wife, Debbie, has been fortunate enough to win several Congress Championships and a World Championship, as well.”
While the women of the family were involved with horses, Tom’s son, Nick spent his time learning the automobile and real estate business with his father. Today, the two of them are business partners in many ventures making them quite the dynamic father-son duo. As a salesman with Coughlin Auto, Nick was awarded top honors this year as he was ranked #3 Salesman in the State of Ohio by General Motors. “I am extremely proud of Nick and his involvement with the family business. As my only son, I am so impressed by all he has accomplished in his life already. He works so hard for it! He is truly all I could have ever hoped for to carry on my name,” says Coughlin.
In addition to selling trucks and cars, Coughlin Automotive offers a wide selection of Shadow Trailers. They sell an all-aluminum quality product, which is manufactured in Ocala, Florida. The owner of Shadow Trailers, Larry Pruitt keeps on the cutting edge of the trailer industry with his innovative designs and quality products. “We firmly believe in selling quality to our clients. Shadow Trailers has been a great addition to our automotive business, as well.”
Coughlin Automotive offers amazing deals all year long, but during the All American Quarter Horse Congress, you have the opportunity to choose from over 300 units located right on the fairgrounds. “We bring over 12 million dollars of inventory to Congress with our trucks and trailers. This allows our customers to come shop our deals without having to ever leave the horse show. We are horse people selling to horse people. Ease of doing business and providing extraordinary service is our motto!”
Coughlin Automotive can be located on 17th Avenue throughout the duration of Congress. They deliver trucks and trailers all over the country from their London, Ohio based dealership. Their success is a product of a great team of dedicated employees and loyal customers. Be sure to stop by and see the Coughlin Team throughout Congress. In addition, Coughlin Automotive proudly sponsors the PBR, Coughlin 2 year Old Western Pleasure Class, The Boot and Buckeyes Gala and of course, the All American Quarter Horse Congress Queen Contest.
The Queen Committee would like to sincerely thank Tom Coughlin and Coughlin Automotive for their support of the Queen Contest. The newly crowned 2015 Congress Queen will drive off in a brand-new 2016 Chevy Cruze generously donated by Coughlin Automotive. Black in color, the car of course has PINK accents! Stop by the Queen Booth inside Congress Hall to see the car on display!
