From highs and lows of the economy to the forefront of automotive evolution, Massullo Motors is celebrating a 40-year legacy of community commitment.
“There have been periods with immense challenges,” explains general manager Corinne Franklin. “Our commitment to servicing essential workers kept us going, even when supply chain woes left us with a sparse selection of vehicles.”
Massullo Motors has also evolved with the times, embracing technology and innovation.
“We’ve become an EV Bolt dealer and have invested in the training and tools necessary to offer top-notch service,” adds Corinne.
This commitment to excellence extends beyond the lot at 4493 Joyce Avenue in Powell River, with the dealership actively supporting local charities and teams, including pivotal contributions to health care and sports initiatives.
The dealership’s ethos of community extends to its customer service philosophy, offering personalized solutions for vehicle buying and a commitment to meet the needs of every client who walks through the doors.
The Massullo/Franklin family takes great pride in the loyalty of its staff members, many of whom have retired after years of service, and the strong bonds forged through social events that have become a cherished part of the company’s culture.
“Our staff, past and present, are more than just employees; they’re family,” says Corinne.
As Massullo Motors looks to the future, gratitude for customers, old and new, remains at the forefront.
“We’re honoured to have served generations of families and are excited to welcome new customers to the Massullo family,” she adds.
Although the past 40 years have brought times of economic upheaval and changing interest rates, Massullo Motors has stayed committed to community, innovation and unparalleled service.
In 1983, when interest rates skyrocketed to a staggering 22 per cent, causing turmoil in the auto industry, Felix Massullo, Corinne’s father and dealer operator since 1983, transitioned his staff from Villa Esso, a former business, to the dealership, amalgamating with the team from the recently closed Bob Scott Motors. His formula for success was simple yet profound: A deep appreciation for his employees and loyal customers, and the unyielding support of his wife, Annette.
Fast forward to 1994, the legacy continued with Scott Franklin, Felix’s son-in-law, joining the ranks as a sales consultant after meeting his wife-to-be Corinne at the Canadian Automotive Institute. With their roots firmly planted in Powell River, the couple became integral to the dealership’s fabric.
The turn of the century saw Duane, Felix’s son, imbue the business with his multifaceted skills, balancing his responsibilities at the dealership with his passion for prawn fishing. His current dual role as property manager and service writer mirrors the family’s versatile engagement with the business and community.
In 2018, a new chapter unfolded as Corinne stepped into the role of general manager, channelling her family’s spirit and aspirations into every facet of the dealership’s operations, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. She thanks the following employees for their continued commitment to the company, who have joined the team over the past 40 years:
Technicians Rob Mayenburg (1986), Troy Lawson (2007), Danny Carto (2021) and Bruno Rubboli (1987), who is retiring this year; Controller Maryl Foster (1987); Parts manager Chris Cecconi (2003): Service manager Travis Lingard (2004); Chelsea Harris, Marketing (2018); Parts consultant/tire specialist Brendan Wruth (2018); Fourth year apprentice technician Russell Pielle (2020); Service writer Dakota Budgell (2022); Auto porter Matt Wilson (2022); Detailers Dreyden Harris and Marick Harris (2023); and third year apprentice technician Chance Rivest (2023).
For further information or enquiries about Massullo Motors’ offerings, reach out to Scott, who is now sales manager or John Harris a sales consultant since 2018, where the legacy of service and community continues to drive forward, by phone at 604.485.7981 or online at massullomotors.com/contact.
