New Fresard dealership opens in Ferndale

FERNDALE –
With brass music, an honor guard and a bevy of community leaders on hand, Fresard Buick, Pontiac, GMC heralded the grand opening of their new 22,000 square foot dealership. Located on Woodward north of 8 Mile Rd., the new facility is the first of two major buildings that Fresard is constructing.
"We are combining our operations, which are now spread out in seven different buildings in Royal Oak, into two major structures here in Ferndale," said owner Doug Fresard. "We've broken ground on the second building right next door and it will be opening in 2008."
Ferndale Mayor Robert Porter welcomed the new business to town, saying, "This is tremendous for Ferndale. We've got a new business that adds a crown jewel to Woodward and they are committed to the community."
The new dealership has a number of amenities to entice customers including leather massage chairs, shoe-shine services, a deli counter, and a fireplace. The showroom also has free wireless Internet access, big-screen plasma TVs and a barber shop.
"It's kind of like Starbucks on steroids," Fresard said. "We wanted to make this a welcoming, comfortable place just to stop in. We cater to people, and while they are here they can check out what's new in the car business."
The Dec. 20 ceremony included a flag-raising by the Ferndale Police Honor Guard, while trumpeter Gordon Simmons performed "The Star-Spangled Banner."
The dealership officially opens to the public on Jan. 17.