Pub. 2 2021-2022 Issue 2

You come from a car family, so the automotive industry would have been the obvious career choice. And so would taking over the family business, but you chose to strike out on your own in 1992. Tell us about that. Well, I think first and foremost, after working in the family business for a number of years, striking out on my own was a natural progression. My two brothers and I still own Tropical Chevrolet in Miami Shores here in Florida, on the same site as the original family dealership. In January 1992, I found a store that my father bought for me. He put me in business, and he has been my single biggest mentor, teacher and influencer. I still talk to my father every day about the business, and his insights have been invaluable. My business has grown by acquisition. In retrospect, I did the unusual. I reached out to competitors. I invited them to lunch. Some were reluctant, but I let them know I wanted to be a good industry partner. I made friends with my competitors, which I think makes a great deal of sense. We’re all in the same industry. Because of those relationships — based on mutual respect and, in many cases, genuine friendship — I usually had the first offer to buy when someone retired or wanted out of the industry. Our business strategy is community involvement: Giving back. I think our growth has been the dividend of that approach. There’s sound economics in being entrenched in the community in which you do business. Describe your educational background. What did you study? I have a B.A. from Northwood University of Midland, Michigan, in Automotive Marketing and Management. It’s one of the few places where you get real knowledge of the auto industry in higher education. Are there any specific individuals who had a major impact on your career? My father, Larry Wildstein. He is passionate about this business; I couldn’t have asked for a better mentor. GETTING TO KNOW ALAN WILDSTEIN of Alan Jay Automotive Network 8 Pub Yr 2 | Issue 2