Like the thousands of sedans, pickups, and SUVs that have rolled
off her lot for adventures big and small, Sheila Martin will soon
say good-bye to Gilroy Chevrolet Cadillac for her own
globe-trotting adventure.
Gilroy – Like the thousands of sedans, pickups, and SUVs that have rolled off her lot for adventures big and small, Sheila Martin will soon say good-bye to Gilroy Chevrolet Cadillac for her own globe-trotting adventure.
After eight-and-a-half years in the automobile business, the dealership owner says it’s time to seize the day. Whether that’s starting another business, golfing or traveling is still up in the air, Martin said, but one thing’s for sure: She’s going to the Middle East.
“I want to retire. I want to play,” she said yesterday in her spacious office while Maisie, her 4-year-old yellow Labrador retriever, napped with her green squid stuffed-animal. “I have traveled extensively throughout the world, but I haven’t been to the Middle East.”
Martin said the American automobile industry is suffering tough times. While she said this played a role in her decision to leave the dealership, her motivation was mostly personal.
“Everybody’s sales are down now. It’s a difficult time, and it’s stressful, but this is a great location,” Martin said.
Her 50 employees gave her “hugs and tears and pats on the back” when she announced her departure.
“It was very emotional and sweet,” she said. “The employees are so loyal, and they want to stick around after I leave.”
General Motors is looking for a new owner, she said, but declined to say how much the dealership costs or how many units she has sold over the past few months.
