After holding a hard line for several months against reinstating any of the 789 dealers it terminated, Chrysler has in the past few days begun to offer settlements to a handful, reportedly between 50 and 100. They are publicly acknowledging that settlements are only being offered to dealers who have all three Chrysler brands: Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge. This apparently leaves Tomkinson out of consideration for a pre-hearing settlement.
In our view, this simply reinforces our belief that performance was not a real consideration in our termination. Chrysler wants Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep under one roof – plain and simple. Roughly ten years ago, Chrysler initiated and brokered the deal to establish the standalone Tomkinson Dodge franchise in its present location. Since then, they’ve clearly changed their agenda and used bankruptcy to lift the franchise. Our arbitration hearing has not yet been set, but we’re hopeful that it will occur by mid-June. Needless to say, we are going to keep fighting.
Our thanks go out to everyone for the heartfelt support so many of you have provided. To express our appreciation, Tomkinson will be hosting an open house on Saturday April 17 from 11-1 featuring a classic car show, family entertainment, complimentary snacks, and a few surprises. We’ll post updated information on Facebook and this site as the date draws closer, but please save the date and invite your friends if you will be in the Fort Wayne area. The event will take place rain or shine. (Pray for sun!)
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