When you shop with Glockner, you’re not just buying a car—you’re joining a tradition that stretches back over 170 years and six generations of automotive innovation, community leadership, and family values. What began in 1847 as a bicycle and hardware shop in Portsmouth, Ohio, has since grown into one of the most respected and enduring dealership groups in the country.
From Horse Traders to Automotive Pioneers
The Glockner legacy started with Bernard Glockner, a German immigrant who opened a hardware store selling bicycles. By 1891, his sons Alex, Frank, and Adolph took over the business. Then came the moment that would change everything: W.C. Durant, who would later found General Motors, offered the Glockners a Chevrolet franchise in 1912. Customers wondered what to do with their horses, so the Glockners took them as trade-ins, earning the title of the first horse traders in automotive history.
In 1919, the business split between hardware and automotive, and the family built its first dedicated dealership in Portsmouth. As the decades rolled on, so did the progress. Edward and Helen Glockner took over next, followed by Edward’s son, “Ebby,” who expanded and modernized the showroom in the late 1960s.
Growth That Spanned Generations
Ebby Glockner didn’t just run a dealership—he built an empire. Under his leadership, the Glockner Group expanded to include heavy trucks, leasing operations, and Glockner Oil Company, with operations across Ohio. His son, Andy Glockner, took the reins in 1975 and ushered in a new era. From converting a struggling Porsche/Audi store into a thriving Honda and Toyota dealership to launching Glockner Auto Credit and Rosemount City Insurance, Andy’s impact was transformational.
In recent years, the Glockner footprint has grown even larger:
• Glockner South Point Ford joined the family in 2013.
• Glockner of Ironton, home to Chevrolet, GMC, and Buick, opened in 2015.
• Glockner of Ashland, representing Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and RAM, followed in 2016.
Today, Glockner spans Portsmouth, Ironton, South Point, Waverly, Jackson, Chillicothe, and Ashland, KY, employing over 430 people and proudly supporting local communities.
The Glockner Difference
At Glockner, we believe buying a vehicle should be easy, affordable, and stress-free. That’s why we back every sale with the Glockner Guarantee:
• Over 750 vehicles in stock across 9 franchises
• Live Market Pricing for the best possible deal
• Free vehicle history reports
• Shop by Payment tools
• Fastest sales process in the business
• Employee incentives tied to your satisfaction
Whether you’re looking for trucks, SUVs, or reliable used cars, we’re the trusted name in southern Ohio and northern Kentucky.
Built on Legacy, Driven by Purpose
Our mission is simple: exceed the expectations of everyone we serve. That philosophy has earned us not only loyal customers but national recognition. In 2024, Tim Glockner was nominated for TIME Magazine’s Dealer of the Year, representing a legacy of leadership that continues to define our future.
We’re also committed to improving life in our region through the Glockner Family Foundation and by being a workplace where people thrive. We believe the success of Glockner belongs to our people—those who come through our doors to work, buy, and grow with us.
Experience the Glockner Legacy
There are plenty of car dealerships out there, but there’s only one Glockner Auto Group. We’re proud to be part of America’s automotive story and your journey ahead. Visit one of our locations today or call us at 740-351-2900 to discover the Glockner difference for yourself.
America Strong. Community Proud. Glockner Since 1847.