Press Release : January 2025

Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson and Crown Automotive Group Announce Merger

Maryville, TN

Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson, a leader in the motorcycle industry, is excited to announce its merger with Crown Automotive Group, a prestigious name in the automotive world. This merger marks a significant milestone, bringing together two powerhouse companies with a shared vision for growth and excellence.

About Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson:

Since its founding in 2004, Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson has set new standards in the Harley-Davidson motorcycle industry. With a clear and simple vision to exceed riders' expectations, Smoky Mountain H-D has expanded to seven locations, set Guinness World Records, and received numerous Bar & Shield recognitions. The company has hosted state, regional, and national HOG rallies, Annual Bike Week, and established a renowned restaurant and music venue that draws visitors from around the globe.

About Crown Automotive Group:

Crown Automotive Group, founded on April 1, 1969, by Dwayne Hawkins, is driven by its core values of Customer Focus, Teamwork, Integrity, and Growth. With over 50 years in the automotive industry, Crown Automotive Group is a privately owned, award-winning dealership group with operations in Florida, Ohio, and Tennessee. Crown Automotive Group features 22 dealerships, 40 brands, and 1,233 employees, maintaining a 4.7 average Google rating. The group continues to expand, offering a vast selection of new, certified, and meticulously inspected pre-owned vehicles with financing options for every budget. Crown Automotive Group has been named a Top Workplace by the Tampa Bay Times for four consecutive years.

Merger Highlights:

Shared Vision for Growth: Both companies are committed to advancing operations and opportunities, leveraging their industry expertise and operational strengths.
Enhanced Customer Experience: By combining their resources and reputations, the merged entity will provide an exceptional range of products, services, and experiences for customers.
Focus on Community: The partnership aims to inspire and energize communities, creating a positive impact and fostering enthusiasm among customers.

Statement from Scott Maddux, Founder of Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson:

"As I reflect on our history, I am proud of our accomplishments. However, we cannot rest on our achievements. It is now time to take our next step, expand the vision, and set our sights on the next 5, 10, and 20 years of growth and development. For the past three years, I have been working with Crown Automotive Group’s leadership team, founded by my wife’s uncle Dwayne Hawkins, to compare industries, operational strengths, weaknesses, and future opportunities. As a result, I am thrilled to announce our new partnership with Crown Smoky Mountain. I am totally committed to making this partnership a great one in which both Crown Automotive Group and Smoky Mountain Motor Company can leverage our industry operating histories, reputations, industry experience, and operational and experiential know-how to advance our operations and opportunities going forward."