Alabama’s biggest automotive group celebrating a return to its roots

Alabama’s largest automotive group is coming home. Long-Lewis Automotive Group has officially opened its doors in Bessemer, marking a sentimental return to the city where the company first laid its roots nearly 140 years ago.

A Historic Homecoming

Long-Lewis Chevrolet, located at 4990 Premiere Parkway, represents more than just a new dealership. The location was established following the company's acquisition of Step One Chevrolet earlier this year.

"This is a truly special moment for our organization," said CEO Todd Ouellette. "Bessemer is where Long-Lewis began nearly 140 years ago, and returning here after 27 years is both meaningful and exciting. This isn’t just an acquisition — it’s a homecoming."

From Hardware to Horsepower

While the brand is now synonymous with the automotive industry, its origins date back to 1887 as a hardware store in Bessemer. The company’s trajectory changed alongside the automotive revolution when Henry Ford began granting franchises; Long-Lewis Hardware was among the very first to secure one. Before long, the company was operating its own dedicated Ford division out of a two-story building.

The original hardware store remained in Bessemer until its closure in 1982. Following a move to Hoover in the 1990s, the company has continued to expand its footprint across the state.

Expanding the Footprint

Today, Long-Lewis Automotive Group maintains a significant presence across Alabama. Beyond its return to Bessemer, the company operates dealerships in Hoover, Cullman, Alabaster, Prattville, and several locations throughout the Shoals. You can read the original report on this expansion via 205focus.com.