Rev it Up

Walker Ford, like many other auto dealers nationwide, took a big sales dip in the recession.

But the family-run dealership, on U.S. 19 North in Clearwater, is now into rebound mode despite a ream of obstacles, from high unemployment to a construction quagmire that clogs its entrance. The firm, founded in 1957, reported $62.65 million in 2010 revenues, a 33.1% jump over 2009 revenues of $47.08 million. Sales were more than $100 million a year as recently as 2006.

The bounce back stems from a combination of factors, Walker Ford executives say. And Walker Ford isn't an aberration when it comes to Gulf Coast auto dealerships that had a strong 2010. Others that posted big gains include Sarasota-based Gettel Automotive, which was up 32%, and Johan Marazzi Nissan in Naples, which was up 28.8%.