Capitol Nissan of Salem has earned the top spot on Automotive News’ 2025 “Best Dealerships to Work For” list, a prestigious recognition that celebrates excellence in workplace culture, employee satisfaction, and community engagement.
In a year marked by industry transformation and evolving consumer expectations, Capitol Nissan of Salem stood out as a beacon of innovation and integrity. The dealership was honored during a celebratory event held at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville on October 9, 2025, where Heather Krieves accepted the award on behalf of the team.
A Culture of Empowerment and Excellence
What makes Capitol Nissan of Salem exceptional isn’t just its sales figures or service ratings—it’s the culture. Employees describe the dealership as a place where they feel valued, heard, and empowered to grow. From entry-level staff to senior management, the emphasis is on collaboration, transparency, and mutual respect.
The dealership’s leadership team has cultivated an environment where innovation is encouraged and personal development is prioritized. Regular training sessions, mentorship programs, and open-door policies have created a workplace that attracts top talent and retains it.
Rising from Adversity
Capitol Nissan’s journey to the top wasn’t without challenges. In January 2024, a devastating fire destroyed Salem’s previous Nissan dealership on Market Street. Capitol Auto Group stepped in, acquiring the franchise and launching Capitol Nissan of Salem in August 2024 at a new location on Cherry Avenue NESalem Area Chamber of Commerce.
This bold move not only restored Nissan’s presence in the region but also infused the dealership with fresh energy and purpose. The new facility, housed in the former Capitol Subaru building, was redesigned to reflect Capitol Auto Group’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Employee-Centric Initiatives
Capitol Nissan’s success is deeply rooted in its employee-first philosophy. Some of the standout initiatives include:
- Flexible scheduling and wellness programs, promoting work-life balance.
- Performance-based incentives and recognition programs, celebrating achievements across departments.
- Community involvement opportunities, allowing staff to participate in local events and charitable causes.
These efforts have resulted in high employee retention rates and glowing internal reviews, which played a key role in securing the top spot on Automotive News’ list.
Customer Experience That Reflects Internal Values
The dealership’s internal culture directly influences its customer experience. Visitors to Capitol Nissan often remark on the friendly atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and seamless service. Whether purchasing a new vehicle or coming in for maintenance, customers are treated with the same respect and care that employees enjoy behind the scenes.
This alignment between internal values and external service has helped Capitol Nissan build a loyal customer base and a strong reputation in the Salem community.
A Model for the Industry
Capitol Nissan of Salem’s recognition by Automotive News isn’t just a win for the dealership—it’s a model for the industry. As automotive retail faces increasing pressure to adapt to digital trends and shifting consumer behaviors, Capitol Nissan proves that investing in people is the most sustainable strategy.
By fostering a workplace where employees thrive, the dealership has created a ripple effect that benefits customers, partners, and the broader community.
Looking Ahead
With this award under its belt, Capitol Nissan of Salem is poised for continued success. The dealership plans to expand its service offerings, enhance its digital platforms, and deepen its community engagement in the coming year.
As the automotive world evolves, Capitol Nissan remains committed to its core values: integrity, excellence, and people-first leadership.
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