Entrepreneur of the Week: David Franck

Every year, Oak Harbor DECA and Rotary Club host the annual Entrepreneurship Banquet. This banquet honors three outstanding entrepreneurs from the Oak Harbor community based on their dedication, innovation, perservence, and contributions to the local community.

This year, the following Entrepreneurs were selected as the 2015 Outstanding Entrepreneurs: Tom DuPont from Adflim Inc., David Franck from Tri Motor Sales, Inc. and Sandy Konieczny from Kozy Korners. Each member of the chapter was required to interview a local entrepreneur and ask them various questions about their journey to success and advice on how to be successful in the business world.

David Franck from Tri Motor Sales, Inc is our first entrepreneur to be featured on this website. Read his biography below!

In 1931, Tri Motor Sales, Inc. was founded by Cy Franck, Oscar Herring, and Chet Young. As the Great Depression took a toll on the economy, Cy Franck eventually bought out the other two partners. Cy Franck was the grandfather of David Franck who now owns and operates Tri Motors Sales. The business has been a part of the Franck family for 84 years.

David Franck attended Bowling Green State University and obtained a degree in Business Administration and Marketing Specialization. After graduating from Bowling Green, Mr. Franck went straight back to Tri Motors to work with his father, Bob Franck. It was Mr. Franck’s childhood dream to work at the dealership, and in 2007, Mr. Franck became the official owner of Tri Motor Sales.

Over the years, the auto industry has experienced significant changes due to technology. Many daily tasks can now be completed on a computer, which makes it easier to contact customers, obtain loan approvals, complete paperwork, and showcase vehicles online. Customers are able to shop online and are much more informed before they come in to the dealership.

The outlook for those interested in this field is bright. The economy has improved, helping to turn around the industry. Unlike when the business first started, most families today purchase multiple vehicles. Tri Motors has been an important part of Oak Harbor, helping customers and serving the community for 84 years.

Mr. Franck has seen the many advantages and rewards of being a successful entrepreneur. For any future entrepreneur, he gives this advice: "Gain as much experience as you can by working for someone that is already an entrepreneur. Learn as much as you can while you are young and try to discover the keys to a successful business." Mr. Franck is continuing the legacy of his grandfather’s business in Ottawa County, and is honored to be serving generations of customers who have given continuous support to the business.