Earnhardt recognized as second-largest family owned business in Phoenix area

The Phoenix Business Journal again recognized Earnhardt Auto Centers as second in its list of largest Phoenix-area family owned businesses. This is the second consecutive year that Earnhardt claimed this spot.

The list considers each company’s total number of full-time, local employees, and Earnhardt had 2,013 total employees when the list was published in mid-August.

Founder Tex Earnhardt started in 1951 with a Chandler-based Ford franchise, making him the youngest-ever Ford franchise dealer. Over the years, Earnhardt Auto Centers expanded and opened more dealerships, with Tex as the frontman. Tex’s straight-shooting style and famous catchphrase, “That ain’t no bull,” endeared him to generations of Arizona residents. Today, Earnhardt Auto Centers represents 16 brands at 17 locations around the Phoenix metro area.

Tex’s sons, Hal and Jim Babe, joined him in the business, and so did several of his grandchildren, making it a true family business. 

As a local, family owned business, Earnhardt Auto Centers also gives generously to the community. For example, in August Earnhardt’s Hyundai dealerships co-sponsored the Phoenix Children’s Hospital Foundation Give-A-Thon. Funds raised during the Give-A-Thon support 70-plus programs and services at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. The 2022 Give-A-Thon raised a record-breaking $2,038,532 to support Phoenix Children’s patients and their families, according to the Give-A-Thon website. Local Hyundai dealerships, including Earnhardt locations, were among several companies that supported this fundraising drive. 

In addition, several Earnhardt employees participate in No Bull Charities, where they donate via payroll deduction to different local charities each quarter. These charities have included Armed Forces Relief Trust, Paz de Cristo, Arizona Humane Society, Hospice of the Valley, United Food Bank and PACC 911, an animal rescue group. Each year, Earnhardt Auto Centers also collects and refurbishes gently used bicycles to donate to children through its 2nd Chance Bike Drive in September.

Congratulations to the team at Earnhardt Auto Centers, and thank you for your support to the local community!