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Lakewood Breaks Ground on New VanDerZee Sales & Leasing Facility
Phoenix Road in South Haven, Michigan was the setting for the groundbreaking of a new facility for VanDerZee Sales & Leasing. The VanDerZee family has been a long time presence in South Haven, which began in 1957 when Ed VanDerZee opened South Haven Auto Sales selling Pontiacs and International Trucks. Ed’s son, Ray VanDerZee and his wife Linda, have operated VanDerZee Sales & Leasing since 1991. The company currently sells pre-owned cars and trucks, Kawasaki motorcycles, Jet Ski watercraft, all terrain vehicles, and utility vehicles, along with parts, service, and American Auto Rental. Additional product lines are also planned.
The dealership sought increased space and the Phoenix Road corridor was chosen for its visibility, ease of access and room for display. The new facility, to be called VanDerZee Motorplex, will be situated on 2.5 acres adjacent to Comfort Suites Hotel. The nearly 10,000 square foot facility and adjoining display space will allow the dealership to dramatically expand auto and Kawasaki inventories.
Taking it’s form from a 1950’s diner, the pre-engineered steel structure will take on an “art-deco” look, using plenty of glass block, and fifties era color schemes. The 1950’s theme will be carried throughout the building with local memorabilia from South Haven businesses, the focal point will be a soda fountain originally used in the local MacDonalds Drug Store. A unique feature will be a lack of formal offices or closing booths. “Our clients will conduct business sitting in an authentic 1950’s style restaurant booth!” stated Linda VanDerZee. “You’ll even be able to get a 10 cent Coca Cola or a 5 cent cup of coffee!!” The diner theme will carry over to the exterior features in color and style as well.
Other features will include increased showroom space, an expanded service department, children’s play area, retail parts store, vast accessory area featuring bolt-on accessories, designer clothing and riding gear. “VanDerZee Motorplex, with it’s unique 50’s theme, will become a destination store among power sports and auto buyers,” according to Ray VanDerZee. “Our goal is to serve our clients in an atmosphere that not only displays our products in an entertaining, unique 1950’s décor, but allows us to offer amenities that will exceed clients expectations.”
Lakewood Inc. of Holland, Michigan is the Design/Build contractor for the project. VanDerZee Motorplex’s new facility promises to be an exciting addition to South Haven’s growing retail corridor, Phoenix Road near I-196.
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