A Better Way to Buy a Car - Right Here in Our Community

Long before Bobby Rathbun ever stepped into a leadership role, cars were already part of his life. “I have been a car guy since I was a kid,” Rathbun said. “My dad was a car guy. I kind of got it from him.”

That early connection shaped more than a hobby—it influenced how Rathbun approaches people, work, and responsibility. While still in college, he took a job as a detailer at a local dealership, learning the business from the ground up. “As soon as I graduated, I knew what I wanted to do and that was getting into the car business.”

Those formative years gave Rathbun firsthand insight into where the automotive industry excels—and where it often falls short. Today, as the new general sales manager at Al Piemonte Lincoln under entirely new ownership, he is helping guide a cultural reset built on respect, transparency, and customer care.

At the core of his leadership philosophy is empathy, particularly for customers making a major purchase. “People's number one complaint when it comes to buying a car is the use of their time,” he said. “They think it takes too long. I want it to be very engaged, and I want it to be a quick process for them.”

Another frustration Rathbun frequently hears is the lack of clear, upfront information. To address that, Al Piemonte Lincoln provides pricing details without requiring customers to complete a credit application—a move designed to reduce pressure and build trust early in the process.

“I make it as easy as possible for the customer to get as much information as they need to make an educated buying decision,” he said.

“We don't pressure anybody here,” he added.

That customer-first mindset extends beyond the showroom and into the service department, where accountability and follow-through are essential. Customers experiencing vehicle issues can take advantage of pickup and delivery service, regardless of where they live.

“If a customer is having an issue with their vehicle, it doesn't matter where they live. We'll pick up their car and drop them off a loaner car,” Rathbun said. “We'll bring their car back for them when it’s ready.”

“Our mobile team can even handle repairs right at your doorstep,” he added. 

In one recent example, Rathbun personally assisted a customer in Punta Gorda whose new Lincoln Nautilus sustained interior damage. “The customer put a box in the back of the seat, and it scuffed the entire backing of the seat,” he shared. “I ended up going down, dropping off a car to him. We brought his car back. I replaced the back of the seat at no cost to him.”

For Rathbun, that level of service isn’t extraordinary—it’s expected. “We definitely cater to our customers,” he said.

Under new ownership, Al Piemonte Lincoln is unveiling a modernized showroom paired with digital sales tools and leadership that values time, transparency, and community. Whether test-driving a Lincoln, exploring financing, or scheduling service, Florida drivers are invited to experience a dealership where customer care comes standard.