Driven by Passion
Interview with Anna Nagel, Managing Director of Auto Nagel Essen GmbH & Co. KG
Today, anyone entering the dealership of Auto Nagel Essen GmbH & Co. KG experiences modern mobility in all its facets. The growing Auto Nagel corporate group, now active nationwide, includes 18 locations and over 800 employees. Managing Director Anna Nagel continues the family tradition into the 3rd generation – grounded, yet always open to change.
The foundation of the company was laid in 1959 by Anna Nagel's grandfather, who established the first enterprise in Versmold. Her father consistently expanded the car dealership group. "Since 2015, I have been active in the third generation of the company group and have the opportunity to develop it strategically," said Anna Nagel. After a five-year stay and professional positions at arvato Bertelsmann, she brought new impulses to the family business. Today, the network of locations extends from Hannover to Munich, with additions over the past few years including businesses in Moers, Geldern, and Wolfenbüttel. All locations operate under the brand Auto Nagel but maintain their entrepreneurial independence. The group handles around 21 brands and aims for a turnover of about half a billion EUR this year.
Innovation, Sustainability, Humanity
The managing director does not see technological disruptions as a risk, but as an opportunity: "Change has always been present in our industry. What is crucial is that we remain open, courageous, and flexible." Accordingly, the range of offerings is diverse, from internal combustion engines to hybrids
up to pure electric vehicles. Sustainability is also on the agenda: All suitable dealerships are being equipped with photovoltaic systems, and both printing and energy consumption are being systematically reduced. Investments are also being made in IT structures and the development of proprietary IT solutions. Despite all the technology, people remain the focus. "Our greatest asset is our employees," says Anna Nagel. Flat hierarchies, a leadership development program, and regional employee developers promote motivation and loyalty. "I am truly proud of my colleagues – they carry our values of fairness, transparency, and team spirit outward every day." The customer experience is also consistently being advanced: In some locations, following the model of the hospitality industry, a concierge ensures a personal welcome and smooth processes. For the coming years, Auto Nagel is focusing on controlled growth in the core regions of Eastern Westphalia, Ruhr area, Lower Rhine, Hannover, and Bavaria - through acquisitions, but also through new constructions like the one opened in Essen in 2019. "We want to remain a modern, sustainable, and attractive employer and a reliable partner for our customers," emphasizes Anna Nagel and adds: "In the end, it's about actively shaping the future. This is our responsibility as a family business - and our passion."