Mercedes-Benz of Flagstaff is elevating the luxury automotive experience in Northern Arizona with the groundbreaking of its brand-new, state-of-the-art facility. Living up to the Mercedes-Benz motto, “The Best or Nothing,” this expansion signifies the dealership’s commitment to providing an unparalleled, customer-focused experience right in Flagstaff. Driven by rapid growth and a desire to better serve its clientele, Mercedes-Benz of Flagstaff is investing in a cutting-edge space designed to redefine the luxury car buying and service journey.
“At our current location, we’ve simply outgrown our ability to deliver the true Mercedes-Benz concierge experience our customers deserve,” explained Trampus Mansker, owner of Mercedes-Benz of Flagstaff. The current Switzer Canyon Drive location, while experiencing good traffic, no longer accommodates the dealership’s expanding needs. “We need to expand our team, but space is limited. This new facility marks a fresh start, allowing us to fully embrace and deliver the Mercedes-Benz standard,” Mansker added. The groundbreaking ceremony, held in late July, drew a crowd of around 40 attendees, including Mercedes-Benz of Flagstaff executives, city officials, representatives from the Flagstaff Mall, the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce, Northern Arizona Healthcare, and project contractors and suppliers. The new dealership is strategically located in the Flagstaff Auto Park, at the southwest corner of Marketplace Drive and Test Drive, behind the Flagstaff Mall.
Principal owner Michael Martin addressed the gathering, expressing gratitude and enthusiasm: “We are dedicated to establishing the Mercedes-Benz brand in Flagstaff in a manner that truly reflects its prestige. Thank you for your patience and support as we’ve grown.” He continued, “Trampus, myself, and the entire Mercedes-Benz of Flagstaff team are incredibly excited to see this project come to fruition. It’s truly a dream come true.” Even prior to the formal groundbreaking, site preparation was already underway, with excavation and groundwork commencing two weeks prior. Heavy machinery was active on the site as guests arrived, demonstrating the swift progress of the project.
Martin also highlighted the selection of local Flagstaff-based Loven Contracting as the general contractor, praising their expertise. “Working with Mike Loven and his team has been exceptional,” Martin stated. Loven Contracting president Mike Loven, present at the groundbreaking, confirmed the strong local involvement in the project. “Eighty percent of our subcontractors are based right here in Flagstaff,” Loven noted, mentioning local firms such as The WLB Group for civil engineering, Dial Mechanical Company, Ignace Brothers Drywall, and Block-lite. The architectural design for the new Mercedes-Benz of Flagstaff facility is being handled by a California-based architect specializing in automotive dealerships, ensuring a modern and functional space tailored to the Mercedes-Benz brand.
The decision to expand reflects the robust luxury market in Flagstaff and the dealership’s commitment to serving local customers. “There is a significant demand for luxury vehicles in this area,” Martin explained. “We aim to eliminate the need for our customers to travel to Phoenix or Las Vegas for a premium Mercedes-Benz experience.” Mercedes-Benz, globally recognized for its superior engineering, elegant design, and advanced technology, holds a prominent position in the luxury automotive sector. Mercedes-Benz of Flagstaff General Sales Manager Greg Ring emphasized the practical benefits of the brand, particularly for business owners. “Our vans offer unmatched hauling capacity compared to competitors,” Ring pointed out. “Furthermore, all Mercedes-Benz vehicles are excellent for business, providing both luxury and attractive tax advantages, particularly through Section 179 of the federal tax code. We are also unique in offering a four-wheel drive van option, boasting greater cargo space than any other vehicle in its class.”
Julie Pastrick, CEO of the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce and a recent Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV 350 purchaser from the Flagstaff dealership, also attended the groundbreaking. “I chose Mercedes-Benz after experiencing repeated recalls with my previous vehicle from another manufacturer,” Pastrick shared. “And having known Trampus and his family for many years, I was confident in their dealership.” Sales Manager Jimmy Halbison highlighted the strategic advantage of the new location within the Flagstaff Auto Park. “While our current location on Switzer benefits from hospital traffic, the Auto Park is undoubtedly the prime location for automotive retail in Flagstaff,” Halbison stated from the construction site.
Mercedes-Benz of Flagstaff provides a comprehensive suite of automotive services, including new and used vehicle sales, expert service, leasing options, genuine Mercedes-Benz parts, and financing solutions. The new facility is slated to open by March 15, promising a significantly enhanced Mercedes-Benz experience for Flagstaff and surrounding communities.
