Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive order Thursday to reopen retail businesses and auto dealerships by appointment statewide. Those establishments will be allowed to start a new way of business on Tuesday, May 26, as part of her MI Safe Start plan.

As part of reopening Michigan's economy, car dealership will be allowed to service customers looking to purchase or lease a new vehicle in person. Customers must have an appointment to either enter the auto showroom or the dealership lot. The showroom will be limited to only 10 customers at one time.

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“The data shows that Michigan is ready to phase in these sectors of our economy, but we must stay vigilant and ensure we’re doing everything we can to protect ourselves and our families from the spread of COVID-19,” said Governor Whitmer. “On behalf of our brave first responders on the front lines of this crisis, we must continue to all do our part by staying safer at home. We owe it to them to do what we can to stop the spread of this virus.

The announcement comes as welcomed news to local dealerships that have be idle for business as usual for months. Shea Automotive Group in Flint has been working to find ways to provide auto service to their customers throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.  With the new order signed allowing showroom activity, they are anxious to be able work with customers once again. This is an exciting time for all of us but we are committed to our customers safety and making their experience at Shea Automotive Group easy and safe", said Stacey Shea Fields, owner of Shea Automotive Group.  We want to guide customers through the process and make their experience simple and get them back on the road.”

For those still wishing to lay low at home for now, most dealerships are offering online shopping with vehicle delivery as an option.

 

 

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