Ever since he was old enough to walk, Miles Thompson of Thompson Sales has been
immersed in the family business. From playing around the old dealership on 727 Saint
Louis Street to working at their current location on Independence, the connection has
been lifelong. "My first job started when I was around 15," he recalls. "I was cleaning
new cars for customers and salespeople. I felt a lot of pride polishing Pontiacs and
Cadillacs."
As a family business passed through five generations, the roles of family members have
shifted over time. Lynn Thompson, the third-generation president and dealer, played a pivotal role in shaping the dealership's direction. Now, as the fourth-generation president, Miles Thompson continues to carry that torch, maintaining the values that have guided the business for over a century. "Whether you're cleaning vehicles or
serving as the president, everyone has a major role in our success,” he says. "We strive
to make our team members and customers feel like part of the Thompson family."
The dealership has flourished for over a century, an achievement built on creating an
environment where every employee, regardless of their role, contributes to the legacy.
"It’s not about hierarchy; it’s about commitment," he continues. "Every single person
here plays a part in providing an excellent customer experience."
At Thompson Sales, teamwork is vital. The dealership employs around 130 people,
many of whom have been with the company for decades. "We’re a family at work," he
explains. "Sometimes we spend more time together than with our families at home, and
that brings challenges." Recognizing the balance between work and home life is
essential. "I make it a priority to acknowledge that my employees have families to care
for. Family comes first."
The importance of communication is key, especially when navigating disagreements
within a family-run business. "We’ve had as many as 11-12 family members working
here at one time," he says. "Of course, disagreements happen, but we work out
solutions that benefit our customers and the dealership."
One of the foundational reasons for the dealership’s success is its unwavering core
values: respect, loyalty, integrity, trust, and sustainability. "We value every contribution
from every family member and employee," he says. "Loyalty to the business, the family,
and our customers is non-negotiable. This commitment to integrity and leadership
extends beyond the dealership itself.
This year, he serves as the Chairman of the Missouri Automobile Dealers
Association (MADA), a role that allows him to further advocate for the values that
have sustained his business. His leadership reflects a deep responsibility not only to
his family and employees but also to the broader automotive community. " Integrity in
both sales and service has built trust over generations. "That trust has kept us in business for more than a century," he explains. "Our goal is long-term sustainability.
We’re building something that will last for future generations."
Gratitude also plays a significant role in Thompson’s philosophy. "I’m incredibly grateful
to both our family and our employees," he says. "It’s our employees who really set us
apart from other dealerships." Maintaining world-class culture is the top priority-
everything after that becomes easier."
The dealership’s reputation has been built through its commitment to honesty and
service. " Our focus is on values and our people,” he adds. "Our employees are the
lifeblood of this dealership."
Since 1919, the local community has been integral to the dealership’s growth. "Our
customers are generational," he explains. "We have three generations here at
Thompson, and many of our customers span multiple generations as well."
While Thompson Sales has deep roots in tradition, the dealership has always been
forward-thinking, embracing changes in the automotive industry to better serve their
customers. "We’ve seen incredible shifts in vehicle technology over the years, from the
introduction of electric vehicles to advanced safety features," he explains. "Staying
ahead of these trends is crucial for us."
As Chairman of MADA, he sees his role as not only preserving the values that have
sustained the dealership for generations but also leading innovation in the industry. "It's
about adapting while staying true to who we are. Our customers expect the best, and
that means offering them the latest advancements without compromising on trust and
service."
That connection with the community is nurtured through trust and reciprocity. "People
buy vehicles from businesses they trust, and our community trusts us," he says. The
dealership has made a point of giving back, contributing to local charities and schools
throughout the Ozarks. "We always make it a priority to say thank you to the community
that’s supported us for all these years."
"Family-owned businesses that last require the family members to be the hardest
working and most dedicated to their profession," he notes. "Our job is to maintain that
standard and ensure our values continue through the next generation."
If he could speak with his great-grandfather, the founder of the dealership, he knows
exactly what he’d say. "I’d thank him. Thanks for taking a risk and starting a business
that would survive 5 generations and over 105 years!”
When asked about advice for the next generation of family businesses, Thompson says,
"Remember what your goals are and strive every day to exceed them. There will be
challenges, but staying true to your values and working hard will see you through."
Family Legacy at a Glance
Founded: 1919
Generations Involved: 5
Employees: 130+
Core Values:
- Respect
- Loyalty
- Integrity
- Trust
- Sustainability
Thompson Sales has been growing for more than a century alongside the community it serves. With over 130 dedicated employees, the dealership’s success is built on values passed down through the years.
"Our employees and the trust we have in them every day is what sets us apart," says Thompson. Generational customers mirror the family’s ongoing commitment, and monthly donations to local charities and schools reflect their gratitude.
Looking ahead, the focus remains on preserving tradition while embracing innovation. "If I could talk to my great-grandfather today, I’d thank him for the risk he took that built a legacy lasting over 105 years."
World-class culture is top priority-everything after becomes easier.
Miles Thompson
Whether cleaning vehicles or serving as president, everyone has a major role in providing success.