A Thanksgiving First: Stellantis Mandates Nationwide Closure for Ram and Chrysler Dealerships

Well, this is certainly a notable shift in the automotive world! Stellantis, the massive parent company that brings us beloved brands like Ram, Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep, has just announced something rather unprecedented. For the very first time, they're issuing a national directive for all their U.S. dealerships to close their doors for a full 24 hours on Thanksgiving Day, which falls on Thursday, November 28, 2024.

It's big news, especially in an industry that often sees businesses open during holidays, even if with reduced hours. But not this Thanksgiving, not for Stellantis-affiliated dealerships. From midnight to midnight, those showrooms and service bays will be firmly shut. The clear message here? Employee well-being comes first, at least for this particular holiday. Imagine, a genuine, uninterrupted day off to spend with family and friends, free from the usual demands of the showroom floor or the service center. Honestly, who wouldn't appreciate that?

This isn't just a suggestion, mind you; it's a mandate. While many individual dealerships might choose to close for Thanksgiving anyway, a blanket, manufacturer-issued closure across an entire network is incredibly rare. We're talking about a significant statement from a global automotive giant. It certainly stands in contrast to how other major players, like Ford or General Motors, typically operate, as they haven't issued similar widespread directives for their dealerships. It really makes you pause and consider the company's evolving approach to its workforce.

So, if you were planning to pop into a Ram or Chrysler dealership for that Black Friday early bird deal or a last-minute car check before your holiday travels, you'll need to adjust your schedule. The doors won't be open until Friday. This move isn't just a win for the thousands of dealership employees who get to enjoy a true holiday; it also sends a powerful message about corporate responsibility and the growing recognition of work-life balance, even in high-demand sectors like automotive retail. Perhaps other manufacturers will take note?

Ultimately, it's a refreshing decision that allows those who work tirelessly to keep our roads moving to enjoy a well-deserved, traditional American holiday. A full day off, truly unplugged – what a concept! It's a genuine gesture that, one hopes, will resonate positively with both employees and the public.