History of the Rydell Company | Kalispell Auto Group

The History of Rydell: Proud Roots Behind Kalispell Auto Group

When you walk into any of the Kalispell Auto Group dealerships, whether Toyota, Ford, or Volkswagen, you’re stepping into more than a showroom. You’re experiencing the legacy of the Rydell Company, a group founded on principles that have shaped automotive retail for decades.

A Humble Beginning, A Bold Vision

The Rydell Company traces its roots back to 1954 when Leonard Rydell opened his first dealership in North Dakota. With a simple mission: take care of customers, take care of employees, and everything else will fall into place. Rydell created a values-first business model. That approach quickly resonated and became the framework for what would evolve into one of the largest privately held dealership groups in the United States. As it currently stands, there are over 100 automotive dealers across 18 states that operate under Rydell’s vision.

Core Values That Drive Success

The Rydell philosophy is built on honesty, integrity, teamwork, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. The company empowers employees to act in the customer’s best interest, supports personal development, and values long-term relationships over short-term profit. This value-driven model has led to success nationwide, proving that ethical business is indeed good business. Whether it is investing in our community, our customers, or our staff, Kalispell Auto Group lives and breathes these values to this day.

Kalispell Auto Group: A Rydell Partner in Montana

Kalispell Auto Group proudly brings the Rydell values to northwest Montana, whether it is investing in our community, our customers, or our staff. Comprising Kalispell Toyota, Kalispell Ford, and Kalispell Volkswagen, we carry forward the same mission that started in 1954, putting people first. Our addition of Kalispell Ford in 2014 and Volkswagen in the following years marked a new chapter of growth, built on a foundation of trust.

From first-time car buyers to returning service customers, our team upholds the Rydell way: no pressure, no gimmicks, no negotiation, just honest service and transparent pricing.

Moving Forward, Staying Rooted

As part of the Rydell group, Kalispell Auto Group continues to grow while staying grounded in the values that built it. Our commitment to the Flathead Valley mirrors Rydell’s commitment to every community it serves: treat people right, and they’ll keep coming back.

Schedule a test drive and experience the Rydell difference at Kalispell Toyota, Kalispell Ford, and Kalispell Volkswagen, where legacy meets local!