Arthur G. Prices: A Pioneering Figure in the Automotive Industry

Arthur G. Prices, born in 1890, was a visionary entrepreneur who left an indelible mark on the automotive industry. His innovative spirit and business acumen transformed the way vehicles were distributed and serviced, making him a pivotal figure in the industry's evolution.

Early Life and Career Beginnings
Prices was born in Kansas City, Missouri, and showed an early aptitude for business. After serving in World War I, he began his career in the automotive industry as a salesman for the Maxwell-Briscoe Company in 1919. His natural talent for sales and his ability to build strong relationships with customers quickly propelled him up the ranks.

Founding Arthur G. Prices Motor Company
In 1922, Prices founded the Arthur G. Prices Motor Company in Kansas City. The company started as a small dealership, but under Prices' leadership, it grew into a major player in the automotive industry. He was one of the first dealers to recognize the importance of customer service and satisfaction, a philosophy that would become a cornerstone of his success.

Innovative Marketing Strategies
- Prices was a pioneer in the use of radio advertising to promote his dealership. He was one of the first dealers to sponsor a local radio show, "The Arthur G. Prices Hour," which featured live music and entertainment.
- He also innovated in the use of customer loyalty programs, offering rewards and discounts to repeat customers.
Expansion and Diversification

By the 1930s, Prices had expanded his dealership into a regional operation, selling a variety of makes including Ford, Chevrolet, and Plymouth. He also diversified into other areas of the automotive industry, opening service centers and used car lots. His company became one of the largest and most successful dealerships in the Midwest.
Impact on the Industry
Prices' influence extended beyond his own dealership. He was a founding member of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) and served as its president from 1933 to 1934. During his tenure, he advocated for fair franchising practices and improved relations between dealers and manufacturers.

| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1919 | Began career as a salesman for Maxwell-Briscoe Company |
| 1922 | Founded Arthur G. Prices Motor Company |
| 1933-1934 | Served as President of the National Automobile Dealers Association |
Legacy and Impact




















Arthur G. Prices passed away in 1962, but his legacy lives on. His dealership, now known as Price Chopper Auto, continues to operate under the principles he established: a commitment to customer service, innovative marketing, and community involvement. His story serves as a testament to the power of entrepreneurship and innovation in shaping an industry.
Moreover, Prices' influence can be seen in the modern automotive industry. His emphasis on customer satisfaction and service has become a standard in the industry. His innovative marketing strategies, particularly his use of radio advertising, laid the groundwork for the sophisticated marketing campaigns used by dealerships today.