In a special episode of the Let’s Move to New Hampshire podcast, host Mark Erickson sat down with Amanda Grappone Osmer, the newly appointed fourth-generation owner of Grappone Ford, Honda, and Mazda. Few family businesses in New Hampshire can claim more than a century of continuous operation—let alone in the fast-changing automotive industry. But for the Grappone family, longevity has always been rooted in resilience, values, and community-centered leadership.
For newcomer retirees and families relocating to New Hampshire, the conversation offered more than a business profile: it revealed the story of a Granite State legacy built on integrity, respect, and a deep commitment to serving others.
A Family Story Spanning Four Generations
The Grappone story began with Amanda’s great-grandparents, Southern Italian immigrants who opened a modest gas station after arriving in the United States. Over the next century, that small station evolved into one of New Hampshire’s most trusted automotive groups.
Today, the Grappone name appears on Ford and Honda dealerships in Bow and a Mazda dealership in Concord. And now, after a major transition earlier this fall, Amanda has officially taken the reins as the fourth-generation owner.
“It's remarkable,” she said. “After researching what my great grandparents endured to get here and survive, it makes me incredibly proud to continue their work.”
Her earliest memories trace back to age six, wandering the Ford store, confused by the “parts” and “body shop” signs being right next to each other. “I thought someone was losing parts of their body,” she joked.
Values at the Center: Integrity, Kindness, Respect
The modern Grappone mission was forged 15 years ago, when Amanda gathered 30 longtime managers for a team exercise. They were asked to describe what Grappone meant to them, and three words surfaced again and again:
Integrity. Kindness. Respect.
Those values became the foundation of the company’s mission:“To build lifelong relationships by serving with integrity, kindness, and respect.”
It’s a philosophy that resonates strongly with New Hampshire newcomers—especially retirees seeking trustworthy businesses in their new home state.
A Bold Shift in How Cars Are Sold
Thirteen years ago, Grappone took a bold step that reshaped its customer experience:
- No more price negotiation
- No commission-based sales staff
- No separate finance departments
Customers had voiced frustration with hidden fees and last-minute payment changes during the finance process. Grappone acted.
“Our product specialists handle the entire process,” Amanda said. “Their job is to help, not pressure.”
The dealership also brought customers directly into the trade-in appraisal process, creating a more transparent and collaborative experience. Word spread quickly, drawing customers from across New England.
Helping Buyers Choose What They Really Need
New Hampshire’s four-season lifestyle makes vehicle choices practical and personal. From winter traction to fuel efficiency, retirees and newcomers often seek guidance.
Amanda said the key is simple: “We ask good questions.”
Hybrids with all-wheel drive remain popular—especially as electric vehicle range drops in winter. Amanda herself drives a Mazda CX-50 hybrid AWD, calling it the “perfect fit for New Hampshire living.”
Industry Challenges: EV Infrastructure and AI
Amanda addressed two major industry challenges:
1. EV Infrastructure Gaps
New Hampshire isn’t yet equipped for widespread EV adoption. Sparse fast-charging availability and reduced winter range remain obstacles.
“People were told not to bring EVs to the solar eclipse,” she noted. “That says a lot.”
2. The Rise of AI
Grappone experimented with an AI phone system but removed it.
“People want to talk to a human,” she said. “If AI doesn’t serve our guests, it doesn’t belong.”
A New Chapter in Ownership
After buying the Mazda franchise from her father in 2022, Amanda worked for two and a half years to purchase the remaining dealerships. It was an emotional, complex process, complicated by the loss of her brother, who had once been part of the future ownership plan.
The family ultimately sold Toyota and Hyundai to support retirement goals—changes Amanda described as “bittersweet but necessary.”
While she could have sold everything and cashed out, she refused.
“I’m not motivated by money,” she said. “I’m motivated by helping people reach their potential.”
Giving Back: A Grappone Tradition
For many New Hampshire residents, the Grappone name is synonymous not just with auto sales, but with community service.
Amanda was raised in a philanthropic household and now leads the business with the same values. Grappone donates 5% of net profits to charity annually and gives employees paid volunteer days—plus a $250 donation to their chosen nonprofit.
“Helping people feels good,” Amanda said. “And we want our team to experience that.”
Preserving the Grappone Legacy
To honor the company’s 100th anniversary, Amanda wrote a book tracing her family’s history from 1730 Italy to 1924 New Hampshire. A second volume will document the company’s next century.
She gifted the book to employees, reminding them of the extraordinary effort and perseverance behind the Grappone name.
“It’s no accident we’ve made it 101 years,” she said. “We show up every day with purpose.”
A Welcome Story for Newcomers to New England
For newcomers and those moving to New Hampshire, the Grappone story reflects values many seek in their new community: trust, longevity, fairness, and a genuine commitment to people. The Grappone legacy continues—now guided by a leader who honors the past while preparing for the next 100 years.