Our History

From 1961 to 1998

In 1961, Jean-Claude Gervais, the founder, began his career in school transportation, laying the foundations for his future success in the automotive field. In 1967, taking advantage of the rise of small cars, he joined the Datsun brand, thus starting his career in the industry. A second Datsun dealership on Boulevard des Hêtres in Shawinigan was acquired by him from 1970 to 1979. The following year, while staying in the same field, he opted for an AMC Jeep banner. In 1981, after selling his dealerships, Jean-Claude, then president, dedicated himself exclusively to school transportation. Finally, in 1984, the founder decided to sell his school transportation business to focus on selling used cars.

In 1983, Yvon joined the family business, followed in 1984 by René, both sons of Jean-Claude. At that time, the inventory of the J. Claude Gervais auto garage comprised only ten vehicles.
In 1985, the company experienced significant expansion with the enlargement of the mechanical department due to the acquisition of an adjacent plot in Saint-Georges de Champlain. At that time, the market far exceeded the borders of central Mauricie, extending from La Tuque to Nicolet. The company had about fifteen employees, including office staff, advisors, and mechanics.

In 1991, Daniel Gervais, the youngest son of Jean-Claude, joined the team, further strengthening the family's presence in the business.
In 1992, the inventory of J. Claude Gervais Auto reached 100 units, marking significant growth since its creation. The business expanded its horizon by selling trucks, vans, and compact vehicles.

In 1997, a major event reshaped the landscape of J.C. Gervais Auto with the demolition of a mechanical garage in Shawinigan. The previous year, the construction of the new mechanical garage had been completed, paving the way for continuous business development. This expansion allowed the company to expand its inventory to 150 units while maintaining a full range of services from purchase to sale, including long-term rental and on-site financing.

Between 1997 and 1999, the company made major strategic decisions by investing nearly $500,000 in its expansion, aiming to consolidate its market position. This initiative materialized through several concrete actions, including the acquisition of Voisin Gravel Auto and the enlargement of the sales and mechanical area. This turning point marked a significant stage in the company's growth, as its vehicle inventory now reached between 200 and 230 cars, further strengthening its market offer.

The 2000s

At the turn of the millennium, the company entered a new era marked by the modernization of its image and marketing strategies. The name J.C. Gervais Auto gave way to Gervais Auto, reflecting a more contemporary approach. The rise of digital marketing prompted the company to highlight the presence of its website, capitalizing on the opportunities offered by the digital age to increase its visibility and reach. New marketing techniques, such as web marketing, were deployed, while promotional campaigns were developed, and the company engaged in events to enhance its reputation.
In 2006, Gervais Auto recorded a flourishing year, with strong loyalty from thousands of customers who renewed their purchase experience. With the construction of its second branch in the Trois-Rivières area, the vehicle inventory now reached an impressive figure of 400 units.

2010-2016

In 2010, following their studies, Michael, Maxime, and Guillaume Gervais (sons of René and Yvon) officially joined the business. Their arrival marked the beginning of a new era for the company, with a young and dynamic vision that gave new momentum to the activity. This third generation of the Gervais family joined the business and proudly adhered to the values of honesty, transparency, and excellence of Gervais Auto.
In 2013, Gervais Auto concluded a sponsorship agreement with the Cataractes Hockey team and the city of Shawinigan to rename the local Arena "Centre Gervais Auto."
Simultaneously, that year, the company was forced to undertake renovations at its Shawinigan branch due to the presence of Pyrrhotite in the foundation, necessitating significant structural adjustments. From 2014, René and Yvon began steps to sell their shares, marking the beginning of their gradual withdrawal from the family business. This change of shareholders symbolized the transfer of the torch to the third generation. Additionally, that year, the inventory reached 500 vehicles.

2015 to 2020

In 2015, the founder's family house, initially annexed to the Shawinigan site, was acquired by Gervais Auto and demolished 2 years later to expand the parking area and offer a wider range of vehicles to consumers. In Trois-Rivières, from 2017, the company expanded the area of their land and doubled the building, allowing the development of new departments dedicated to car aesthetics and repair.

2020-2024

During the pandemic, car dealers had to adapt to the scarcity of vehicles and their exorbitant prices. Gervais Auto, threatened by this macroeconomic phenomenon accentuated by government financial aid, had to find new supply means to meet the demand. This is when the creation of the purchasing department came about. In 2020, the Trois-Rivières branch was expanded with the merging of an adjoining establishment to the yard. This establishment welcomes new vehicle buyers. They use their extensive knowledge of the automotive market to find the best vehicles across Quebec. Whether directly from individuals or through other dealerships, the Gervais Auto team ensures a wide selection of quality cars, at fair prices, inspected and guaranteed.

2024

To date, Gervais Auto Inc. boasts an impressive inventory of over 600 vehicles and averages 2,500 retail sales per year, reflecting its journey marked by positive ambition, honesty, and a family atmosphere. This growth has been made possible thanks to a dedicated team of over 80 employees holding key positions within the company.

The future for the company

At Gervais Auto, our history, which began as a family adventure in our beautiful region, now extends to new territories, attracting an increasingly varied and extensive clientele.
Our commitment to our customers remains unchanged: to offer quality used vehicles at competitive prices, meticulously repaired and aesthetically refurbished, all in an atmosphere of trust and honesty. At Gervais Auto, quality and customer satisfaction remain our top priorities.
By continuing to stand out for our exceptional service and warm, family approach, we strengthen the bonds that unite us with our customers, thus creating a community of car enthusiasts who choose Gervais Auto for their next vehicles.
Whether you are from Mauricie or elsewhere, we invite you to join us and become part of the Gervais Auto family. Come experience a unique buying experience, where friendliness and quality service are at the heart of everything we do. Take the wheel of your next vehicle at Gervais Auto and let us accompany you on the road to new horizons!

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