DeLuca Toyota celebrates 45 years

Brent Sergot, president of Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC, and executive VP of JM Family Enterprises, presents Frank DeLuca with a trophy commemorating DeLuca Toyota’s 45 years of service. [Photo courtesy DeLuca Toyota]

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Posted October 31, 2023 | Staff report

DeLuca Toyota, founded in October 1978 by Frank DeLuca, recently celebrated its 45^th anniversary.

The dealership, located at 1719 SW College Road, Ocala, started as a modest two-car showroom but has grown significantly over the years.

“It looked like the middle of the woods with oak trees all over. It was a two-lane highway, you could park on the side of the road, and it was just totally different,” DeLuca recalled of the early days in a press release.

Now, DeLuca Toyota encompasses a 24-acre facility with a 51-bay service center, on-site collision center, hair and nail salon, rooftop putting green and other amenities. The dealership team has grown to 186 members.

“We have served three generations of families since 1978. The DeLuca difference means treating everyone as an honored guest in our home; you’ll notice that difference the moment you walk through our doors,” DeLuca noted in the release.

DeLuca Toyota has a long history of supporting the community and has contributed more than $11 million to various causes. Beneficiaries include the Frank DeLuca YMCA, American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, Give4Marion, Trinity Catholic School, Habitat for Humanity, Boys & Girls Club of Marion County, Second Harvest Food Bank, Interfaith Emergency Services, the College of Central Florida and many others.

“Giving back to the community is not only a privilege but a responsibility. When you look beyond yourself to meet someone else’s needs, that’s where philanthropy starts. Giving back not only feels good but is the right thing to do,” DeLuca said in the release.

“Frank is a perfect representation of the Toyota brand. He takes care of his customers, gives back to his community, and has been a fantastic dealer for the last 45 years. We are proud that he represents the Toyota brand in Ocala, Florida,” Brent Sergot, president of Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC, and executive VP of JM Family Enterprises, said in the release.

To learn more, go to delucatoyota.com