Our Story

Where It All Started

Fitzgerald Auto Malls started with a bold idea and one determined man.

In 1956, a 20-year-old Jack Fitzgerald began his sales career as a door-to-door salesman. With a rare gift for connecting with people, Jack quickly found his footing in the automotive world. He became one of the top salespeople at Handley Ford in Washington, D.C., setting the foundation for a future built on trust, integrity, and respect.

In 1966, Jack purchased a stake in Diver Dodge, a dealership in Bethesda, Maryland. Just two years later, he moved the business to Rockville Pike and renamed it Colonial Dodge.

A Different Way to Do Business

From the very beginning, Jack's philosophy was simple: Treat every customer with honesty, transparency, and respect.

Long before it was an industry norm, he introduced a “no haggle – no hassle” pricing model that gave customers a fair, upfront deal. This approach created a new level of trust in car buying—and it became the cornerstone of how we do business. —what's known today as The FitzWay.

Growth Rooted in Values

Today, Fitzgerald Auto Malls includes 20 franchises across Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Florida, employing more than 1,800 people. Through every interaction, Jack's values of dignity, fairness, and customer advocacy continue to guide us.

In 2023, Jack made one of his most meaningful contributions to the company's future. On February 1, Fitzgerald Auto Malls became the largest dealership group in the U.S. to transition to 100% employee ownership.

A Lasting Legacy

Jack Fitzgerald passed away on April 8, 2025, leaving behind a legacy that forever changed the automotive industry. His vision wasn't just about selling cars—it was about doing right by people, empowering employees, and earning the trust of every customer.

Today, we proudly carry that legacy forward.At Fitzgerald Auto Malls, The FitzWay isn't just how we do business—it's a promise we live by.