Toyota store starts $25M project
RICHMOND HILL, ONT. – One of Toyota’s higher-volume stores has started a massive facility upgrade with an expected completion time aimed to coincide with the point’s 20th anniversary.
Richmond Hill Toyota, owned by dealer principal Emain Kadrie, has retailed more than 35,000 units since opening in 1994. The new point, located about seven km north on Yonge Street and roughly 30 minutes north of Toronto, will be a $25-million facility expected to open in late 2014.
Plans for the four-and-a-half acre site include a “state-of-the-art” building that achieves Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold Certification.
It will boast an interior showroom for pre-owned vehicles in the lower level, directly under the main showroom for new cars. The two showrooms will be connected via an open staircase, with special glass and steel balustrades surrounding the large opening. The site will also be home to a new Scion store, a children’s play area and an expanded retail parts and accessories store.
Toyota Canada said charging stations for electric vehicles will be provided, and a special water feature has been designed for a high-tech waiting area that will give visitors access to Internet, video and audio feeds.
“When Richmond Hill Toyota opened its doors nearly 20 years ago, we had fewer than 30 employees,” Kadrie said at the groundbreaking ceremony in late November.
“Today, we employ more than 80 people and this outstanding new facility represents a substantial new phase of growth for us. Our entire team is excited to provide our customers with an enhanced dealership experience at our new location.”
Toyota Canada president and CEO Seiji Ichii was also at the sod-turning. He called the dealership an “important contributor to the local community and economy,” noting the new store will provide a home for existing and new Toyota customers.
The lot is next to Richmond Hill Hyundai and less than one kilometre from Richmond Hill Lexus.
There is no word what will happen to the current point once construction is complete next year.
