America’s CAR-MART has been serving Owensboro since 2004, offering affordable, quality used vehicles with financing options for customers who may face credit challenges.
General Manager Melissa Henson said the company’s roots go back to 1981, when the first CAR-MART opened in Rogers, Arkansas, with a mission of helping customers purchase reliable vehicles regardless of credit history.
“Our inspiration has always been to provide affordable, quality used vehicles to customers who have limited credit or poor credit,” Henson said.
Henson took over as general manager of the Owensboro location in June 2024. She said the store had been struggling but is now seeing improvements after new management changes and adjustments to inventory.
“Since taking over back in June, we were not doing very well as far as sales. We had a bad name around the area,” she said. “After doing some house cleaning and getting vehicles in that people want, it seems to be doing a lot better. Right now, because of how much we are selling, it’s been a struggle getting vehicles in, but it’s starting to get better.”
Henson said all vehicles sold at CAR-MART come with a service contract, which helps customers manage unexpected repairs.
“All of our vehicles come with a service contract. When something breaks, we will fix it as long as it’s covered,” she said. “There are some things that are not covered, but I still manage to help that customer out.”
A single mother and full-time student, Henson began her career with the company in 2023 as a future manager. She was promoted to assistant manager before being named general manager in Owensboro about 18 months later.
“The most rewarding part of my job is helping the customers find what they are looking for and helping them along the way,” Henson said. “But it’s not just me doing it — it’s my whole staff. Without them taking on tasks to help everyone who walks through the door, it makes a big difference. I couldn’t ask for a better team.”
Henson encouraged anyone in need of a vehicle to visit the dealership, which is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
“If you need a car, come check us out. We would love your business, and we will treat you like family,” she said.
More information about America’s CAR-MART can be found at car-mart.com.
The Chamber Member of the Week program is a Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce membership benefit. Founded in 1913, the Chamber has worked to provide valuable benefits and services to member businesses and individuals for over a century.
Today, with nearly 1,000 members, the Chamber is a guiding force in community and business development initiatives and serves as the center of business advocacy for the Greater Owensboro region.
To learn more about becoming the Chamber Member of the Week or inquire about Chamber membership, contact Kitty Jones, director of membership, at 270-926-1860 or kjones@owensboro.com.
By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times