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Ernie Haire Ford Of Tampa Files For Chapter 11 Bankruptcy

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By MICHAEL SASSO

msasso@tampatrib.com

Published: November 26, 2008

TAMPA - Ernie Haire Ford Inc. of Tampa has filed for bankruptcy protection, boosting to at least five the number of local auto dealerships that have faltered in the troubled economy.

On Monday, Ernie Haire filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, which will allow it to continue operating and to reorganize its finances while protected from its creditors.

In bankruptcy documents, the company says its sales have declined to less than $150 million this year from about $206 million last year and about $256 million two years ago.

Adding to its problems, Ernie Haire's borrowing costs for its inventory of cars and trucks have risen, many of its customers are having trouble getting financing to buy vehicles, and Ford Motor Co. has cut off certain payments to dealers, the company said.

Recently, Ernie Haire was hit with a $6.9 million court judgment over the sale of window-etching products.

A spokesman for Ernie Haire was not immediately available.

Ernie Haire has about 175 employees. Its principal office is at 9545 N. Florida Ave. in Tampa. The bankruptcy filing includes other Ernie Haire companies, such as Big Dog Motorcycles of Tampa, Ernie Haire Used Car Auto Mall, Ernie Haire Used Car Supercenter of Tampa, and a local Quick Lane Tire & Auto Center.

The dealership was founded in 1956 and has been family-owned ever since, according to its Web site. The family has had a rocky history. Ernie Haire Jr. was shot to death by his wife, Mary, as they were going through a divorce. She was acquitted by a jury in 1983 after arguing self-defense. In 1997, the family fought over assets in court.

Reporter Michael Sasso can be reached at (813) 259-7865.

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