Michaud Mitsubishi registered its first sale the day it opened for business on Thursday, Feb. 28. Methuen resident Katie Ouellette purchased a 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT coup.
As the new dealer's first customer, she also netted a dozen roses, Godiva chocolates and some Mitsubishi apparel.
Located in Danvers, Michaud is the former Kelly Mitsubishi, which was part of the North Shore's Kelly Automotive Group family of dealerships. Kevin Michaud, owner and president of the new operation, purchased the Mitsubishi franchise after working for Kelly for 25 years. His last position at Kelly was vice president, director of operations.
To encourage used-car sales, Michaud Mitsubishi provides its own "no risk guarantee." The program includes a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty, one year of 24-hour roadside assistance and a 30-day "no-risk" exchange policy.
"If you are not satisfied with your pre-owned vehicle purchase, we will replace it with a pre-owned vehicle of equal value," Michaud said. "This guarantee is a huge selling point."
