49-Year Auto Industry Veteran Takes Top Honor at One of the Nation's Largest Automotive Dealers

Hugh Whiles Awarded Sonic Automotive's 2008 O. Bruton Smith Award

CHARLOTTE, N.C., June 29 -- Sonic Automotive bestowed its top honor, the O. Bruton Smith Award, to long-time company executive Hugh Whiles. The award, which was named for Sonic Automotive founder O. Bruton Smith, is given annually to the employee who best exemplifies the qualities championed by its namesake: a sterling character, genuine enthusiasm for work, a drive to succeed, appreciation and respect for all members of the team, a heart for helping others, a vision of what can be done, and constant determination to take the high road.

This year's recipient, Charlotte-based Hugh Whiles, has been with Sonic Automotive for 18 years and has been a consistent model for fellow Sonic associates and for all that can be achieved within the company and the auto industry. A widely-regarded mentor to many in Sonic's parts and service division, Whiles is known throughout the company for displaying respect and diplomacy with everyone he encounters. As Vice President of Fixed Operations, Whiles has taken many of Sonic's associates under his wing to develop them into complete automotive professionals capable of contributing to Sonic's legacy of industry competitiveness and high-quality service.

"I recognized him as a very energetic employee who had a very positive influence on all the other associates," said Sonic Automotive Founder and CEO O. Bruton Smith. "He's always first, as far as doing his job and doing it correctly. What I always admire about Hugh is his work ethic and his strong customer and service focus."

"The first time I ever met him I knew right then what kind of character he had. I can think of no other person more deserving of the OBS award than Hugh Whiles," added Scott Smith, Sonic Co-founder and President.

Whiles began his career in the automotive industry nearly a half-century ago as a parts truck driver in a California dealership. The son of a former owner of a Colorado dealership, Whiles was born into the automobile industry and has consistently contributed to its evolution throughout his career.

"Hugh has been the standard-bearer for our company," offered Harry Harden, Vice President of Human Resources. "His character is above reproach and he exemplifies the ideals of Sonic Automotive."