Burns Honda
OUR HISTORY, OUR LEGACY
The Legacy of Burns Honda and the Burns-Kull Automotive Group
At Burns Honda, we’re more than just a dealership – we’re part of a rich legacy that spans nearly a century. It all began with William Burns, a determined immigrant with a vision of achieving the American dream. His journey from modest beginnings to building one of South Jersey’s most respected automotive groups is a story of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to customer service.
Our Humble Beginnings
William Burns was born in 1898 in Warsaw, Poland, and emigrated with his mother to the Lower East Side of Manhattan at a young age. Seeking a better future, William worked tirelessly, starting as a trolley driver and chauffeur before discovering his true passion: selling cars. In 1925, he purchased a used car lot on Broad Street in Newark, NJ, marking the birth of what would become the Burns automotive legacy.
William’s dedication to providing exceptional customer service quickly earned him recognition. His innovative approach led to the awarding of a Pontiac franchise, transforming his small lot into a thriving business. William’s sons, Robert and Edward, joined the venture, turning the family business into a cornerstone of the community.
Growth and Expansion
In 1970, the Burns family moved their dealership to White Horse Pike in Oaklyn, NJ. Tragically, Robert Burns passed away unexpectedly, leaving Edward Burns to continue the family legacy. In a pivotal moment for the company, Edward partnered with Richard Kull, forming a collaboration that redefined the company’s future. Together, they founded the Burns-Kull Automotive Group, fostering growth and innovation in South Jersey.
On November 17, 1973, the Burns family opened Burns Pontiac Honda in Marlton, featuring one of the largest Pontiac showrooms on the East Coast. To celebrate the grand opening, they hosted an unforgettable event with a live elephant and a Ferris wheel, earning the nickname ‘Big Burns.’
Pontiac and Honda initially shared a showroom, but by 1979, Honda’s popularity led to the construction of a dedicated showroom next door. In 2002, a larger Honda showroom was built on Route 73, where Burns Honda proudly operates today. While General Motors discontinued the Pontiac nameplate in 2010, Burns Honda continues to thrive, celebrating 50 years in Marlton and serving as a trusted destination for drivers across the region.
A Legacy of Service
From its humble beginnings with just five employees, the Burns-Kull Automotive Group has grown into a powerhouse of the automotive industry in South Jersey. Today, the company employs over 500 people across multiple locations, including Marlton, Vineland, Avalon, and Oaklyn – just two blocks from the original South Jersey dealership. Each location is a testament to William Burns’ vision of a customer-first approach to automotive sales and service.
Burns Honda, a key part of this legacy, exemplifies the group’s commitment to excellence. With accolades such as the Honda President’s Award and the 2024 DealerRater Consumer Satisfaction Award, Burns Honda continues to be a trusted destination for South Jersey drivers seeking a better car-buying experience.
Continuing the Vision
The Burns-Kull Automotive Group remains a family-oriented business, deeply rooted in its founder’s values of integrity, innovation, and exceptional customer service. As the automotive industry evolves, the company stays ahead by embracing new technologies and maintaining its steadfast dedication to customer satisfaction.
We invite you to be part of our legacy. Whether you’re looking for a new Honda, a quality pre-owned vehicle, or reliable service, Burns Honda is here to serve you. Experience the tradition of excellence that has defined us for nearly 100 years.
*Note: The images and advertisements displayed on this page are for historical and entertainment purposes only. They do not depict current Honda models or offers available at Burns Honda. Any pricing, promotions, or vehicle details shown in these historical materials are outdated and no longer valid. Please visit our dealership or browse our website for the latest Honda models, pricing, and offers.
