Even in the most difficult of times for the U.S. automobile industry, Scarff Ford continues to shine.

Auburn’s oldest business and one of the longest-running dealerships in the Northwest, remains steadfast on some key things.

Notably, customer satisfaction and operational excellence.

Scarff Ford recently won the 2008 President’s Award, one of the most prestigious honors Ford Motor Co. annually bestows upon a dealership. Scarff was one of 237 Ford dealers out of 2,900 nationally, one of 14 out of 152 regionally and one of six in the state to receive the award.

It is the third President’s Award for Scarff Ford in 10 years.

“It’s a matter of taking care of our customers and exceeding our sales expectations,” said Way Scarff, third-generation owner and operator of the family business. “It’s something to be proud of. It’s really a reflection of the team’s effort. And one of the big things for us is taking care of our customers.”

According to Ford Motor Co. executives, Scarff Ford demonstrated leadership among its peers, the community and with customers, representing the best in automotive retailing. The award recognizes the best of the best among Ford dealerships – those that offer customers the most exceptional sales, service and vehicle ownership experience. The award is based on customer surveys.

Eric Cin, regional manager for Ford, was on hand at the dealership last Friday to present the award to Scarff and his crew.

“It’s basically what the customers are saying about them,” Cin said of the special award. “This is the highest award any dealer can earn … and recognizes outstanding customer satisfaction.”

The recession has hit auto and truck sales hard. Across the country, dealerships have consolidated, even closed, and others have made significant cutbacks, from operating expenses to layoffs.

Scarff Motors and its competition along Auburn’s auto row have not been immune.

Still, Scarff Ford continues to persevere.

“We have a real sound future – I’m real happy about that,” Scarff said. “We intend to be around for a long time.”

Scarff Ford has a rich history in South King County, ever since Scarff’s grandfather, Wayland Scarff, started the dealership in 1922, a few blocks from its present location.

Elsewhere

• Marvel Food & Deli now is open at 615 C Street SW. The grocery, deli and café offers European goods.

The store, under the ownership of Andrey and Nadya Ivantsov, is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

For information, visit www.marvelfoodanddeli.com.

• The Euro Market, one of Auburn’s most popular European grocers, has moved. Karl Konrad’s store can be found at 223 Auburn Way N.

Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Tuesday-Friday; and 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday.

The deli specializes in a wide range of meats, cheeses and breads made fresh each day. The store also offers European-style sandwiches and international beers and wines.

The store will be a participant at the Auburn International Farmers Market.

For more information, call 253-218-9961.

• GG’s Hand and Feet Boutique recently opened at 912 Harvey Road.

The shop specializes in pedicures and manicures, regular and high end, along with hand-filed acrylic nails, facials and waxing.

The owner, Bonnie Bayer, has 16 years of experience.

Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Tuesday-Friday, and by appointment on Saturday.

For information, call 253-350-9502.