B U S I N E S S
&
L E A D E R S H I P
Laurie’s natural athletic aptitude and honed skills in leadership, confidence, risk-taking and self-discipline. After spending the better part of an hour with her, it is apparent she holds those core values near and dear and calls upon said values to operate her companies. Post college, Laurie initially cut her teeth in the banking industry in Mississippi. Hailing from this background in banking, she enjoyed working the automobile loan process from start to finish. In particular, she says, “The loans acquired for really cool cars grabbed my attention.” An interest grew for the auto industry. Over time, Laurie planned to move closer to family. An opportunity to partner at Honda of Covington in August 1998 led to settling in Louisiana. By July 2013, Laurie and her partners acquired Garrett Honda, adding Gator Powersports in June 2020. Covington Powersports was born and is now located alongside Honda of Covington. The empire continued to grow. In April 2018, Laurie partnered with the Baranco family on her latest venture—bringing a
In the Driver’s Seat with Laurie McCants Clear as the modern glass-ensconced structure housing luxury
at Mercedes-Benz of Covington is a dream realized. Laurie is a fixture at each dealership, tackling day-to-day duties and big-picture concepts. She has created a culture at all three entities based on
Mercedes-Benz vehicles is the commanding presence of Laurie
excellent customer service, loyalty and standing behind products.
McCants. McCants has made a name for herself along the Gulf
These pillars make Honda of Covington, Covington Powersports
Coast as a driving force in automotive and Powersports dealerships.
and Mercedes-Benz of Covington perfect choices when in pursuit
Currently, she is Managing Partner of three local dealerships, namely
of a luxury or economical vehicle or a weekend joy ride. Although
Honda of Covington, Covington PowerSports and Mercedes-Benz of
accessibility and a hands-on approach keep Laurie keyed in, she
Covington.
purposefully designed a stellar team. She says, “My personal
The Mississippi town of Hattiesburg saw Laurie grow up and ultimately leave for a distant (and, different!) Southern home— Southern California. Dreaming of a distinct career path and a change
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Mercedes-Benz dealership to the Northshore. Becoming a partner
assistant, department managers and controllers at each store are solid. I couldn’t be successful without them.” Laurie, a powerhouse in the boardroom, puts it on the line for
of scenery, SoCal was the winner. Laurie remembers warmly, “The
a worthy cause. She is a former twelve-year board member of the St.
weather is so nice. Everything is happening outside there. So much
Tammany Parish Hospital Foundation and two-year chairperson. Also,
to do—surfing, swimming, running, golf, tennis, exercise—it’s all done
she holds past and present board posts at Safe Haven Foundation
outdoors!” Regular participation in outdoor activities complemented
and St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce. A founding member of the
Honda of Covington,
Covington Powersports,
100 Holiday Square Boulevard, 985-892-0001
152 Holiday Square Boulevard, 985-892-9730
Inside Northside
