Oftringen - Anyone travelling in the Zofingen region will be familiar with the large selection of vehicles on Äussere Luzernerstrasse. The two businesses run by the Konstantin family in Oftringen combine high-tech, diversity and warmth. What once began as a Subaru dealership in Rothrist is now a modern mobility centre with two strong pillars: the Porsche Centre Aargau and Garage Konstantin, which stocks the Subaru, MG and Maxus brands.
“I always had the desire to get ahead independently,” recalls Foti Konstantin. “The desire to realise my own ideas led to the founding of my company in 1988 — at a time with fewer hurdles, but a lot of courage. Together with my wife Manuela and a small team, the five of us started — with foresight, partnership, and the clear goal of growth.”
Family business with history and heart
“I always felt the need to move forward independently,” Foti Konstantin recalls the beginnings of his company. As a former workshop manager, he didn’t always agree with his line manager. “This circumstance fuelled the urge in me to implement my own ideas.”
That was in 1988 — a time when, according to Foti Konstantin, one could be more daring because there were fewer administrative hurdles. In the same year, he took over the Subaru dealership in Rothrist.
“And even today, we maintain a first-class partnership with the Emil Frey Group, the importer of the Subaru brand,” the founder emphasises.
In 1997, the business reached the limits of its capacity. With the purchase of suitable premises, the Subaru dealership was relocated to Oftringen.
“There were five of us back then: my wife Manuela, who had been running the company with me since 1989, three employees, and myself,” says Foti Konstantin. The location offered room for growth — and the opportunity to expand if necessary. This foresight paid off in the following years with the acquisition of additional space.
The step to Porsche - in the middle of the crisis
Another milestone followed in 2007 with the planning of a new building. Thanks to Manuela Konstantin's personal network, the opportunity arose to realise her own building project on the plot of land she had acquired. After some challenging months, the "Porsche Service Centre, F. + M. Konstantin" was opened in 2010 - in the middle of the financial crisis, which caused many people to shake their heads. But the courage was rewarded: in January 2014, the service centre developed into today's "Porsche Centre Aargau, F. + M. Konstantin".
The next major investment took place in 2019/2020 during the coronavirus pandemic: the construction of a modern glass building with four floors was realised - again in economically uncertain times.
Diversity with attitude
Today, the two companies employ around 45 people. In addition to Porsche and Subaru, the MG and Maxus brands were added in 2024. “This means we also offer vehicles in a very attractively priced segment,” explains Foti Konstantin.
Because mobility shouldn’t be a luxury. What the two companies have in common is that they don’t just sell cars – they offer solutions. “A vehicle has to meet your needs, not just your budget,” says Alexander Konstantin. Advice is given at eye level, without any sales pressure. Over 250 vehicles are available directly from stock, but the conversation is crucial: “We take the time to find out what truly fits.”
Generations in dialogue – Familiar and approachable
The next generation has been firmly in the saddle since 2014, when son Alexander and daughter Laura joined the company. Alexander Konstantin had just completed his apprenticeship at Mercedes when staff shortages arose in his parents’ company. He stepped in – and stayed.
“Since then, Alexander has brought in a fresh perspective,” smiles Foti Konstantin, “and also provides for lively discussions.”
Despite its growth, the company has retained its down-to-earth attitude. Visitors to the businesses often meet a member of the family. Customers appreciate the personal atmosphere and the long-term service philosophy. The workforce also benefits from flat hierarchies, clear values and a family atmosphere. “We don’t want to be a sterile, glossy showroom,” says Laura Konstantin, “but a place where you feel you’re in good hands – whether you’re making a purchase, using the service or simply popping in.”
The second generation brings new impetus without changing the basics. Digitalisation, sustainability and new forms of mobility have long been part of the strategic direction. At the same time, the foundations remain stable: hard work, reliability and genuine customer proximity.
At the centre of the region – open to the future
Whether sporty or practical, luxurious or efficient - mobility is changing. The Konstantin family has not only adapted, but actively helped to shape it. A local mobility provider with supra-regional appeal - driven by passion, commitment and the courage to make decisions in difficult times.
“You have to be hard-working – and stay that way.” This is the family’s credo. A simple sentence, says Foti Konstantin, but one that still characterises the family business today.