Herbert G. Chambers (born November 24 1941) is an American billionaire businessman, best known as the owner and president of The Herb Chambers Companies, a network of automobile dealerships in the greater Boston, Massachusetts area.
Early life and education
Chambers was born in Dorchester, Massachusetts, the son of a commercial artist and a homemaker. He grew up in a two‑family home owned by his maternal grandmother. After leaving English High School of Boston in his senior year, he enlisted in the United States Navy in 1959, serving as an aviation electrician and attaining the rank of Petty Officer Second Class before his discharge in 1963.
Early business career
Following his naval service, Chambers worked as a copy‑machine repairman in Cambridge, Massachusetts. By age 22 he had founded A‑Copy America, a copier distribution company financed with parental loans. The firm grew to become one of the largest Minolta and Canon dealers in the United States, employing roughly 1,400 people across 36 offices. In 1983, Chambers sold A‑Copy America to Alco Standard Corporation for an estimated $80 million and remained with the acquiring firm for two additional years.
Automotive business
In 1985 Chambers purchased an Oldsmobile–Cadillac dealership in New London, Connecticut. Applying his management experience, he expanded the operation and eventually established The Herb Chambers Companies. The group now operates about 60 franchised dealerships representing 35 automotive brands, offering new and pre‑owned vehicles, financing, service, and collision repair. The company is headquartered in Burlington, Massachusetts, and serves customers throughout New England.
Wealth and recognition
Forbes listed Chambers among the 400 richest Americans in 2015, ranking 392nd with an estimated net worth of $1.8 billion. In May 2017 he received the New England Motor Press Association Executive of the Year Award for contributions to the automotive industry. Chambers is also noted for his collection of exotic automobiles, which has included models such as the McLaren F1, Bugatti Veyron, and several rare Ferraris.
Personal life
Chambers is married and has children. He remains actively involved in the strategic direction of his automotive enterprises and participates in charitable activities in the Boston region.