Many years ago, my parents bought every car they had over a 15 year period from the same salesman - even when he changed dealerships, and then when he changed brands, Rover to Ford.
One memorable time, he personally delivered our brand new L reg Mini Cooper and picked up our part-ex Metro - this was a round trip of around 60 miles.
Yes he was a salesman, but he also became a family friend.
Sadly he passed before his time, due to cancer.
I can't imagine becoming friends with the dealers I meet today. Although similarly for the car service, I will take it 20 miles to the small town dealer, rather than 5 miles to the big city one. The customer service experience is light years apart!