DETROIT -

Following a two-year suspension of the annual series, General Motors revived its Dealer of the Year Award program and spotlighted the “best-of-the-best” in its dealer body during a ceremony on Wednesday night.

The 2010 Dealer of the Year Award honors were bestowed upon 50 Chevrolet, 16 Buick, 16 GMC and 20 Cadillac dealerships. Not only do these stores receive recognition, but they get a potential marketing boost as GM permits them to display these awards publicly and use them in advertising efforts.

These stores represent the automaker’s top 2 percent as far as sales, service and customer satisfaction. The program was launched in 2000.

“We are pleased to bring back the Dealer of the Year program after suspending it for two years," said Dan Akerson, GM chairman and chief executive officer. “This is another sign of our improving health. It’s great to be able to recognize our dealers’ achievements again since they play such a huge role in our success.”

GM North America president Mark Reuss added: “This is an accomplishment reserved for only a select few outstanding Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac dealerships and is a symbol of exceptional performance in delivering superior customer service while consistently growing sales.”

The complete list of winners includes: