AutoNation Expands Footprint in Colorado
AutoNation has acquired Groove Ford and Groove Mazda, rebranded to now operate under the names AutoNation Ford Arapahoe and AutoNation Mazda Arapahoe.
In 2024, the stores sold nearly 5,000 new and used vehicles with approximately $219M in annual revenue. Both stores are located in Englewood, CO, and mark the first AutoNation Mazda and second AutoNation Ford in the state. AutoNation’s footprint in Colorado includes 13 domestic, six import, and three AutoNation USA dealerships concentrated in the greater Denver area.
“These acquisitions build on our strategy to add density into markets where we already have a presence,” said Mike Manley, Chief Executive Officer at AutoNation in a statement. “It allows us to rapidly bring significant scale synergies to the new dealerships, expanding on the current success of these stores and delivering strong returns to our shareholders.”
Pinnacle Mergers & Acquisitions officials, who represented the buyer in this acquisition, noted the transaction reflects continued consolidation in the U.S. auto retail space as large dealer groups expand into key regional markets to meet shifting consumer demand and market dynamics. With dealership valuations remaining strong and buyer interest high, the Denver metro area remains one of the most active regions in the country for automotive M&A activity.
“We are proud to once again support a leading national group in strengthening their presence in Colorado,” said Bill Scrivner, founder and CEO of Pinnacle Mergers & Acquisitions. “Our long-standing relationships, deep market experience, and commitment to our client’s goals remain the foundation of every deal we complete.”
Riser Family Sells CDJR-F Dealership in Arkansas
The Riser family has sold its Riser Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-RAM FIAT in Hot Springs, AR, to Chris Crain and Heath Campbell in a deal brokered by Haig Partners. The dealership has been renamed Campbell Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT.
The transaction marks a strategic move for both parties, as the Riser family identified an opportune time to divest this dealership. At the same time, Crain and Campbell continue expanding their presence in the Arkansas market. The Riser family has no plans to sell any other dealerships.
The decision to sell by the Risers was to ensure the dealership transitioned to new owners with deep local ties and a commitment to customer and employee satisfaction. “Chris Crain and Heath Campbell [are] individuals we’ve known and respected for years. We’re confident that the dealership will continue to thrive under their leadership,” said Paul Riser.
The buyers are well-known dealership operators in Arkansas with a history of successful acquisitions and a deep understanding of the Hot Springs market. Their long-standing relationship with the Riser family made this a natural fit, ensuring continuity for customers and employees alike.
Crain expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, sharing, “I want to thank Paul Riser and his family for entrusting us with this dealership. The Riser name carries a legacy of excellence in Hot Springs, and we look forward to building upon that foundation while continuing to serve this great community.”
“The sale of Riser CDJR-F also serves as a testament to the fact that Stellantis remains a brand in which buyers and investors continue to see solid long-term value,” noted John Davis, Managing Director at Haig Partners, who advised on the sale. “Many motivated buyers are still looking for the right opportunities and providing sellers with considerable offers.”
Two Ford Dealerships Sold in the Southeast
Two deals to sell Ford dealerships in the southeast were brokered by Dealer Solutions Mergers and Acquisitions (DSMA).
Tammy Raciborski and Bob Winiarczyk sold the Bremen, GA Pioneer Ford dealership to Austin Pugmire of Pugmire Automotive Group that has been rebranded as Pugmire Ford of Bremen. At the same time, Havana Ford in Florida transitioned to new ownership from former owner and president Ken Ball.
These transactions reflect a growing trend of strategic expansion and consolidation among Ford dealers in the Southeastern United States, where shifting market dynamics and strong consumer demand continue to drive dealership activity.
“The Southeast continues to be incredibly active for acquisitions, where a perfect storm of economic growth, consumer demand, and a limited number of dealerships available for purchase is driving strong market demand,” said Andy Church, VP of the Eastern Region for DSMA. “As a result, sellers are receiving excellent value for their businesses.”
