Swickard Auto Group Sells Mercedes-Benz of South Austin
Group 1 Automotive, a publicly traded auto retailer operating 263 dealerships globally, has bought Mercedes-Benz of South Austin in a sale facilitated by Haig Partners. The dealership, previously owned by Jeff Swickard of Swickard Auto Group, was sold as part of a strategic decision to concentrate business efforts in markets such as California, Washington, and Hawaii. It also recently ranked 30th in the Automotive News Top 150 Dealership Groups report.
“Mercedes-Benz is one of the premier brands in the automotive industry, and Austin remains one of the most dynamic markets in the country,” Jeff Swickard said. “We congratulate Group 1 on their newest acquisition and are confident they will do very well with this dealership. We are proud of the legacy we built in South Austin and grateful to the team and community that supported us there.”
This transaction further cements Texas’s reputation as a lucrative automotive market. It appeals to buyers due to its high population growth and business-friendly environment. Additionally, the deal aligns with Mercedes-Benz USA’s preference for multi-store ownership within the same market. Haig Partners, with experience in handling such acquisitions, pointed to the high demand for top-tier brands like Mercedes-Benz, making this a noteworthy strategic deal for all parties involved. The acquisition reinforces Group 1’s portfolio in the Austin area, complementing their existing Mercedes-Benz of Georgetown dealership.
Toyota of Warren Joins Rafih Auto Group
The Rafih Auto Group has acquired Toyota of Warren in Warren, Ohio in a sale brokered by the Tim Lamb Group. This milestone transaction marks the 120th dealership sold in Ohio by the firm. The sale was personally managed by Tim Lamb, President and Director of the Northeast Region. The purchase is Rafih Auto Group’s first Toyota dealership in the U.S., expanding its portfolio, which includes 30 global automotive brands across 27 dealerships in Canada and the U.S. The dealership includes a state-of-the-art facility with a showroom, service center, and 18 service stalls. Toyota of Warren uses only certified OEM Toyota parts ensuring continued high-quality service even under new ownership.
For sellers Jim Whetstone, Joseph Marzullo, and Tim Marburger of Jim Whetstone Auto Group, the transaction allows them to concentrate on their remaining dealerships in Ohio and New York. With this acquisition, Rafih Auto Group strengthens its presence in the Ohio market. It has guaranteed staff retention to maintain continuity and provide exceptional service to the community.
Multi-Franchise Deal Sees Fullerton Auto Group Acquired by Performance Auto Group
Fullerton Auto Group based in Somerville, New Jersey, has been sold to Performance Auto Group in a deal managed by Haig Partners. The transaction includes a list of high-profile franchises, including Ford, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, and Maserati all situated in a high traffic area of New Jersey.
“Fullerton Auto Group represented a unique opportunity in a prime market and an iconic location along Route 22—one of New Jersey’s most well-known and heavily traveled commercial corridors,” said John Davis, Managing Director with Haig Partners. “My colleague Derek Garber and I worked diligently to ensure a smooth process from start to finish.”
This sale adds to Haig Partners’ total in New Jersey, marking their 24th dealership transaction in the state. Legal and accounting support came from Eric Pridgen of Underwood & Roberts representing the seller and Jen Moylan of Withum CPA. Joseph S. Aboyoun and Will Salerno of Fox Rothschild represented the buyer.
For Performance Auto Group the move further solidifies their footprint in the region. The move presents growth opportunities for both the buyer and the franchise brands involved.
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