The automotive landscape in Washington County has shifted as John Sisson Motors Inc., a dealership with a strong presence for approximately five decades, has been taken over by Faisal and Ali Ahmed, a father-son partnership based in Florida. This acquisition marks a significant change for the local business, though current operations are expected to continue smoothly under the new ownership.
Jimmy Ramirez, the general manager at John Sisson Motors, has confirmed the change in ownership, stating that the Ahmeds are not planning any immediate alterations to the dealership’s operations. This news brings reassurance to both employees and long-time customers of John Sisson Mercedes and Nissan. The Ahmeds are experienced in the automotive retail sector, owning multiple dealerships in Florida and recently expanding their portfolio with the purchase of a Nissan dealership in the Baltimore area in June. Their investment in John Sisson Motors signals their continued growth and confidence in the automotive market.
John Sisson Motors has been a cornerstone of the Washington County automotive scene, prominently featuring both Mercedes-Benz and Nissan franchises alongside a used car division. While specific details of the business sale remain undisclosed, public records indicate a substantial real estate transaction linked to the dealership. Two properties associated with John Sisson Motors, located at 470 and 480 Washington Road in South Strabane, were acquired by Washington APA RE LLC for a total of over $18.7 million. This significant property transaction underscores the value and scale of the John Sisson Mercedes and Nissan operation.
This acquisition is part of a broader trend within the automotive dealership industry. For many years, the Pittsburgh region remained relatively untouched by the mergers and acquisitions wave impacting dealerships nationwide. However, a growing number of family-owned dealerships, some with histories spanning decades, are now facing succession challenges, leading to consolidation. Notable acquisitions in the region include Lithia Motors Inc.’s purchase of Cranberry-based Baierl Auto Group and parts of Monroeville-based Day Automotive Group. Kenny Ross Auto Group also saw a significant portion of its business acquired by GPB Capital Holdings LLC, with subsequent sales to #1 Cochran.
The acquisition of John Sisson Mercedes and Nissan represents the latest chapter in this evolving automotive retail environment. As the industry continues to consolidate, the established reputation of John Sisson Mercedes, combined with the new ownership’s experience, positions the dealership for continued success in the Washington County market. Customers can expect the same level of service and vehicle selection they have come to rely on from this long-standing local business under its new leadership.
