Fresno, California – Alpha Auto Group (AAG), a rapidly expanding automotive retailer in North America, has announced its acquisition of Mercedes-Benz of Fresno. This marks AAG’s first venture into the California market and also represents its inaugural Mercedes-Benz dealership, adding to their portfolio of brands including Acura, BMW, and more. The transaction was exclusively advised by The Presidio Group LLC, a merchant banking firm specializing in the automotive retail and consumer mobility sectors.
Scott Biehl, the former dealer principal of Mercedes-Benz of Fresno, expressed confidence in the acquisition, stating, “It was essential for us to find an outstanding buyer, someone we were comfortable with, especially for our team in Fresno. Knowing The Presidio Group would lead this effort put everyone at ease. They accomplished all of our goals. Their experience and professionalism is second to none.” Biehl further added that working with The Presidio Group instilled “a great deal of confidence that this transaction would be seamless,” ensuring continuity for employees and the Fresno community.
AAG conveyed enthusiasm about incorporating Mercedes-Benz and expanding into California, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome our new Fresno teammates to the AAG family. Adding Mercedes-Benz to our lineup has long been a goal of ours. We are excited to add the dynamic California market to our portfolio. It is a strategic addition and building block for our growth. We pledge to uphold the high standard that Scott and his colleagues set in Fresno.” This acquisition comes at a time when Mercedes-Benz is experiencing growth in California, with its market share increasing to 4.2 percent through June 2022, compared to 3.9 percent in the previous year, according to the California New Car Dealers Association.
George Karolis, President and Partner of Presidio, highlighted the firm’s client-focused approach: “Presidio’s clients return to us because we understand their goals. We have a longstanding relationship with Scott Biehl, so when we matched him and AAG, we knew both parties would emerge as winners.” Brodie Cobb, Founder and CEO of The Presidio Group, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing long-term client relationships and a commitment to treating clients with respect.
Legal representation for the seller was provided by Richard Rasmussen of Lagerlof, LLP, while J. Gregory Humphries of Shutts & Bowen, LLP, served as legal counsel for the buyer. The Presidio Group’s investment bank, Presidio Merchant Partners LLC, acted as the exclusive M&A advisor to Scott Biehl.
Founded in 1998, The Presidio Group has built a reputation on prioritizing client interests, completing over 210 transactions worth more than $14 billion. They are also known for publishing Where the Rubber Meets the Road, a respected source of insights into the automotive retail landscape.
This acquisition signals a significant development in the automotive retail sector, bringing together Mercedes-Benz of Fresno and Alpha Auto Group, promising continued excellence and growth in the Fresno market.
