Fresno, California – In a significant move within the automotive retail sector, Mercedes-Benz of Fresno has been acquired by Alpha Auto Group (AAG), marking AAG’s entry into the California market and the addition of its first Mercedes-Benz franchise. The transaction, finalized with the expert advisory of The Presidio Group, signals a promising new chapter for the Mercedes-Benz of Fresno dealership and underscores AAG’s ambitious growth strategy across North America.
The sale, advised exclusively by The Presidio Group, an independent merchant banking firm specializing in automotive retail, saw Scott Biehl transition ownership of his esteemed Mercedes-Benz of Fresno dealership to AAG. For Biehl, finding the right buyer was paramount, particularly for his dedicated team in Fresno. “It was essential for us to find an outstanding buyer, someone we were comfortable with, especially for our team in Fresno,” Biehl stated. “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.” He further emphasized the seamless nature of the process facilitated by The Presidio Group, ensuring continuity for employees and the Fresno community under AAG’s leadership.
Alpha Auto Group’s acquisition of Mercedes-Benz of Fresno represents a strategic expansion, bringing the prestigious Mercedes-Benz brand into their diverse portfolio, which already includes Acura, BMW, Honda, Hyundai, Mini, Subaru, and Toyota dealerships. This purchase not only marks AAG’s first foray into the California automotive market but also aligns with Mercedes-Benz’s growing market share in the state. According to the California New Car Dealers Association, Mercedes-Benz’s market share in California increased to 4.2 percent through June 2022, up from 3.9 percent in 2021, highlighting the brand’s strong performance in the region. “We are thrilled to welcome our new Fresno teammates to the AAG family,” AAG announced. “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.”
The Presidio Group played a crucial role in bringing together Scott Biehl and Alpha Auto Group. George Karolis, President and Partner at Presidio, highlighted the firm’s client-centric 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, further emphasized their commitment to long-term client relationships, stating, “We treat people like we want to be treated. With Scott, like all others, we want clients for a lifetime. That’s our mindset and we feel we have achieved those goals here.”
Legal representation for the transaction included Richard Rasmussen of Lagerlof, LLP, serving as legal counsel for the seller, and J. Gregory Humphries of Shutts & Bowen, LLP, acting as legal counsel for the buyer. The Presidio Group, through its investment bank Presidio Merchant Partners LLC, provided exclusive M&A advisory services 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. With offices in Denver and Atlanta, The Presidio Group continues to be a leading advisor in the automotive retail and consumer mobility sectors.
Contact Information:
Brodie Cobb (720) 844-3151 [email protected]
George Karolis (678) 831-5520 [email protected]
