Fresno, California – Alpha Auto Group (AAG), a prominent and rapidly expanding automotive retailer in North America, has marked a significant milestone by acquiring Mercedes-Benz of Fresno. This acquisition, advised exclusively by The Presidio Group LLC, a leading merchant banking firm in the automotive retail and consumer mobility sectors, represents AAG’s strategic entry into the California market and its first foray into the Mercedes-Benz brand.
For Mercedes-Benz of Fresno, this transition signifies a continuation of excellence and commitment to the Fresno community. Scott Biehl, the former dealer principal, 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 emphasized the seamless nature of the transaction facilitated by The Presidio Group, ensuring that the dealership’s dedication to employees and the Fresno community will persist under AAG’s leadership.
AAG’s enthusiasm for incorporating Mercedes-Benz and entering the California market is evident. California’s robust automotive market, where Mercedes-Benz market share has grown to 4.2 percent through June 2022, compared to 3.9 percent in the previous year, presents a valuable opportunity for AAG. In a public statement, AAG conveyed their excitement about welcoming the Fresno team to their family, noting, “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 strategically positions Mercedes-Benz of Fresno within AAG’s growing network of dealerships, which already includes prestigious brands such as Acura, BMW, Honda, Hyundai, Mini, Subaru, and Toyota across 13 locations.
The Presidio Group played a crucial role in orchestrating this successful transaction. George Karolis, President and Partner at 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 the firm’s commitment to long-term client relationships and achieving optimal outcomes for all parties involved. “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 counsel for the transaction included Richard Rasmussen of Lagerlof, LLP, representing the seller, and J. Gregory Humphries of Shutts & Bowen, LLP, representing the buyer. The Presidio Group’s advisory services were delivered through its investment bank, Presidio Merchant Partners LLC.
About The Presidio Group LLC
Founded in 1998, The Presidio Group LLC is dedicated to prioritizing client interests. This philosophy has established the firm as a trusted advisor in the automotive retail sector, completing over 210 transactions totaling more than $14 billion. The Presidio Group also publishes Where the Rubber Meets the Road, a respected resource for insights into the automotive retail landscape and M&A activity. Headquartered in Denver and Atlanta, Presidio Merchant Partners LLC is a subsidiary of The Presidio Group LLC, and is a member of FINRA and SIPC. More information is available at www.thepresidiogroup.com.
Contact Information
Brodie Cobb (720) 844-3151 [email protected]
George Karolis (678) 831-5520 [email protected]
