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 first venture into the California market and its inaugural Mercedes-Benz dealership. The transaction, finalized recently, was exclusively advised by The Presidio Group, a leading merchant banking firm specializing in automotive retail. This acquisition signals a strategic expansion for AAG and promises continued excellence for Mercedes-Benz customers in the Fresno region.
Scott Biehl, the former dealer principal of Mercedes-Benz of Fresno, expressed confidence in the transition, 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.” He further added, “The commitment we’ve made to the employees, and the greater Fresno community, will continue under the leadership of AAG,” highlighting the smooth transition and shared values.
Alpha Auto Group, already a substantial player in North American automotive retail with dealerships spanning Acura, BMW, Honda, Hyundai, Mini, Subaru, and Toyota, welcomes Mercedes-Benz to its portfolio. AAG stated, “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 aligns with Mercedes-Benz’s growing market share in California, which reached 4.2 percent through June 2022, up from 3.9 percent in 2021, according to the California New Car Dealers Association. This upward trend in California indicates a strong market for luxury vehicles like Mercedes-Benz, making Fresno a valuable location for AAG’s expansion.
The Presidio Group played a crucial role in facilitating this deal. George Karolis, President and Partner at Presidio, commented, “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 Presidio Group, emphasized their client-centric approach, “With Scott, like all others, we want clients for a lifetime. That’s our mindset and we feel we have achieved those goals here.” This successful transaction underscores Presidio Group’s expertise in automotive dealership mergers and acquisitions and their commitment to fostering beneficial partnerships.
The legal aspects of the sale were handled by Richard Rasmussen of Lagerlof, LLP, representing the seller, and J. Gregory Humphries of Shutts & Bowen, LLP, representing the buyer. Through its investment bank, Presidio Merchant Partners LLC, The Presidio Group provided exclusive M&A advisory services to Scott Biehl.
This acquisition marks a new chapter for Mercedes-Benz of Fresno and reinforces Alpha Auto Group’s growing presence in the luxury automotive market. Customers in Fresno can anticipate continued high-quality service and access to the esteemed Mercedes-Benz brand under the new ownership.
