Fresno, CA – Alpha Auto Group (AAG), a rapidly growing consolidator of automotive retailers across North America, has announced its acquisition of Mercedes-Benz of Fresno. This landmark purchase, advised exclusively by The Presidio Group LLC (“Presidio”), marks AAG’s first foray into the Californian market and the addition of the prestigious Mercedes-Benz brand to its expanding portfolio.
Mercedes-Benz of Fresno, formerly owned by Scott Biehl, will now join AAG’s impressive roster of 13 dealerships, which already includes renowned brands such as Acura, BMW, Honda, Hyundai, Mini, Subaru, and Toyota. For AAG, this acquisition represents a significant strategic move, bringing the coveted Mercedes-Benz brand under its umbrella for the first time and establishing a foothold in the dynamic California automotive landscape.
Scott Biehl, the former dealer principal of Mercedes-Benz of Fresno, expressed confidence in the transition. “It was essential for us to find an outstanding buyer, someone we were comfortable with, especially for our team in Fresno,” Biehl stated. He emphasized the pivotal role of The Presidio Group in facilitating a smooth and reassuring process. “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, “Working with The Presidio Group gave me a great deal of confidence that this transaction would be seamless. The commitment we’ve made to the employees, and the greater Fresno community, will continue under the leadership of AAG.”
AAG conveyed its enthusiasm for incorporating Mercedes-Benz of Fresno into their network and entering the California market. “We are thrilled to welcome our new Fresno teammates to the AAG family,” AAG announced in a statement. “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 timing of this acquisition is particularly strategic, given the robust performance of Mercedes-Benz in California. According to the California New Car Dealers Association, Mercedes-Benz market share in California increased to 4.2 percent through June 2022, up from 3.9 percent in 2021. This growth underscores the strength of the Mercedes-Benz brand in the region and the potential for further success under AAG’s leadership at Mercedes-Benz of Fresno.
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, echoed this sentiment, 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.”
The legal aspects of this transaction were handled by Richard Rasmussen of Lagerlof, LLP, representing the seller, and J. Gregory Humphries of Shutts & Bowen, LLP, serving as legal counsel to the buyer. The Presidio Group, through its investment bank Presidio Merchant Partners LLC, acted as the exclusive M&A advisor to Scott Biehl.
About The Presidio Group LLC
Founded in 1998, The Presidio Group LLC is a leading independent merchant banking firm specializing in mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, and investments within the automotive retail and consumer mobility sectors. The firm has built a strong reputation on prioritizing client interests, completing over 210 transactions valued at more than $14 billion. The Presidio Group also publishes Where the Rubber Meets the Road, a respected source of insights into the automotive retail landscape and M&A environment. With offices in Denver and Atlanta, The Presidio Group continues to be a trusted advisor in the automotive industry. Presidio Merchant Partners LLC is a subsidiary of The Presidio Group LLC, and is a member of FINRA and SIPC. For further details, please visit www.thepresidiogroup.com.
Contact:
Brodie Cobb (720) 844-3151 [email protected]
George Karolis (678) 831-5520 [email protected]
