Significant Acquisition in the Automotive Industry
In a noteworthy development in the automotive sector, Chris Infantino, Director at Tim Lamb Group—the leading sales and acquisitions firm for auto dealerships in North America—has successfully brokered the sale of Knox Ford to Don Franklin Automotive Group. This decision came after the previous owner, Gary Haupt, sought to streamline his business, deciding to concentrate on his larger Ford dealership nearby.
The Sale Process and Transition
The transition was facilitated seamlessly with the closure of the sale occurring shortly after discussions began. The dealership has now been rebranded as Don Franklin Radcliff Ford, strategically located to enhance accessibility for local customers and to solidify the presence of Don Franklin Automotive Group in the area.
A Rich History of Ownership
Gary Haupt, who owned Knox Ford for over two decades, made this sale with careful consideration. His longstanding reputation for operational excellence was a vital factor in choosing to work with Don Franklin Automotive Group. This acquisition allows them to expand their successful Ford operations, complementing existing dealerships in Kentucky.
Don Franklin Automotive Group: A Growing Legacy
With the addition of Don Franklin Radcliff Ford, Don Franklin Automotive Group now operates a total of 28 dealerships. This diverse portfolio includes various brands such as Lincoln, Chevrolet, and Toyota, among others. Eddie Franklin, President of the group, expressed excitement about this acquisition, noting, “Finding businesses like Knox Ford that have a solid operational history is always a great fit for our expansion plans.”
Employee Retention Highlights
A significant aspect of this acquisition is the commitment to retain the existing employees of Knox Ford, ensuring the continuation of excellent service and community relations. This move not only reflects the group's philosophy but also aims to create stability in the workforce during a period of transition.
Chris Infantino's Expertise
Before joining Tim Lamb Group, Chris Infantino had a notable tenure at Ford Motor Company, where he developed invaluable relationships with key industry players such as Gary Haupt and Eddie Franklin. His in-depth understanding of the automotive market and his reputation as a trustworthy broker facilitated a smooth transaction process, highlighted by trust and mutual respect between both parties.
The Importance of Dealer Relationships
Both Haupt and Franklin lauded Infantino for his professionalism, emphasizing that his expertise contributed significantly to the successful sale. Gary Haupt remarked that having collaborated with Chris for over two decades made him an ideal choice to handle this important transition, reinforcing their collective commitment to the industry.
About Tim Lamb Group
Established in 2006, Tim Lamb Group has positioned itself as a formidable force in the auto dealership sales and acquisition landscape. With a robust team of regional directors, they manage billions of dollars in transactions annually, helping dealers across the United States and Canada. Their extensive experience in both factory management and retail dealership operations enables them to effectively address various dealership needs and challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the sale of Knox Ford?
The sale was motivated by owner Gary Haupt's decision to simplify his portfolio and focus on a larger Ford dealership.
Who facilitated the transaction?
Chris Infantino from Tim Lamb Group played a crucial role in brokering the sale.
What is the new name of Knox Ford?
The dealership has been rebranded as Don Franklin Radcliff Ford.
How many dealerships does Don Franklin Automotive Group now operate?
With the acquisition, Don Franklin Automotive Group operates a total of 28 dealerships across Central Kentucky.
Will existing employees remain after the sale?
Yes, Don Franklin Automotive Group has committed to retaining all employees from Knox Ford.
