Automotive Industry News & Insights

ESOPs Are an Exit Alternative

It’s estimated that 70% of private businesses in the U.S. never have a successful exit. While overall M&A activity among tire retailers, wholesalers and commercial tire dealerships remains active but noticeably slower, it’s harder for wholesalers and commercial tire dealerships to have a sale event as compared with retailers.

The reasons for this have to …

Building Wealth Over Time: A Roadmap For Commercial Dealers

In the commercial tire business, the quest for profitability can sometimes feel like a struggle. Commercial tire dealers tirelessly serve their demanding customers, often operating on challenging margins. If you find yourself in this position, there are some smart strategies that can help you build wealth over time. In this column, I’ll be exploring real …

FOCUS Investment Banking Represents Auto Body Innovations, Inc. in its sale to Caliber Collision

Washington, DC, (October 19, 2023) – FOCUS Investment Banking (“FOCUS”), a national middle market investment banking firm providing merger, acquisition, divestiture, and corporate finance services, announced today that Auto Body Innovations (ABI), with locations in Upper Marlboro and Owings, Maryland, has been acquired by Caliber Collision. FOCUS represented Auto Body Innovations in this transaction.

The Collision Vision(aries): Six Months into The Collision Vision Podcast

In the realm of collision repair, the past six months have marked a compelling journey for The Collision Vision. As the host of Autobody News' weekly podcast dedicated to the business side of the collision repair industry, I've had the distinct privilege of connecting with industry trailblazers who have cast a penetrating light on the …

Private Equity Firms in the Tire Industry: What Sellers Should Be Aware Of

The tire industry has experienced a surge in interest from private equity firms seeking to acquire tire dealerships. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon:

  • Profit Potential: Private equity firms are attracted to the tire industry due to its resilience and steady profitability. As tires are consumable goods, there is a consistent demand for replacements and

Interview with Rick Thomas CEO and Chief Outdoor Enthusiast of FOCUS

As a member of our automotive aftermarket team, Rick Thomas, FOCUS CEO, has led our firm’s expansion into overlanding by helping several companies raise capital by selling all or parts of their businesses. As an overlanding enthusiast himself, Rick identified overlanding as a growth category for our firm so internally we have branded him as our ‘COE - Chief Outdoor Enthusiast’. In a recent interview, Rick discusses his personal connection to overlanding and how FOCUS helps firms in the industry.

Guaranty Chevrolet

Guaranty Chevrolet, a family-owned Chevrolet dealer in Junction City, Oregon, has been acquired by CFO Auto Group, Inc. This case study highlights the unique process of this transaction.