The Presidio Group’s automotive dealership valuation expertise and insights on the latest trends in mergers and acquisitions are informed, in part, by our work with many of the country’s biggest and most influential dealership groups. These relationships give us an insider’s view of how experienced and sophisticated operators value dealerships.
The dealership buy-sell market opened 2026 with a sharp rebound in transaction activity from year-earlier levels dampened by 2024’s election-year slowdown.
Given deal pace reported so far, The Presidio Group estimates transactions for the first quarter will jump 67% to 120, involving about 175 dealerships. If that holds with all closings tallied, it will mark a record first quarter since rigorous industry deal tracking began.
“The higher transaction volume we saw in the first quarter underscores how active this market remains,” said Presidio President George Karolis. “A lot of dealmaking is happening to start the year, and that reflects both strong buyer interest and more owners stepping forward to explore selling.”
Other key themes from the first quarter include:
- Acquisition demand still far exceeds supply. Even with more deals coming to market, the buyer pool outweighs the availability of top-tier stores.
- A cautious tone from buyers is emerging. The Iran war, weaker consumer confidence and softer earnings are prompting some buyers to apply greater scrutiny to potential deals.
- Transaction outcomes are diverging according to brand and market. Dealerships representing weaker brands or in slower‑growth markets face longer timelines and fewer bidders.
- Buyers continue their flight to quality. Luxury and top import stores, particularly in attractive markets, are drawing increasing interest and premium pricing.