Dave Cantin, Chairman and CEO of the Dave Cantin Group, shares his expert insights on the current state of automotive M&A and how dealerships are approaching acquisitions in today's market. The conversation reveals how consolidation has evolved from quantity to quality, with buyers becoming increasingly strategic about which dealerships to acquire based on brand performance, geography, and potential return on investment.
• M&A activity remains strong with focus shifting from quantity to quality
• Consolidation continues with large publics and privates being more strategic about acquisitions
• Southeast and Sunbelt remain hottest markets, but California and other regions seeing renewed interest
• Successful acquisitions require preparation, confidentiality, and speed of execution
• Valuations driven by operational excellence, strong brands, and geographic location
• AI and data analytics transforming how buyers evaluate potential acquisitions
• Jump IQ platform provides comprehensive dealership valuation and performance benchmarking
• Many dealers don't know their true enterprise value despite it being their most valuable asset
• Stellantis dealers reporting significant improvement and renewed profitability
• Outlook for 2025-2026 remains positive with continued strategic consolidation
Reach out to the Dave Cantin Group to learn more about understanding your dealership's true value and creating a roadmap to enhance that value with their proprietary AI technology.
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