Dealer Mega-Deal, Ford Skunkworks Update, Buc-ee’s Heads West

The Automotive Troublemaker w/ Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier

Welcome to Wednesday as we talk about the latest mega acquisition deal. We also cover the latest on Ford’s internal skunkworks EV project as well as a big move west for gas-station chain Buc-ee’s.

• Following an initial announcement of a deal back in January, Holman expanded its auto retail empire by closing on the acquisition of Leith Automotive Group, a move that nearly doubles Holman's dealership count.
  • This strategic acquisition includes over 20 franchised dealerships across North Carolina, marking the largest buy in Holman's century-long history.
  • The deal, which also brings 1,900 new employees to Holman, bringing their total employee count to 4500 while introducing 13 new brands to its portfolio
  • The Leith name will remain on the acquired stores
  • Chris Conroy, Holman CEO: "This acquisition...puts our business in a position to win for the next 100 years."
  • Prior to the acquisition, Leith was the first Dealer to partner with Vietnamese EV maker Vinfast
• Ford is gearing up to counter the influx of affordable Chinese EVs with its own low-cost electric platform with new information surfacing since their announcement last month of an internal skunkworks project to develop low cost EVs quickly
  • Set to debut in 2026, this initiative will introduce three new EV models: a compact SUV, a small truck, and possibly a ride-hail service vehicle, starting at $25,000.
  • The vehicles will be powered by cost-effective lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries, are intended to accelerate Ford's strategic shift towards making profitable, accessible EVs within a year of their launch, contrasting sharply with its previous focus on trucks and SUVs
  • Jim Farley, Ford CEO said "The ultimate competition is going to be the affordable Tesla and the Chinese [automakers]."
• The first Colorado Buc-ee's has opened in Johnstown, CO bringing its renowned travel center experience, known for pristine restrooms and freshly prepared food, the facility offers an array of amenities, including a brisket west of Texas.
  • This new location spans 74,000 square feet and features 116 fuel pumps, staffed by over 275 employees to maintain 24/7 operations.
  • Coloradans, previously unfamiliar with Buc-ee's, ventured for the first time, intrigued by its offerings as fans eagerly lined up outside the front doors in the early hours of the morning, cheering as doors opened at 6 a.m.
  • Families like the Cowins’, combined their spring break outing with exploring Buc-ee's vast array of amenities and hype, grabbing souvenir t shirts as soon as they entered
  • Josh Smith, director of operations for Buc-ee’s said, “We want to remember that we’re here to offer that safe environment for the family travelers. We want them to know that they’re going to be comfortable taking their kids. Mom can take the kids into the restroom and not have to worry about anything. It’s safe. Everybody in the car is going to be able to get something that they want without having to make five different stops.”

Hosts: Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier
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