Dealership M&A cooled modestly early in the year, but advisory firms continue to call for a high transaction count in 2025, citing healthy earnings and disciplined floorplan management. Higher rates and tariff headlines have extended diligence timelines, yet blue‑sky values for top franchises remain resilient.
CD-A3-2
Multi‑store platforms with strong used‑car engines and service absorption north of 80% are drawing premium multiples. Sellers with modernized facilities and digital sales processes see a measurable lift in offers, especially in Sun Belt growth markets where migration trends drive vehicle demand.
Expect more pairing and pruning: groups are exiting subscale or off‑strategy points while bulking up in brands and geos where they have a moat.
