Buy‑sell market stays busy despite tariff noise

23

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.

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.​