America’s Auto Auction has purchased KCI Kansas City from the McConkey Auction Group, stretching its auction count to 23.

The transaction, which was effective Nov. 1, is its second major purchase this year and continues a long line of expansion for the auction company.

In March, America's Auto Auction bought Lynnway Auto Auction. It purchased West Michigan Auto Auction and Interstate 94 Vehicle Auction in April 2017, following its purchase of Auction Broadcasting Co. in January of that year. 

America's Auto Auction said it is the nation's third-largest auction company.

As far as the most recent purchase, KCI opened in 1978 in Elwood, Kan. It moved to a facility near the Kansas City International Airport some 30 years later and was purchased by Bob McConkey, who owns the McConkey Auction Group.

The auction has been in construction mode, adding acres of paving throughout the years, opening a reconditioning center in 2010 and building a new administration building last year.  

“We are thrilled to welcome KCI Kansas City to the America’s Auto Auction family and are honored that Bob McConkey and Doug Doll chose America’s to carry forward the legacy that they have built with the team at the auction,” America’s Auto Auction president and chief executive officer Ben Lange said in a news release. 

“Throughout our history, America’s Auto Auction has grown through acquisition, identifying outstanding auto auction operations with proven track records, that are successful and high-performing in their markets, with superior facilities and cutting-edge technology,” Lange said. “Certainly, KCI Kansas City fits that profile, but even more important are the people who make up the auction team, who are responsible for driving the auction’s success.

“We are tremendously fortunate to retain the KCI auction team, headed by Doug Doll, general manager; Steve Goettling, assistant general manager; Jennifer Leocardi, sales manager; and Scot Gallagher, operations manager,” he said.

“Not only are we happy to expand our national footprint with the addition of this outstanding auction facility in an important Midwest market, but we have gained one of the most respected and committed auction teams in the industry, known for its responsiveness and professionalism.”

KCI was named the NAAA Western Auction of the Year in 2016 and 2018. It was also among Auto Remarketing’s Best Auto Auctions to Work For in 2017,

The auction also hosts the annual Guitar and Cars Sale promotional event, which it plans to continue.

“I am well-acquainted with Ben Lange and have admired America’s operations as it has expanded over the years,” McConkey said in a news release. “KCI Kansas City is a great fit for America’s, sharing the same vision for superior service and the importance of nurturing strong, unwavering relationships with customers.

“America’s and KCI have a shared technology, both operating on the Auction Edge technology platforms, which will greatly enhance the transition for both the auction’s commercial accounts and its new and used car dealers,” he said. “I know that both KCI and its customers will continue to thrive under the America’s banner.”

The auctions are also both clients of TPC Management Co.