The dealership buy-sell market’s active start to 2026 continued with two more multiple-store transactions announced this week.

Pierce Automotive Group has acquired Lexus Carlsbad and Lexus Escondido in Southern California from Halo Motor Group.

“This is a long-term commitment where our priority is continuity for employees and customers, and delivering an exceptional Lexus ownership experience from day one,” Pierce Automotive president Mitch Pierce said. “We are aligned with the Lexus brand, proud of the history of these dealerships and excited to build on that foundation with integrity and purpose, values and leadership philosophy established by the late Judy Jones-Cone, whose influence remains deeply woven into the way we approach our business.”

Jones-Cone, who died in 2024, took over operations of the dealerships in 1996 following the death of her husband Lou Jones, founder of the stores and one of the nation’s first Lexus dealers.

Under Jones-Cone’s leadership, Lexus Carlsbad earned the Elite of Lexus award more times than any dealership in San Diego County, which Pierce Automotive said reflects “a longstanding commitment to customer satisfaction and the ownership experience.”

Lexus Escondido’s facility, designed to serve customers at scale, includes a dedicated delivery experience and on-site amenities. The property also includes Vintana Restaurant, an established destination in North County.

Pierce Automotive said it has no immediate plans to make changes in the dealerships’ management, staff or names.

The acquisition marks a return to California for Pierce Automotive, which is a partner in the Denver-based Elway Automotive Group, which operates six locations in Colorado.

Boguslavskiy adds NH dealerships as Gillett exits the state

Automotive entrepreneur Artem Boguslavskiy has acquired five dealerships in New Hampshire from Alex Gillett of Summit Automotive Partners, according to Pinnacle Mergers and Acquisitions, which represented the seller.

The deal includes Berlin City Toyota, Berlin City Honda, Berlin City Nissan, Berlin City Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram and Berlin City Chevrolet GMC, all grouped together in Gorham, N.H.

Boguslavskiy, who owns multiple dealerships in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, said he plans to rename the dealerships soon.

“The Berlin City stores are an important addition to our group of dealerships,” he said.

The sale marks Summit’s exit from New Hampshire. The company’s Berlin City Auto Group continues to operate five locations in Maine and Vermont.

Chicago Toyota store announced upcoming expansion, renovation

A Chicago dealership announced plans for a major facility expansion and complete renovation of its current dealership.

Toyota on Western said the rebuild reinforces its “long-term commitment to delivering an elevated customer experience” and meeting growing demand for sales and service.

The project will add some 4,000 square feet to the current facility to accommodate a larger vehicle inventory as well as four new service lifts to increase service capacity and improve turnaround times.

Construction is scheduled to begin in the spring and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

“This community deserves a modern facility that can support more vehicles, faster service and a better overall experience,” dealership president Shawn Kohli said. “This renovation allows us to grow with our customers and deliver the dealership our community needs and deserves.”