Florida-based Morgan Automotive Group has expanded in its home state.

The retailer purchased Hodges Mazda of the Avenues in Jacksonville and Hodges Mazda of St. Augustine from brothers David and Dan Hodges, according to Haig Partners, which advised the sellers.

David Hodges, the principal owner of the stores, and Dan Hodges, his minority partner, are exiting the auto retail business. They will focus on their portfolio of non-automotive business ventures, Haig said in a news release.

David Hodges was CEO of Scott-McRae Automotive Group in Jacksonville before launching Hodges Mazda of Jacksonville and later opening the St. Augustine, which debuted in November.

“We are proud to have advised David and Dan Hodges on this important transaction,” said Kevin Nill, managing director at Haig Partners, in a news release. “The Hodges family built a stellar reputation as Mazda dealers and were thoughtful about the timing and strategic fit of this sale.

“They found the ideal buyer in Morgan Automotive Group, which continues to expand its footprint across Florida. As we move into the second half of 2025, buyer demand remains exceptionally strong, especially in desirable geographic markets and for top-performing franchises,” Nill said. “For dealers who have been waiting to see how macroeconomic trends like tariffs and interest rates would unfold, now may be the most opportune time we’ve seen in years to explore a sale.”

In the release, David Hodges said: “It has been an honor and a privilege to steward our two Mazda franchises over the last decade. After much prayer and consideration, over the past year, it became evident that I was being led to move to the next chapter and exit the automotive business after 35 years. This was not a decision I took lightly as I am so bullish on the Mazda brand. However, it was clear and evident to me that God was moving me in a different direction.

“I wish nothing but the best to Larry Morgan and his son Brett, the new owners of our dealerships. They are a large group with immense resources but remain a family business. Kevin Nill from Haig Partners is a friend who I have known for almost the entirety of my time in automotive retail. His professionalism and steady hand were such a blessing to have as we moved through this transaction.”

Morgan Automotive Group chairman Larry Morgan added: “We’re honored to continue the legacy that David and Dan Hodges have built at Hodges Mazda.

“I’ve known David for many years, and throughout this process, he demonstrated the same integrity and professionalism that have defined his career. We’re grateful that he and Dan are entrusting us with their business, and we look forward to building on their success while continuing to serve the Jacksonville and St. Augustine communities.”