It’s been a difficult start to the calendar year for America’s Car-Mart, which this week announced the completion of the second phase of its previously announced SG&A cost control strategy through “footprint optimization.”

The plan includes the consolidation of 13 locations into higher-performing nearby dealerships. This realignment follows five store consolidations that were completed in November as part of the first phase.

Of those 18 eliminated locations, three of the stores were in Alabama, three in Oklahoma, three in Kentucky, one each in Georgia and Tennessee, two in Texas and five in Arkansas.

“Our footprint optimization strategy reflects our commitment to operational excellence and disciplined capital allocation,” Car-Mart president and chief executive officer Doug Campbell said. “By concentrating resources in our highest-performing markets, we are positioning Car-Mart to deliver improved returns while maintaining the exceptional customer experience that defines our brand.

“The flexibility provided by our new capital structure enables us to make these strategic decisions with confidence,” Campbell continued.

Car-Mart said customers previously served by consolidated locations will continue to receive service at nearby dealerships, ensuring uninterrupted access to sales, service, and collections related activities.

Management added these actions are part of the company’s ongoing efforts to evolve its operating model to better serve customers and communities over the long term.

When Car-Mart discussed the first five store closures as part of highlighting the performance of the company during the second quarter of its fiscal year, the closures were projected to save $1 million in fiscal 2026 and $2 million annually.

“These decisions are never easy, and we approach them with deep respect for our associates, our customers, and the communities we serve,” Campbell said. “By realigning our footprint, we can operate more efficiently while continuing to provide the high level of service our customers expect.

“These actions allow us to continue modernizing our business, better utilize our inventory and teams, and strengthen performance at our remaining locations. We believe this approach positions Car-Mart to remain a strong, dependable presence in the communities we serve for years to come,” he went on to say.