AutoNation has increased both its footprint in the Northwest as well as the number of its approved vendors, with the retailer adding the dealer-direct marketplace DealersLink to that roster. 

Starting with its store purchases, AutoNation announced Wednesday it has signed agreements to acquire Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and Volvo stores in the Seattle-Bellevue market from Barrier Motors.  

The move will ramp up AutoNation’s Washington sales, as the stores bring in an approximate annual revenue of $355 million, with retail sales of approximately 5,500 new- and used-vehicle units.

This transaction brings AutoNation’s Washington store count to 22 franchises, including 13 franchises in the Seattle-Bellevue market. 

Mike Jackson, AutoNation's chairman and chief executive officer, stated, "We are pleased to be adding the Barrier Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and Volvo stores to our Seattle-Bellevue platform.  The Barrier stores have a great reputation in the market.  The franchises are in attractive automotive retail locations and the facilities are first class." 

Jackson added, "The acquisition will greatly enhance our brand mix in Seattle-Bellevue, positioning us with outstanding premium luxury offerings in the market, where we already represent BMW.  The product cycles from Audi, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche are some of the most exciting in the industry.  We also look forward to welcoming the Barrier customers and over 300 associates into the AutoNation family."

The transactions are subject to customary terms and conditions, including manufacturer approval, and are expected to close in the fourth quarter 2014, the company said.

Jimmy Barrier, president and CEO of Barrier Motors, said, "I am extremely pleased to have worked with senior leadership of AutoNation to put this transaction together. AutoNation is the largest auto retailer in the United States, with a strong premium luxury business and track record.  I am very excited for our associates, who have been a key part of our success in building one of the finest premium luxury automotive retail businesses in America.  I look forward to watching the Barrier stores under AutoNation's leadership continue our long tradition of outstanding customer service.”

AutoNation Picks Dealerslink as Approved Vendor

The dealer group also recently announced it has chosen Dealerslink — a dealer-direct marketplace — as an AutoNation Preferred vendor.

All 270 AutoNation dealerships now have approval to implement the DealersLink suite of tools at any of their locations, the company said.

“We’re excited that such a progressive, profit driven organization like AutoNation has given us this endorsement. It opens the door for AutoNation dealerships to leverage the DealersLink Marketplace at a time when access to quality inventory, and having the best tools really drives success. We’re excited that this collaboration will give another strategic advantage to AutoNation, DealersLink, and all of our dealer members.” said DealersLink vice president of sales Travis Wise.