One of the nation’s largest dealership groups is one dealership larger, as the company expands its footprint within its original market.

On Friday, Larry H. Miller Dealerships announced the acquisition of Pro Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram of Thornton, Colo., now renamed Larry H. Miller Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram 104th.

The acquisition boosts the group’s presence in the Denver market, which began in 1988, and marks the location of the start of the career of company founder Larry H. Miller in 1970, as a parts salesman.

The Thornton store joins the company’s six other Denver-area dealerships.

“For 26 years we’ve served the greater Denver area both financially and philanthropically, and we are excited to add a Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram store to our offerings,” said Dean Fitzpatrick, president of Larry H. Miller Dealerships.

“We look forward to continuing to provide exemplary customer service, employee growth opportunities and to conduct business in-line with our company values of honesty and integrity,” he said.  

Former owner of the Thornton store, John Schenden, said the auto group’s commitment to employee retention was a key factor in his decision to sell.

“Selling a business is difficult, especially since I have invested the past 21 years into the store,” Schenden said. “Knowing that I am selling to a company that values not just their customers and employees, but the betterment of their communities, made the decision easier.”

“We always consider employees part of the asset when we acquire a new store, and we invest in their growth,” said Steve Starks, executive vice president of Larry H. Miller Management Corp. “In addition to retaining current store employees, we have full-time trainers in our dealership group who work with staff to help them be successful.”

Larry H. Miller Dealerships operates 53 dealership locations in six western states.

Through Larry H. Miller Charities, the company also gives back locally; focusing on women’s and children’s issues with an emphasis on health and education, it has donated more than $223,000 to Denver-area nonprofits since 1996.