In a transaction that highlights both strategic foresight and seamless execution, Beyer Automotive Group of Virginia, a respected family‑owned business founded in 1973, has now completed the sale of its eight dealerships across Northern Virginia. Discover more about this sale with the expert litigation team at Charapp & Weiss, LLP.
A Legacy Built on Values
What began as a single dealership under Don Beyer Sr. expanded into one of Virginia’s most prominent dealer groups under his sons, Don Jr. and Mike Beyer, growing to eight locations by 2019. By the time of the sale, the group was retailing more than 7,000 vehicles annually and generating around $400 million in revenue (Haig Partners).
A Dual-Track Sale Strategy
Rather than a single transaction, the sale was strategically split into two parts to better align with buyer profiles and ensure continuity for both communities and employees.
- On August 30, 2024, Jim Keffer and Jon Alcorn acquired the Winchester dealerships (Volvo, Mazda, and Volkswagen), which are now operating as Dogwood Automotive Group (Haig Partners).
- On October 10, 2024, Open Road Capital (backed by Bain Capital) purchased the Northern Virginia locations, including Land Rover Alexandria, Beyer Volvo Cars of Dulles, Falls Church, Beyer Kia, Beyer Subaru, and Smokey’s Garage (Haig Partners).
Expert Guidance with Tailored Solutions
Haig Partners served as exclusive sell‑side advisor throughout this complex process. Their team—Mike Toth, Alan Haig, Markus Haig—successfully navigated the intricacies posed by multiple brands, real estate factors, and the need for confidentiality, ultimately achieving a positive outcome for Mike Beyer and his family (Haig Partners).
What This Means for Dealers
- Strategic Structuring Matters
Breaking a group into tailored deals can vastly enhance buyer fit and enable smoother transitions. - The Role of Trusted Advisors
As demonstrated here, expert advisory support—especially in multi-franchise and real estate-heavy deals—is invaluable. - Preserving Legacy with Confidence
The dual approach allowed the Beyer family to preserve their legacy while transitioning ownership responsibly.
Why This Matters to Our Readers
At Charapp & Weiss, LLP, we know that dealership owners face unique challenges when contemplating an exit—whether due to generational transitions, market dynamics, or evolving personal priorities. The Beyer sale serves as a textbook example of how thoughtful strategy, experienced guidance, and structured dealmaking can safeguard legacy while paving the way for the next chapter.
If you’re considering a sale or succession plan for your dealership—especially one involving multiple franchises or complex assets—our team understands what’s at stake. We’re here to help you structure transactions that protect your values and maximize outcomes.
Read the full Haig Partners announcement here: [Beyer Automotive Group of Virginia sells its eight dealerships]
If you need representation, contact the expert litigation team from Charapp & Weiss.