News Summary
Sutherlin Automotive Group has acquired McKenna Subaru in Huntington Beach, CA, marking its first dealership in California. The acquisition, recognized as one of the largest for a single-point Subaru dealership, aims to enhance operations with an expanded service department, customer innovations, and create over 75 job opportunities. Sutherlin plans to establish a significant presence in California’s competitive automotive market by doubling inventory and improving customer service.
Huntington Beach, California – Sutherlin Automotive Group Expands with McKenna Subaru Acquisition
Sutherlin Automotive Group has announced its acquisition of McKenna Subaru, located in Huntington Beach, CA, marking a significant development in the dealership’s growth strategy. This acquisition, finalized on September 30, represents the first dealership for Sutherlin Automotive Group in the state of California, indicating a strategic move into one of the most competitive car markets in the country.
Though the terms of the acquisition deal were not disclosed, it is recognized as one of the largest transactions for a single-point Subaru dealership to date. Following this acquisition, Sutherlin Automotive Group plans to significantly expand McKenna Subaru’s operations, including doubling the size of its service and parts department. This expansion aims to position the dealership among the largest in California, reflecting a deep commitment to enhancing service capabilities.
Customer-Focused Innovations
In addition to physical expansions, Sutherlin plans to introduce several customer-focused innovations at the dealership. These advancements include mobile service options and pickup-and-delivery services, designed to offer greater convenience to Subaru customers in the region. The expansion will also enhance inventory levels, as the dealership aims to stock over 300 new Subarus and more than 250 used vehicles on-site, thus providing customers with the largest selection of Subarus in California.
Leadership and Operational Plans
Operations at the newly acquired dealership will be led by Eric Brower, who has a successful history in the Subaru network. Brower previously served in a leadership role at Sutherlin Subaru in Knoxville, TN, where he successfully doubled sales, and is expected to bring similar success to the Huntington Beach operation.
To navigate the intricacies of this acquisition, Sutherlin was advised by Mike Sims, president of Pinnacle Mergers & Acquisitions. Sutherlin’s agility as a family-owned business enables it to make quick and bold decisions, which has allowed for a swift entry into California’s competitive market.
Job Creation and Future Expansion Plans
The expansion is anticipated to create more than 75 new job opportunities in Huntington Beach, encompassing various roles in sales, service, and support teams. In a move to strengthen local operations, Brett Sutherlin has relocated to Orange County, establishing his office at the Huntington Beach dealership to oversee developments directly.
This acquisition is viewed as just the beginning of Sutherlin Automotive Group’s expansion strategy in California, with the company expressing intentions to pursue additional acquisition opportunities in the region as they arise.
Background on Sutherlin Automotive Group
Sutherlin Automotive Group, which is wholly owned and self-funded by Brett Sutherlin, has demonstrated a strong growth trajectory by adapting to market demands and recognizing prime opportunities for business development. The commitment to enhancing customer experiences through innovations and service improvements underscores the group’s focus on redefining the Subaru dealership experience.
As Sutherlin Automotive Group embarks on this new chapter with McKenna Subaru, it highlights a significant step in broadening its influence in the automotive industry while also reinforcing its commitment to customer service and quality.
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Additional Resources
- Auto Body News: Sutherlin Automotive Group Acquires Southern California Subaru Dealership
- The Malaysian Reserve: Sutherlin Automotive Group Acquires McKenna Subaru
- Aftermarket Matters: Sutherlin Acquires McKenna Subaru
- Access Newswire: Huntington Beach Ford’s Dark Side
- Wikipedia: Subaru
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
