McManes buys David Morris Fine Cars
EDMONTON, ALTA. – One of the more recognized luxury car dealerships in Alberta has changed hands as McManes Automotive confirms it has purchased David Morris Fine Cars.
The transaction, which became official Nov. 2, sees the growing McManes group rename the Edmonton point Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West adding another German luxury rooftop to its expanding portfolio.
Jim McManes, president of McManes Automotive, would not reveal costs but says the deal included the land, buildings and operating company.
McManes will be the dealer principal while Scott Held has been named managing partner in charge of operations and dealings with Mercedes-Benz.
The move comes during a very busy year for the Calgary-based dealership group.
McManes completed its purchase of St. Albert Dodge in Alberta and took over Oct. 1. Prior to that, it broke ground for what will be Calgary’s third Mercedes-Benz point, Mercedes-Benz Country Hills. The team is also in the middle of building South Trail Hyundai in Calgary scheduled to open in 2017.
South Trail Kia opened Oct. 5 with a grand opening planned for Nov. 25. Construction is also wrapping on South Trail Chrysler as they work towards an open date of Feb. 1, 2016.
McManes, who admits to being “very bullish” on Mercedes-Benz, says the first order of business for Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West will be to increase volume in both new and used-car departments.
McManes started with Eastside Dodge in 1987. Dealership acquisitions began in 1990 with a Passport franchise that became Saturn in 1992.
Expansion has continued with the group now holding ownership in over 17 dealerships stretching from Richmond, B.C. to Winnipeg, Man. Holdings also include one large used-vehicle operation and a leasing company.
In 2014 it sold nearly 15,000 new vehicles and 10,000 used.
