The nation’s auto retailers have once again defied expectations. According to the newly released Q3 2025 Haig Report from Haig Partners, dealership profits rose for the second consecutive quarter, buy-sell activity rebounded sharply and valuations remain near record highs, signaling continued optimism for 2026.
“Most dealers we speak with are optimistic about the future,” said Alan Haig, President and Founder of Haig Partners. “Despite tariffs and struggles at some brands, average profits remain more than twice pre-pandemic levels, and both buyers and sellers are leaning in again. Confidence is back in the market and sellers can still receive near peak values for their dealerships.”
Average pre-tax profits per public dealership increased 13.0% in Q3 2025 versus Q3 2024, powered by strong fixed operations growth (+8.3%) and continued
Average blue sky value per dealership climbed 7.3% since year-end 2024 due to a lift in profits and strong demand from buyers.
Buy-sell activity revealed 149 dealerships traded hands in Q3, a strong rebound from the slow start of 2025 returning to the same level of sales we saw in Q3 2024.
Both private and public groups are back in acquisition mode. Publics completed major deals, including Asbury’s $1.3 billion purchase of the Herb Chambers Companies, while private groups pursued strategic tuck-ins and smaller platform acquisitions.
Haig Partners forecasts that approximately 450 rooftops will change hands in 2025, and perhaps more in 2026. Inbound calls from sellers have picked up in the fourth quarter. That means a higher supply of dealerships is coming to market in the first half of 2026. As a result of strong demand and rising supply, the outlook for buy-sells remains robust
