Krause Auto Group has acquired three dealerships from Sutherlin Automotive in a landmark deal. The purchase includes Sutherlin Nissan of Fort Myers, Sutherlin Genesis of Fort Myers, and Sutherlin Nissan of Cape Coral, totaling over $110 million.
CEO Vernon Krause expresses the acquisition is a way to expand his business and return to his roots. Krause grew up in the area, attending Bishop Verot High School in Fort Myers before completing his education at Stetson University in Deland, Florida. He sees this as a full-circle moment, being able to support the automotive industry in the booming market.
As general manager of the Fort Myers Nissan dealership, Mike Spinazze will carry on in that capacity for the two dealerships that were acquired. He will also assume a 40% minority partnership role in both Nissan stores. Krause stated, “His continuous involvement ensures a seamless transition and ongoing success.”
The dealership names have remained unchanged: Nissan of Cape Coral, Nissan of Fort Myers, and Fort Myers Genesis. With the addition of these three locations, the Krause Auto Group now has 23 dealerships nationwide.
Moving forward, each store’s rebranding will highlight the new owner’s “commitment to excellence, customer satisfaction, and innovation.”
Krause Auto Group is a network of family-owned dealerships throughout Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida. The portfolio of the 33-year-old corporation includes Aston Martin, Rolls-Royce, BMW, Mercedes, Ford, Lincoln, Nissan, Hyundai, Genesis, Lamborghini, and Lotus.
