Dave Cantin Group Facilitates Historic $500 Million Acquisition of Midwestern Auto Group by Jeff Wyler Automotive Family
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Jan. 14, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a landmark transaction, the Dave Cantin Group (DCG) has announced that the Jeff Wyler Automotive Family has successfully acquired the Midwestern Auto Group (MAG), making it one of the most significant private-to-private automotive acquisitions in U.S. history. This deal, valued at $500 million, includes renowned luxury brands such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Rolls-Royce, and Bentley, solidifying its position as the largest luxury retail automotive acquisition of the year.
Significance of the Acquisition
This acquisition sets a new benchmark in the automotive industry, being the largest in Ohio's history. The single-campus acquisition encompasses a total of 14 premium and luxury automotive franchises, now to be branded as The Wyler Collection. According to CEO Dave Cantin, “Transactions like Midwestern Auto Group are exceptionally rare. Identifying a private operator capable of acquiring such a comprehensive portfolio is challenging.”
About the Deal and Advisory Role
DCG served as the exclusive sell-side advisor to MAG’s owner, Mark Brentlinger, in a succession plan that took nearly two years to finalize. The advisory team comprised experts from reputable firms, including Holland & Knight and Goldman Sachs, to ensure a seamless transition while preserving Brentlinger’s nearly four-decade legacy in the automotive sector.
Key Remarks from Industry Leaders
David Wyler, president and CEO of Jeff Wyler Automotive Family, stated, “Adding Midwestern’s 14 premium and luxury franchises significantly expands our presence in the region, ensuring that this unique campus remains privately held by owners who live and invest in the area.” Meanwhile, Brentlinger expressed gratitude towards the team at DCG for their integrity and care throughout the complex process, emphasizing that he found the perfect successor to uphold the company culture.
The Future of Jeff Wyler Automotive Family
Founded in 1973, the Jeff Wyler Automotive Family will now operate a total of 64 franchises after incorporating the newly acquired luxury brands from MAG. With this expansion, the family remains one of only eight dealership groups in the nation to own both Ferrari and Lamborghini franchises, further solidifying their foothold in the luxury automotive market.
Industry Rarity and Implications
As one of the foremost luxury transactions since early 2025, this acquisition ranks among the top three largest dealership transactions in the Midwest by total enterprise value. The rarity of such a single-site campus acquisition underlines the exceptional circumstances surrounding this deal.
About Dave Cantin Group
The Dave Cantin Group is recognized as a leading M&A advisory firm focused on the automotive industry. Specializing in acquisitions, divestitures, and market intelligence, DCG advises North America’s top automotive groups on approximately 40 transactions annually. The company's commitment to providing tailored advisory services, strengthened by long-term client relationships, enhances its reputation in the marketplace.
Conclusion
This acquisition not only signifies a major shift in the luxury automotive landscape but also emphasizes the importance of strategic succession planning in protecting business legacies. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, partnerships like that between DCG and the Jeff Wyler Automotive Family will remain essential in navigating such complex transactions.