Scott Biehl was named dealer principal of Mercedes Benz of Fresno in 2019. Image via Mercedes Benz of Fresno

Three years after becoming dealer principal of Mercedes-Benz of Fresno, Scott Biehl has sold his holdings to a group looking to make a name for itself in California.

Toronto-based Alpha Auto Group has acquired two auto dealerships in the deal, the terms of which were not disclosed. Alpha Auto Group is described in a news release as a major consolidator of auto retailers looking to spread its reach. 

The sale marks the first acquisition of a Mercedes-Benz dealership by Alpha Auto Group, as well as its first endeavor in the Golden State, according to the release.

The deal also included the sale of Central Valley Fleet Sales and Service located at 4385 W. Shaw.

Biehl said after 36 years in the automotive industry, he plans to take some time off before deciding his next move. He added that despite selling the business to an “outstanding buyer,” he doesn’t plan to go away just yet.

“I shouldn’t say I’m going to be retired; people that know me know I can’t just sit still,” Biehl said. “I’ve got some other business deal ideas that I’m working on.”

Biehl added that Alpha Auto Group was selected primarily because of the commitment and focus the group shows employees, communities and customers.

“The commitment we’ve made to the employees, and the greater Fresno community, will continue under the leadership of AAG,” Biehl said.

Independent merchant banking firm The Presidio Group, based in Denver and Atlanta, advised Biehl on the sale. It wasn’t his first experience with The Presidio Group. Earlier this year, Biehl and the banking firm coordinated the sale of Jaguar Land Rover Los Angeles, where Biehl also served as dealer principal.

The addition of Mercedes-Benz of Fresno adds the Mercedes brand to Alpha Auto Group’s growing family of brands, including Acura, BMW, Honda, Hyundai, Mini, Subaru and Toyota.

Overall, Alpha Auto Group now owns 13 dealerships nationwide — mostly in Canada with a few in Oregon. Kuldeep Billan is founder and CEO, according to the firm’s website.

“We are thrilled to welcome our new Fresno teammates to the AAG family,” according to a statement from Alpha Auto Group. “Adding Mercedes-Benz to our lineup has long been a goal of ours. We are excited to add the dynamic California market to our portfolio.”