Group 1 Automotive Acquires Six Franchises in Columbus, Georgia

HOUSTON--Dec. 10, 2013: Group 1 Automotive, Inc. , an international, Fortune 500 automotive retailer, announced yesterday, the acquisition of Jay Automotive Group, Inc., in Columbus, Georgia, which include the following franchises: Jay Toyota Scion; Jay Buick GMC; Jay Subaru of Columbus; Jay Mazda; and Volvo of Columbus. The dealerships, which will operate as Rivertown Toyota; Rivertown Scion; Rivertown Buick GMC; Rivertown Subaru; Rivertown Mazda; and Volvo of Columbus, are expected to generate $150 million in estimated annual revenues.

"Upon entering the Columbus market last December with the Rivertown Ford acquisition, we found both the city and people to be very welcoming. We are delighted to build scale and offer a wider selection of automotive brands in such a thriving community," said Earl J. Hesterberg, Group 1's president and chief executive officer.

About Group 1 Automotive, Inc. Group 1 owns and operates 148 automotive dealerships, 188 franchises, and 37 collision centers in the United States, the United Kingdom and Brazil that offer 34 brands of automobiles. Through its dealerships, the Company sells new and used cars and light trucks; arranges related vehicle financing, service and insurance contracts; provides automotive maintenance and repair services; and sells vehicle parts.