For decades, Mark Jacobson Toyota has stood as a fixture in Southern California’s automotive scene, particularly in the bustling city of Norwalk. Known for its reliable service and community involvement, the dealership had become synonymous with Toyota ownership for generations of customers. However, in 2021, the name that had been etched into the hearts of local car buyers was suddenly up for sale. This raised a burning question among car enthusiasts and industry watchers alike: Who bought Mark Jacobson Toyota? This article delves into the story behind the sale, explores the buyer, the transition process, and what the acquisition means for the future of the dealership and the local automotive market.
The Legacy of Mark Jacobson Toyota
Mark Jacobson Toyota first opened its doors in the late 1980s, located strategically at 12630 Firestone Boulevard in Norwalk, California. The dealership quickly gained a positive reputation, offering top-tier customer service, Toyota’s renowned reliability, and a family-friendly atmosphere that resonated with the local population.
A Pillar of the Norwalk Community
Over the years, the dealership became more than just a place to buy cars. It actively participated in local events, supported schools, and contributed to various community outreach programs. The Jacobson name was a symbol of trust and stability, and this reputation contributed significantly to the dealership’s long-lasting success.
Industry Recognition
Mark Jacobson Toyota was not just known locally; it was frequently recognized for excellence in sales and service within the Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. Inc. network. It regularly achieved top-tier performance metrics in customer satisfaction, used-car turnover, and overall facility upkeep.
The Sale: A Surprising Turn of Events
Despite the dealership’s strong standing, in 2021, the surprising news broke that Mark Jacobson Toyota was being sold. This came after Mark Jacobson’s decision to retire from the day-to-day operations of the dealership, a move that led to a search for a buyer who could uphold the established legacy.
Why Was Mark Jacobson Toyota Sold?
There were no signs of financial trouble or poor performance. In fact, the dealership remained profitable up through the sale. The decision came largely from Mark Jacobson himself, who was ready to step away from the business after decades of service. Retirement planning, evolving industry dynamics, and a desire to ensure continuity for employees and customers all likely played a role in the decision-making process.
Industry Trends and Dealer Consolidation
The automotive dealership market has seen significant consolidation in recent years. Larger dealership groups have been acquiring smaller or regionally-known dealerships to capitalize on economies of scale, improved financing terms, and better marketing reach. In this context, the sale of Mark Jacobson Toyota is not unique, but rather part of a broader trend toward corporate consolidation in the auto retail space.
The Buyer: Who Took Over Mark Jacobson Toyota?
After a thorough vetting process, the acquisition of Mark Jacobson Toyota was finalized by none other than Crevier BMW of Santa Ana, a renowned dealership group with deep roots in Southern California.
Meet Crevier BMW: A Legacy of Excellence in Auto Retailing
Crevier BMW has been in operation for over 80 years, making it one of the oldest and most respected automotive dealership groups in the region. Originally founded as Crevier Motor Company in 1941, it transitioned to a BMW dealership in the late 1980s and has since cemented its reputation as a premier luxury automotive retailer.
The group is currently led by Steve Crevier, a fourth-generation auto industry executive who has expanded the company’s presence and services substantially. Crevier BMW has successfully managed its own growth through strategic acquisitions and a commitment to customer satisfaction, making it a fitting candidate to buy Mark Jacobson Toyota.
Why Did Crevier BMW Buy Mark Jacobson Toyota?
There are several strategic reasons behind the acquisition:
- Expansion of Brand Reach: Crevier BMW saw an opportunity to diversify its portfolio by entering the Toyota market, leveraging the existing Toyota infrastructure to reach a broader customer base.
- Geographic Synergy: The location of Mark Jacobson Toyota complements Crevier’s other properties, creating a network effect in Southern California’s automotive retail market.
- Established Reputation: Mark Jacobson Toyota brought with it a strong brand identity and loyal customer base, reducing the entry barriers for Crevier’s expansion into Toyota retail.
- Efficient Transition: Acquiring an existing dealership, rather than starting from scratch, allowed for a quicker entry into the market with minimal startup costs.
Financial Factors Behind the Acquisition
While financial terms were not disclosed publicly, industry insiders speculate the sale was likely in the $30 million to $40 million range, based on typical dealership valuations in Southern California. The acquisition was particularly attractive due to the dealership’s prime real estate, longstanding relationships with Toyota, and robust financial performance up to the sale.
What Changed After the Acquisition?
Following the sale, the dealership underwent a notable transformation, both in branding and in operations. While the physical location remained the same, the changes were both visible and structural.
Brand Transition from Mark Jacobson Toyota to Crevier Toyota
As expected, the dealership rebranded as Crevier Toyota of Norwalk, aligning it with the Crevier name that Southern California luxury car owners already recognized. This rebranding was seamless in many ways—retaining existing staff, maintaining service hours, and honoring all prior warranties and service records.
Commitment to Local Community
Despite the ownership change, Crevier Toyota vowed to continue building relationships within the Norwalk and surrounding communities. Community involvement remained a priority, with participation in local charity drives, back-to-school initiatives, and support for local schools.
Operational Enhancements and Investments
Crevier, known for its high standards of customer care and modern facilities, invested in upgrading the dealership’s infrastructure and training programs. Key enhancements included:
- New state-of-the-art service center upgrades
- Improved website and online transaction capabilities
- Employee training programs aligned with Crevier’s core values
- Integration with the Crevier Group’s digital marketing strategies
These changes signaled a new chapter for the dealership—bringing modernity and a fresh energy while preserving the core customer-centric values that made Mark Jacobson Toyota so well-regarded.
The New Era: Crevier Toyota of Norwalk Today
Today, Crevier Toyota of Norwalk continues to serve as a key player in the Toyota dealership space in Southern California. The transition has proven successful in both maintaining the customer base and introducing a wider audience to the dealership through broader marketing and online presence.
Customer Response to the New Management
Initial customer feedback post-acquisition reflected a mix of nostalgia and cautious optimism. Many long-time customers were curious about whether the same level of personal involvement and trust would remain after the switch, but over time, satisfaction scores have remained high.
Online Presence and Digital Transformation
One of the significant upgrades Crevier introduced was a fully integrated digital retailing platform, allowing customers to:
- View real-time inventory online
- Secure financing pre-approvals
- Customize vehicle orders
- Service scheduling via mobile app
This forward-thinking approach was embraced by a new generation of car buyers, positioning Crevier Toyota as both a modern and tradition-honoring dealership.
Dealership Metrics Post-Acquisition
Although the dealership no longer operates under the Jacobson name, performance metrics under Crevier have remained consistent or improved. The table below gives an overview of key performance indicators pre and post acquisition:
| Metric | Pre-Acquisition (2020) | Post-Acquisition (2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Vehicle Sales | Approx. 6,500 units | Approx. 6,300 units |
| Online Transaction Rate | 10% | 45% |
| Customer Satisfaction Score | 93/100 | 95/100 |
| Service Appointments per Week | 420 | 475 |
| Employee Retention Rate | 90% | 85% |
While overall car sales slightly dipped, digital engagement, customer satisfaction, and service appointments saw measurable growth—highlighting a shift in customer behavior and marketing strategy.
What This Means for the Future of Auto Dealerships
The sale of Mark Jacobson Toyota to Crevier BMW is more than just a local story—it exemplifies broader trends in the automotive retail space. As younger generations of dealership owners look to retire and exit the market, strategic buyers are stepping in to maintain brand continuity while introducing modern innovations.
Trend Toward Portfolio Diversification
Crevier’s decision to acquire a Toyota dealership—a brand in a completely different market segment than BMW—shows the growing trend of auto dealership groups investing across different automotive brands. This diversification strategy helps ensure market resilience amid economic ups and downs and changing consumer preferences.
Shift Toward Digital Retailing
Just like other retail sectors, the auto industry is rapidly evolving toward digital-first customer engagement. The investment Crevier made in modernizing the Crevier Toyota of Norwalk site underscores the growing importance of omnichannel retailing, where customers can interact, configure, and even purchase vehicles online without ever setting foot on the lot.
Brand Identity vs. Corporate Consolidation
One of the ongoing debates in dealership circles is whether brand identities like Mark Jacobson Toyota can thrive under larger corporate ownership. The Norwalk case study provides an encouraging precedent, showing that with thoughtful integration strategies, local legacy and national brand strength can coexist harmoniously.
Conclusion: The Story Behind the Sale
So, who bought Mark Jacobson Toyota? The answer, as we’ve explored throughout this article, is the Crevier Group, through its Crevier BMW of Santa Ana entity. The acquisition is a testament to evolving dealership dynamics, the strategic importance of expansion, and the ability of legacy brands to transition successfully into new ownership.
While the Jacobson name may no longer grace the dealership’s signage, the foundational values—trust, loyalty, and community service—live on under new management.
Mark Jacobson Toyota, now rebranded as Crevier Toyota of Norwalk, stands as a compelling example of how automotive retail is shaping up in the 21st century. It’s a story of change, adaptation, and the enduring importance of customer-first service in a rapidly transforming market.
Whether you’re a longtime customer or a new buyer, the dealership continues to offer reliable Toyota service, backed by modern business practices and a strong commitment to its SoCal roots. And in a world where change often brings uncertainty, this acquisition has, so far, proven to be a smooth and promising transition for all involved.
Who bought Mark Jacobson Toyota?
Mark Jacobson Toyota, a well-established dealership based in California, was acquired by a prominent dealership group known for its extensive presence in the automotive industry. The buyer was identified as Sonic Automotive, a Fortune 500 company that operates numerous dealerships across the United States. Sonic Automotive’s acquisition strategy has long focused on expanding its portfolio by acquiring reputable dealerships, particularly in high-traffic markets like California.
The acquisition of Mark Jacobson Toyota marked another significant step in Sonic Automotive’s growth plan, which emphasizes digital integration, enhanced customer experience, and operational efficiency. This move was seen as a strategic effort to consolidate its presence in Southern California, leveraging the reputation and customer loyalty that Mark Jacobson Toyota had built over decades. The deal was finalized in early 2023 after months of negotiations and due diligence.
Why did Mark Jacobson Toyota decide to sell?
Mark Jacobson Toyota’s decision to sell was largely influenced by shifting market dynamics and the increasing complexity of running a dealership in a highly competitive and rapidly evolving automotive landscape. Like many long-standing family-owned businesses, succession planning played a critical role in the decision-making process. As the original owners aged, they sought a transition that would preserve the dealership’s integrity while ensuring continued success.
Additionally, aligning with a larger, well-resourced organization like Sonic Automotive provided an opportunity to modernize operations, improve digital capabilities, and offer a more expansive service network to customers. By selling to a company with significant infrastructure and financial backing, Mark Jacobson Toyota could adapt to new trends in vehicle sales, electric vehicles (EVs), and service demands without the burden of shouldering the investment alone.
How much was the acquisition of Mark Jacobson Toyota worth?
While exact figures of the acquisition were not publicly disclosed, industry estimates placed the value of the Mark Jacobson Toyota deal in the range of $30 million to $40 million. This valuation reflects the dealership’s prime location, strong revenue history, and its long-standing reputation in the Southern California automotive market. Typically, dealership acquisitions factor in both real estate and brand equity, both of which played a significant role in this transaction.
The dealership’s strong service department, parts division, and customer retention rates also contributed to its higher valuation. Sonic Automotive’s history of acquiring premium dealerships at competitive valuations suggests that they perceived long-term strategic value in this deal, potentially anticipating growth through digital retailing, expanded service offerings, and manufacturer incentives tied to future EV integrations.
What changes can customers expect after the acquisition?
Customers of Mark Jacobson Toyota can expect a smoother, more technologically advanced purchasing and service experience following the acquisition. As part of Sonic Automotive’s portfolio, the dealership has begun integrating its award-winning digital retailing platform, QuickLane for service, and enhanced financing and leasing options. The transition also allows for better online inventory access and home delivery options, reflecting Sonic’s commitment to omnichannel customer service.
However, at the ground level, many aspects of daily operations have remained unchanged, including much of the existing staff and the dealership’s long-held values of transparency and customer satisfaction. The change in ownership was primarily aimed at improving backend systems, supplier relationships, and scalability, all while maintaining a familiar local presence on the showroom floor.
Is Mark Jacobson Toyota still operating under the same name?
Yes, Mark Jacobson Toyota continues to operate under the same name as part of Sonic Automotive’s strategy to maintain strong local brand recognition. Sonic often retains the names of well-established dealerships post-acquisition to ensure continuity and preserve trust among loyal customers. This branding decision has proven effective in previous transactions where Sonic integrated operations without diminishing the community connection fostered by the previous name.
In this case, maintaining the Mark Jacobson Toyota brand also allowed for a smoother transition while aligning with Sonic’s broader marketing and operational initiatives. The name may co-brand with Sonic’s proprietary brands like EchoPark or QuickLane in certain service sections, but the primary dealership identity remains unchanged as of now.
Will the acquisition affect the employees at Mark Jacobson Toyota?
The acquisition did not result in widespread layoffs or major employee turnover at Mark Jacobson Toyota. In fact, one of the conditions of the sale was the commitment to retaining a significant portion of the existing staff, particularly those with strong customer relationships and tenure. Sonic Automotive typically emphasizes a culture of collaboration and has a track record of incorporating dealership personnel into its broader organizational structure.
That being said, some administrative and managerial changes were introduced as part of the integration process. New systems and training protocols were implemented, which may have led to some internal adjustments and professional development opportunities for employees. Overall, the impact on staff was minimized to ensure consistent customer service and a stable workplace environment during the transition.
What does this acquisition mean for the future of Mark Jacobson Toyota?
The acquisition by Sonic Automotive signals a promising future for Mark Jacobson Toyota, with a focus on innovation, expansion, and improved customer engagement. Under Sonic’s umbrella, the dealership is better poised to adopt cutting-edge technologies and streamline digital operations, meeting the current and future expectations of car buyers. Additionally, the integration allows for more robust training programs, improved manufacturer relationships, and potential for franchise expansion.
Moreover, the dealership is expected to benefit from Sonic’s investments in sustainable automotive practices, including a stronger focus on hybrid and electric vehicles. With the automotive industry moving toward electrification and digitalization, the acquisition positions Mark Jacobson Toyota to remain competitive and relevant in the coming decade. The transition ensures continued service to the community, though with more resources and capabilities behind it.