Haig Partners Guides Record-Breaking Sale of Two Mazda Dealerships for Hodges Family
Haig Partners LLC, a premier buy-sell advisory firm specializing in automotive and heavy truck dealerships across the U.S., has successfully advised on a landmark transaction involving the Hodges family’s two Mazda dealerships. The sale includes Hodges Mazda of the Avenues in Jacksonville and Hodges Mazda of St. Augustine, both acquired by Morgan Automotive Group—the largest dealership group in Florida and ranked #8 nationally on the 2025 Automotive News Top 150 Dealership Groups list. Notably, the sale of Hodges Mazda of the Avenues established a new industry benchmark for the highest blue sky value ever paid for a Mazda dealership.
This milestone transaction marks a planned exit from the auto retail sector for brothers David and Dan Hodges, who have built a longstanding legacy in the automotive space. After decades of success, the brothers are pivoting to focus more fully on their growing non-automotive business portfolios. David Hodges is now channeling his efforts into ventures that include 925 Partners, an independent insurance agency, and ownership interests in several minor league professional sports franchises. Meanwhile, Dan Hodges will concentrate on managing a thriving agricultural enterprise in Georgia.
Reflecting on the transition, David Hodges stated, “It has been an honor and a privilege to steward our two Mazda franchises over the last decade. After much prayer and consideration, over the past year, it became evident that I was being led to move to the next chapter and exit the automotive business after 35 years. This was not a decision I took lightly, as I am incredibly bullish on the Mazda brand. However, it was clear and evident to me that God was moving me in a different direction.”
Hodges extended heartfelt gratitude to his dealership staff, customers, and professional partners, including Haig Partners and the Morgan family. “I wish nothing but the best to Larry Morgan and his son Brett, the new owners of our dealerships. They are a large group with immense resources but remain a family business. Kevin Nill from Haig Partners is a friend who I have known for almost the entirety of my time in automotive retail. His professionalism and steady hand were such a blessing to have as we moved through this transaction.”
He added, “To our incredible team members who have embodied our values of Integrity, Service, and Excellence, and to the customers who trusted us with their business—thank you. We leave you in excellent hands with Morgan Automotive Group. I also owe a special thank you to the Graham family, who believed in me and made it possible for my brother and me to realize our dream of owning dealerships. And, of course, to my brother Dan, whose wisdom, grace, and leadership made this journey not only successful but deeply fulfilling.”
David Hodges is no stranger to success in the automotive space. Formerly the CEO of Scott-McRae Automotive Group, a well-known Jacksonville-based dealership group, Hodges later went on to found Hodges Mazda of Jacksonville. He also secured the open point for a new dealership in St. Augustine, which officially opened in November 2024. His influence extended nationally, having served as the most recent Chairman of the Mazda Dealer Advisory Council, where he played a critical role in shaping the brand’s strategy from a dealership perspective.
The sale represents a significant achievement for Haig Partners as well. Kevin Nill, Managing Director at Haig Partners and the lead advisor on the transaction, praised the Hodges family for their strategic vision and legacy. “We are proud to have advised David and Dan Hodges on this important transaction. They built an exceptional reputation as Mazda dealers and were very thoughtful in selecting the right time and the right buyer. Morgan Automotive Group, with its deep roots in Florida and proven ability to integrate high-performing franchises, was the perfect fit. As we move into the second half of 2025, we’re continuing to see very strong buyer demand—especially in desirable geographic markets and for franchises with strong financials. For dealers who’ve been watching interest rates and macroeconomic uncertainty, this may be one of the most favorable times to consider a sale in years.”
Morgan Automotive Group, known for its aggressive growth strategy and consistent acquisition of premium dealerships, continues to dominate the Florida market. Their acquisition of the two Hodges Mazda locations further strengthens their portfolio in Northeast Florida, complementing existing operations while adding valuable brand equity and market reach.
Larry Morgan, Chairman of Morgan Automotive Group, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition and admiration for the Hodges legacy. “We’re honored to continue the legacy that David and Dan Hodges have built at Hodges Mazda. I’ve known David for many years, and throughout this process, he demonstrated the same integrity and professionalism that have defined his career. We’re grateful that he and Dan are entrusting us with their business, and we look forward to building on their success while continuing to serve the Jacksonville and St. Augustine communities.”
The acquisition by Morgan Automotive Group is just the latest in a string of high-profile deals orchestrated by Haig Partners. The firm has now advised on the purchase or sale of 95 dealerships in Florida—more than any other advisory group. Their track record in the state includes the recent sale of Duval Honda, Duval Acura, and Subaru of Gainesville, all previously part of the Scott-McRae Automotive Group.
Haig Partners’ continued dominance in Florida reflects not only the strength of the firm’s network and deal execution capabilities, but also its deep relationships with dealership owners and national dealer groups alike. In a market environment characterized by consolidation and growing investor interest, Haig Partners remains at the forefront of high-value transactions that redefine industry benchmarks.
For the Hodges family, this chapter closes with a sense of fulfillment and legacy preserved. For Morgan Automotive Group, it’s yet another strategic step toward unrivaled market leadership. And for Haig Partners, it’s further validation of their role as trusted advisors helping dealers navigate transitions with confidence, precision, and record-breaking results.
