Walser Automotive Group Expands Footprint with New Kia Dealership in Minnetonka
Walser Automotive Group has announced the grand opening of Walser Kia Minnetonka, marking another major step in the company’s strategic growth and commitment to expanding its automotive retail presence across Minnesota and beyond. The new dealership, located at 15700 Wayzata Boulevard in Minnetonka, officially opened its doors today and brings 44 new jobs to the local community, boosting both employment and economic activity in the Minnetonka and Wayzata areas.
A Strategic Expansion with a Leading Brand
The addition of Kia to Walser’s growing portfolio represents a significant milestone for the Bloomington-based auto group. Over the past decade, Kia has evolved from a budget-friendly manufacturer to a design-forward, innovation-driven global brand, earning praise for its striking aesthetics, advanced technology, and ambitious push into electric mobility.
“What’s exciting for me is being in one of my favorite parts of town with the hottest brand in the world right now,” said Campbell Walser, General Manager of Walser Kia. “This is an incredible opportunity in a great neighborhood and city. Our team is thrilled to launch this store from the ground up and to pair Kia’s innovative spirit with the customer-first experience Walser is known for.”
Leadership Rooted in Family and Local Connection
Campbell Walser’s appointment as General Manager underscores the company’s dedication to leadership continuity and local engagement. A Minnesota native, he returns to the Twin Cities after serving as General Manager of Mercedes-Benz of Wichita, one of nine luxury dealerships on Walser’s Auto Campus in Wichita, Kansas. Campbell is part of the Walser family’s next generation of leaders, being the son of partner Paul Walser and nephew of CEO Andrew Walser.
His leadership reflects the group’s ongoing focus on blending next-generation retail innovation with the strong family-driven values that have defined Walser Automotive Group for over 65 years.
Kia’s Momentum Aligns with Walser’s Vision
Kia’s rise has been one of the most remarkable transformations in the global automotive industry. Once known for affordability, the brand now competes head-to-head with luxury and premium automakers through its bold design philosophy, cutting-edge technology, and high-quality craftsmanship.
In recent years, Kia has received widespread acclaim for models such as the award-winning Telluride SUV, the performance-oriented Stinger, and the fully electric EV9 — a flagship vehicle that embodies the company’s shift toward sustainable mobility. The automaker’s “Movement That Inspires” philosophy resonates with Walser’s own commitment to customer-centered innovation, making the partnership a natural fit.
Strengthening a Diverse Portfolio
Walser Kia Minnetonka marks the second new dealership opening in 2025 for Walser Automotive Group. Earlier this year, the company launched Walser Mitsubishi Burnsville, reinforcing its presence across a wide spectrum of automotive brands.
This diversified strategy enables Walser to cater to a broad customer base — from luxury enthusiasts to budget-conscious buyers and electric vehicle adopters — positioning the company as a versatile leader in the evolving U.S. automotive retail landscape.
Currently ranked as the 26th-largest dealership group in the United States by Automotive News (2024), Walser operates 28 locations nationwide and represents more than 24 automotive brands, spanning luxury, mainstream, and performance segments. The group’s continued investment in new facilities and technology underscores its confidence in the resilience and transformation of the retail automotive industry.
Driving the Future of Retail Automotive
Walser’s expansion efforts reflect a larger industry shift toward modernized, customer-centric retail experiences. The new Walser Kia Minnetonka dealership embodies this evolution with its contemporary design, advanced service facilities, and seamless integration of digital tools that enhance the customer journey — from online research and financing to vehicle delivery.
“Customer experience is at the heart of everything we do,” noted CEO Andrew Walser in earlier company statements. “As automotive retail evolves, we’re committed to staying ahead of the curve with transparent pricing, technology-driven convenience, and a culture that empowers our people to serve customers better than anyone else.”
This approach is supported by Walser’s “One Person, One Price” philosophy, eliminating traditional negotiation in favor of straightforward, transparent pricing handled by a single customer specialist throughout the purchase process. The model not only simplifies buying but also builds trust and long-term loyalty — a cornerstone of Walser’s reputation.
A Look Ahead: Continuing Growth and Innovation
Looking forward, Walser Automotive Group plans to expand its luxury and performance portfolio with the launch of a boutique Lamborghini retail experience in Wayzata, scheduled to open in late 2026. This upcoming project complements Walser’s growing list of premium and electric-focused dealerships, aligning with emerging consumer demand for innovation, sustainability, and personalization.
The addition of Kia further strengthens Walser’s strategic mix, reinforcing its ability to serve a dynamic and rapidly changing market. As Kia continues to roll out next-generation electric and hybrid vehicles — including the EV6, Niro EV, and EV9 — Walser’s Minnetonka dealership is poised to become a key hub for electrified vehicle adoption in Minnesota.
Building Community Connections
Beyond business growth, Walser Automotive Group remains deeply committed to community engagement and philanthropy. Through the Walser Foundation, the company supports local education, workforce development, and community organizations across Minnesota and Kansas. The opening of Walser Kia Minnetonka is expected to extend these partnerships within the local area, supporting civic initiatives and contributing to community vitality.
About Walser Automotive Group
Walser Automotive Group is a family-owned and operated dealer group based in Bloomington, Minn. The company operates 28 retail locations across Minnesota, Kansas, and Illinois, representing a full range of domestic and import brands. In addition to its dealership operations, Walser runs affiliated businesses in rental and collision services, with operations in Minnesota, Illinois, New Mexico, Texas, and Georgia.
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