Haig Partners Advises Tom Dinsdale Automotive on Sale of Dealership Group to The Rydell Company, Marking a Major Milestone in Nebraska Auto Retailing
Haig Partners LLC, one of the most prominent buy-sell advisory firms serving auto and heavy truck dealerships across the United States, has announced its role as the exclusive sell-side advisor in the successful sale of Tom Dinsdale Automotive to The Rydell Company. This significant transaction includes the transfer of three high-performing dealerships located in Central Nebraska—Tom Dinsdale Chevrolet Cadillac GMC and Tom Dinsdale Hyundai in Grand Island, and Tom Dinsdale Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (CDJR) in Hastings.
The sale signifies a major transition for the Dinsdale family, marking their formal exit from the retail automotive industry after more than two decades of growth and community leadership. Founded in 2003 by Tom and Kim Dinsdale, Tom Dinsdale Automotive evolved into one of Nebraska’s most trusted and community-engaged dealership groups. With a reputation built on excellent customer service, deep local roots, and a passion for philanthropy, the Dinsdale brand has become a household name across Grand Island, Hastings, and surrounding areas.
Among the group’s standout assets is Tom Dinsdale Chevrolet Cadillac GMC, whose facility is one of the largest of its kind in the world, spanning over 70,000 square feet. The store also boasts the only Cadillac franchise between Omaha, Nebraska and Denver, Colorado—an exclusive distinction that underscores the strategic value of the group’s footprint. These dealerships, collectively, have long been regarded as pillars of excellence in the state’s automotive landscape.
But beyond the bricks, mortar, and brand banners, what set Tom Dinsdale Automotive apart was its unwavering commitment to community service. Over the years, the group has directly supported more than 80 charitable organizations, becoming a staple at events such as the Nebraska State Fair and a major supporter of institutions like Hastings College, Grand Island Central Catholic, Hastings St. Cecelia, and Heartland United Way. The Dinsdale family’s philanthropy, through both corporate sponsorship and personal engagement, helped forge enduring relationships with thousands of customers and civic leaders alike.
With this sale to The Rydell Company, a highly respected automotive retail organization headquartered in the Midwest, the Dinsdale legacy will continue under new stewardship. The Rydell Company traces its roots back to the 1940s, when Leonard Rydell launched his first dealership in Minnesota. Under the leadership of his son, Wes Rydell, the company has expanded methodically over the decades and now comprises over 80 dealerships operating across 17 states. While the Rydell network shares a common philosophy focused on integrity and entrepreneurial ownership, it does not operate under a single corporate umbrella—each dealership maintains its own identity and leadership, fostering accountability and local pride.
John Davis, Managing Director at Haig Partners, played a pivotal role in guiding the Dinsdale family through the transaction process. Reflecting on the experience, Davis said, “It was an honor to work with Tom and Kim Dinsdale on this milestone transition. They have built an impressive business that is deeply integrated into the fabric of their communities. Our goal was to find a buyer that not only recognized the value of the business but also respected the Dinsdales’ legacy of service, quality, and community engagement. The Rydell Company was a natural fit. Their reputation for integrity and long-term investment aligns perfectly with the values that have defined the Dinsdale brand.”
Tom Dinsdale echoed these sentiments in a heartfelt statement about the decision to sell. “This was not an easy decision,” he admitted. “But after a great deal of reflection, my family and I decided that this was the right moment to retire from the automotive business. I will always be incredibly proud of what we built—from our amazing team members to the long-standing relationships with our customers and neighbors. I’d like to thank James Anderson and Matt Peppmuller of Forvis Mazars, who introduced us to John Davis and the team at Haig Partners. From our very first meeting, we felt completely at ease. John and Erik Haig truly listened, understood our goals, and developed a compelling marketing strategy that helped attract an outstanding buyer. We’re confident that our employees and customers are in excellent hands with the Rydell team.”
The sale process was smooth and collaborative, thanks to the professionalism of all parties involved. In addition to Haig Partners, the Dinsdales were represented legally by Holland & Knight LLP, with Stephen Dietrich, Sarah Seeding, and Anna Ayar providing expert counsel throughout the transaction. Forvis Mazars’ advisors James Anderson and Matt Peppmuller also supported the sellers with closing assistance and financial services.
This acquisition adds valuable scale and geographical coverage to The Rydell Company’s growing portfolio while reinforcing its commitment to expanding in the heartland of America. It also brings the Dinsdale dealerships into a network that supports entrepreneurial dealership operators through shared values, operational excellence, and local leadership.
The transaction also highlights broader trends in the auto retail M&A landscape. As 2025 unfolds, market conditions for buy-sell activity continue to improve. After a relatively quiet first quarter marked by economic uncertainty and tariff concerns, both buyers and sellers are now more active. While dealership profitability has moderated from the record highs seen during and immediately after the COVID-19 pandemic, valuations remain historically strong. Many dealers, particularly those nearing retirement, are choosing to sell in order to capitalize on these high valuations before further economic shifts occur.
Haig Partners has been at the center of this activity, leveraging its deep industry expertise and extensive buyer network to deliver optimal outcomes for its clients. The firm continues to advise on some of the most significant auto retail transactions in the country, helping clients maximize the value of their businesses while ensuring cultural and operational alignment with prospective buyers.
For the Dinsdale family, this transaction marks the close of an important chapter—but it is by no means the end of their community involvement. They remain committed to Central Nebraska and plan to continue supporting charitable initiatives and other business interests across the state. And, as Tom noted with a smile, he’s not planning to miss many Cornhusker football games.
In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive retail, this transaction stands out as a model of values-driven succession planning, where legacy, community, and business excellence converge. Thanks to the efforts of Haig Partners, The Rydell Company, and a host of trusted advisors, the future looks bright for the dealerships in Grand Island and Hastings—and the communities they continue to serve.
