From the NFL, MLB, NBA and NASCAR to Car Lots: Athletes Invest in and Build Dealership Empires

DCG in Automotive News

From the NFL, MLB, NBA and NASCAR to Car Lots: Athletes Invest in and Build Dealership Empires

This Automotive News piece traces the rise of professional athletes moving from dealership spokespeople to owners — from Orel Hershiser buying into a Chino, Calif. Chevrolet store to Nick Saban’s Dream Motor Group, Jamal Mashburn’s MAP Automotive, Keenan Allen, Kyle Busch, Barry Sanders, John Elway, Karl Malone, Joey Logano, and Michael Jordan.

Dave Cantin Group’s contributions anchor this analysis: CEO Dave Cantin provides the “why” behind the trend, explaining that athletes are drawn to dealerships over other investments like restaurants or hospitality because the business gives them the same competitive, high-stakes feeling as their sport.

“Many athletes find the dealership environment more engaging than other investment opportunities they consider such as restaurants or hospitality. Auto retail allows them to feel like they are still competing at a high level.”

— Dave Cantin, CEO, Dave Cantin Group

Brian Gordon, president of Dave Cantin Group, frames the trend as athletes participating on a spectrum from passive investor to hands-on operator, and notes that DCG created its Athlete Investment Services practice to advise both dealership groups and athletes on these partnerships (learn more, here). Gordon also points out that a hometown athlete’s local ties can build community trust in unique ways.

“Competition between local dealerships is intense. Athletes with a connection to a specific city or state — as opposed to a celebrity with national appeal — can resonate with communities in a special way. A hometown athlete can bring trust and authenticity to a dealership.”

— Brian Gordon, President, Dave Cantin Group

Thanks to reporter Paige Hodder for a terrific article!