By JAMES FINK
jfink@bizjournals.com | 716-541-1611

West Herr Automotive Group is entering the Rochester market by acquiring that area's only Mercedes-Benz and BMW dealerships.

West Herr has signed a contingent agreement with Rochester businessman John Holtz to acquire Mercedes-Benz of Rochester and BMW of Rochester dealerships. Both are on West Henrietta Road. The deal is scheduled to take effect Oct. 11.

"We're looking forward to doing business in such a diverse, historic and warm community," said Scott Bieler, West Herr president.

The deal opens the door for the 60-year-old company to enter the Rochester market and further cement its position as the state's largest auto dealership. It also would give Orchard Park-based West Herr its first Mercedes-Benz and BMW dealerships.

"Mercedes-Benz and BMW are two of the top brands available," Bieler said.

West Herr sells 20 brands of cars at 13 local dealerships. Among the makes are Buick, Chevrolet, Jeep, Jaguar and Toyota. It also has two dealerships that exclusively sell used cars.

All of the dealerships are in Erie County, except for the Honda showroom on Transit Road in Lockport.

The company sold 26,591 retail vehicles last year and has 1,100 employees. It is listed as the 22nd largest auto dealership in the country.

The deal will give West Herr another 60 employees.

Bieler said he anticipates expanding both dealerships. John Holtz's dealership roots date to 1977.

"This transaction is a strategic ‘win-win' for both operations," Holtz said.