Business & Tech
Bellevue-based O’Brien Auto Group Acquires Bob Bridge Toyota Scion of Renton
Bellevue-based auto group to carry on Bridge's commitment to Renton customers and community; plans to keep existing employees in addition to hiring new ones.
In December Patch reported on the — one of the most-recognized businesses in Renton and a nine-time winner of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. Inc.’s President Award for outstanding sales and service — to the Bellevue-based O’brien Auto Group.
This week the two parties finalized the sale, according to a press release issued Friday morning. Although financial details were not made public, O’Brien has already begun operating as, according to the press release. The company also announced that the company will retain all existing employees, with plans to add more jobs in 2012, the press release stated.
“Over the past 31 years, Mr. Bridge has built one of the most-respected dealerships in the country and been a great champion for the Renton community,” said Mike O’Brien, owner of the O’Brien Auto Group in a prepared statement.
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“We look forward to building on that tradition under the O’Brien brand and are committed to making a positive impact within the Renton community,” said O'Brien, who lives on Mercer Island.
The Bellevue-based company, which owns and 11 other Washington dealerships, made a $25,500 donation to the Friends of Renton Schools program during a VIP luncheon at Renton High School on Feb. 28.
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At the end of last year, upon news of the sale, Bridge also said he’d remain involved in the School District. And now he’s coming through on that promise. Bridge also announced a donation of $25,000 at this week’s luncheon.
We are extremely fortunate to have the support of these two men and their companies," said Friends of Renton Schools Chair Pam Teal, said in a prepared statement. "Mr. Bridge and Mr. O'Brien are two outstanding business people who understand the value of giving back to the community. The money they contributed this week will be put to use in the programs that have a proven track record of directly impacting the achievement of students in the Renton School District."
The Bellevue-based O'Brien Auto Group owns 12 Washington auto dealerships, and three dealerships in Oregon.
Additional reporting by Kendall Watson and Venice Buhain
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