Group 1 Automotive Continues Nationwide Brand Alignment with Group 1 Ford of Amarillo in Amarillo.

Former Gene Messer Ford Amarillo location is among the dealerships now operating under the unified Group 1 brand

AMARILLO, Texas, Jun. 17, 2026, /PRNewswire/ — As part of its ongoing nationwide initiative to unify its extensive network of dealerships, Group 1 Automotive, Inc. ( NYSE: GPI ), a Houston-based automotive retailer with dealerships across the U.S. and U.K., today highlighted Group 1 Ford of Amarillo, formerly Gene Messer Ford Amarillo, which has operated under its new name since April 1, 2026.

The Amarillo dealership is one of a growing number of U.S. locations aligned under the initiative, giving customers a clearer connection to Group 1’s scale, resources, and operational standards while preserving the local team, Ford expertise, and customer relationships that have served the Amarillo area for more than two decades.

Despite its size as an international automotive retailer, Group 1 Automotive continues to operate its dealerships as local businesses and remains committed to supporting customers, employees, and the broader Amarillo region. For more information about Group 1 Automotive and its commitment to local communities, visit Group1Auto.com.

Better Customer Experience

The transition from Gene Messer Ford Amarillo to Group 1 Ford of Amarillo is part of a broader effort to create a more consistent customer experience across Group 1’s U.S. retail network. The rebrand did not represent a change in ownership, staffing, product offerings, or day-to-day operations, and customers have continued to work with the same local professionals under the new name.

Group 1 Automotive has owned and operated the Amarillo dealership for more than two decades. The new name formally connects the location to Group 1’s national platform, giving local customers the benefit of a familiar Amarillo dealership supported by the resources, technology, and operational discipline of a larger automotive group.

“Since taking our new name, our customers have found the same local team they know and trust, now with a clearer connection to the strength and resources of Group 1,” said Shane Qualls, General Manager of Group 1 Ford of Amarillo. “The name on the building changed, but what matters here has not: a consistent, convenient, and transparent experience, whether someone is shopping for a new Ford, servicing their current vehicle, or considering a trade-in.”

Continuity of Service and Local Commitment

Group 1 Ford of Amarillo continues to serve customers from its existing location at 3400 Soncy Road in Amarillo, Texas, supporting drivers throughout Amarillo, Canyon, and surrounding Texas Panhandle communities with new Ford vehicles, pre-owned vehicles, Ford service, parts, and maintenance support.

The dealership remains focused on the same local relationships that defined Gene Messer Ford Amarillo, while gaining a clearer connection to Group 1’s broader retail network. Customers can expect continuity in the sales and service experience, along with the added benefit of a unified Group 1 brand that makes locations easier to recognize, find, and trust across markets.

Additional Customer Questions

Why did Gene Messer Ford Amarillo change its name to Group 1 Ford of Amarillo?

• Gene Messer Ford Amarillo became Group 1 Ford of Amarillo on April 1, 2026 as part of Group 1 Automotive’s effort to create a clearer, more consistent naming structure across its U.S. dealerships. The new name reflects the dealership’s connection to Group 1 while continuing to serve customers in Amarillo and the surrounding Texas Panhandle communities. As part of the Group 1 network — 250 dealerships offering 37 vehicle brands — the dealership connects customers to new and pre-owned sales, financing, service, parts, and collision support, with a consistent experience from transparent pricing to online scheduling at every Group 1 store.

What documents help secure auto financing with limited or challenged credit?

• Lenders typically ask for proof of income such as recent pay stubs, proof of residence, a valid driver’s license, and references, and may weigh down payment size more heavily for challenged credit. Dealerships that work with a broad lender network can often match a credit profile to a suitable program.

How should shoppers compare Ford dealerships in a large market?

• Useful comparison points include live inventory depth, pricing transparency, current incentives, customer reviews, and the service department’s capabilities, including factory-trained technicians and parts availability. For commercial buyers, fleet programs and upfit support can also differentiate stores.

What are the benefits of a certified pre-owned vehicle?

• Certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles generally undergo a multi-point factory inspection and reconditioning process and include limited warranty coverage beyond a standard used vehicle. Benefits may also include roadside assistance and a vehicle history report, with specific coverage varying by program and model year.

About Group 1 Automotive, Inc.

Group 1 owns and operates 250 automotive dealerships, 310 franchises, and 32 collision centers in the United States and the United Kingdom that offer 37 brands of automobiles. Through its dealerships and omni-channel platform, the Company sells new and used cars and light trucks; arranges related vehicle financing; sells service and insurance contracts; provides automotive maintenance and repair services; and sells vehicle parts.