Macon-based Butler Automotive Group Expands with Acquisition of Bulldog Kia in Athens

Haig Partners LLC, the leading buy-sell advisory firm for auto, heavy truck, and RV dealers in the U.S., successfully advised the sale of Bulldog Kia to Butler Automotive Group. The dealership, located in Athens, GA, was owned by David Kernall and James Hammond. The acquisition adds to Butler Automotive Group’s growing portfolio, which now includes 15 dealerships across Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida. Butler Automotive Group is led by brothers Marsh and Morris Butler, based in Macon, GA.

David Kernall initially partnered with Jim Keffer of Keffer Auto Group to purchase Bulldog Kia in 2010. Kernall and James Hammond gained full ownership in 2020 through Keffer’s “GM-to-owner” buyout program. Under Kernall’s leadership, Bulldog Kia became a top-performing dealership in Georgia, known for supporting local charities, including Extra Special People, Breast Cancer Awareness, and Sparrow’s Nest Athens.

Reflecting on the sale, Kernall expressed pride in his time with Bulldog Kia and its impact on the community. “My journey at Bulldog Kia has been immensely fulfilling,” Kernall said. “I’ve had the pleasure of serving customers in the Athens area for well over a decade. My proudest achievements have been the charitable work my team has done around the Athens community and the tight-knit family of employees that we’ve fostered at Bulldog Kia.”

He also praised Haig Partners for their role in the transaction. “Derek Garber and Markus Haig understood the unique values and culture we’ve built at Bulldog Kia. For me, it wasn’t just about finding a buyer; it was about finding the right steward to carry on our same level of commitment to our customers, community, and employees,” Kernall added.

Marsh Butler, co-owner of Butler Automotive Group, expressed excitement about the acquisition of their first Kia dealership. “We are excited to add Bulldog Kia to our growing company that is committed to providing an excellent customer experience and building a close family of team members,” said Butler. “We look forward to serving the Athens community and upholding the legacy that David and James have built.”

Haig Partners Vice President, Derek Garber, highlighted the growing demand for Kia dealerships, despite market changes. “This sale not only reflects the high demand for Kia dealerships but also aligns with our commitment to facilitating transactions that honor the seller’s legacy and community impact,” Garber said.

The transaction marks another milestone in Butler Automotive Group’s expansion across the Southeast.

The team at Haig Partners has been involved in the purchase or sale of 13 Kia stores nationwide, and the
sale of Bulldog Kia represents the 210th dealership the team has bought or sold in the Southeast region.
Most recently in the Southeast, Haig Partners advised on the sales of Duval Motor Company, Hollywood
Kia, Greenway of the Shoals, Toyota of North Charlotte, South Motors / Vista Motors and Vic Bailey
Automotive.