Taylor Automotive Family, a Toledo-based automotive dealership group with operations across Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan, has transitioned to 100% employee ownership through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), marking a major milestone for the company and its hundreds of employees.
Lazear Capital Partners (Lazear) served as the exclusive financial advisor on the ESOP transaction, which was structured to preserve Taylor Automotive’s legacy while supporting continued growth. The engagement was led by Managing Director Todd Goldman with support from Managing Director Tyler Kennedy.
“Employee-owned companies are built to align employees with both the success of the business and the customer experience they deliver,” shared Goldman. “An ESOP creates a structure that supports engagement, retention, and long-term alignment across the organization, helping the company remain competitive and positioned for continued growth.
An ESOP is a retirement plan that gives employees a direct ownership stake in the company, aligning their interests with long-term growth and success. It also reinforces Taylor Automotive’s culture of accountability and commitment to its dealership and collision center employees and the communities served.
“This ownership transition honors those who have driven the vision and values of Taylor Automotive forward,” said Stephen D. Taylor, founder. “Becoming 100% employee-owned is not just a business decision; it reflects our ‘family first’ philosophy and strengthens our connection and commitment to the people and places that matter most.”
Founded in 1979, Taylor Automotive has grown from a single dealership in downtown Toledo into one of the region’s larger dealership groups, which includes Taylor Cadillac, Taylor Kia of Toledo, Taylor Hyundai of Toledo, Taylor Hyundai of Perrysburg, Taylor Kia of Findlay, Taylor Hyundai of Findlay, and Taylor Kia-Lima.
The National Center for Employee Ownership reports continued growth in ESOP adoption across industries. With this transition, Taylor Automotive joins a growing group of auto dealerships embracing employee ownership to reward employees, drive performance, and preserve independence.
About Lazear
Lazear Capital Partners is a nationally recognized investment banking and ownership transition advisory firm serving middle-market businesses. The firm specializes in Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs), proprietary Section 1042 tax strategies, and mergers and acquisitions.
Since 1999, Lazear has advised on more than 350 ownership transition transactions and expanded to 19 locations nationwide. Through its multidisciplinary team of CPAs and CFA Charterholders, attorneys, valuation professionals, and transaction advisors, Lazear helps business owners maximize value while preserving their legacy.
To learn more, visit www.lazearcapital.com and follow Lazear on LinkedIn.
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