RALEIGH, N.C. (WHKY) – Capital Automotive Group is expanding its footprint in western North Carolina by acquiring six dealerships formerly owned by the Cloninger family, including Cloninger Ford of Hickory and Cloninger Ford of Morganton. The acquisition, announced on September 30, also encompasses dealerships in Salisbury and Florence, South Carolina, and a collision center.
For customers and employees in Hickory and Morganton, the transition aims to maintain continuity by retaining familiar employees and local relationships while integrating the resources of Capital Automotive Group. Tim Michael of Capital and Larry Cloninger have had a friendship and professional relationship spanning over 40 years.
Michael emphasized that this long-standing connection made the acquisition particularly special, while Cloninger expressed his confidence in the Michael family to uphold the legacy he established. Capital Automotive Group plans to continue the Cloninger philosophy of “Just Better,” focusing on employees, customers, and the community.
The company’s announcement highlights how this acquisition not only broadens Capital Automotive Group’s reach in North Carolina and South Carolina but also signifies a new chapter for both multigenerational automotive families working together.
