A Detroit metro area auto dealership sold this month in a nearby auto retail family’s first expansion.

LaLonde Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Imlay City north of Detroit, sold to Paul LaFontaine, owner of a Ford dealership less than a mile away, who renamed it Imlay City Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram.

The transaction was brokered by the Tim Lamb Group, led by Director Bob Wolfbauer.

Seller Tania LaLonde decided to “focus on other automotive ventures in Metro Detroit,” Tim Lamb Group said.

LaFontaine picked up her store to grow his business with the help of this three children, who are active in the Ford dealership the family has operated for more than 35 years.

“Acquiring this dealership was a natural next step – and what better investment than expanding in a community we already know and love?” said LaFontaine. 

The 35,000-square-foot Stellantis-brands dealership includes an 18-bay service center and car wash. The LaFontaines have added a used-car lot and plan more improvements to be unveiled at a reopening event later this year.

Most employees of the store have stayed on to work for LaFontaine, Tim Lamb Group said.

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