The Canadian automotive dealership M&A market continued its strong momentum through Q1 2026, with elevated transaction volume across all major franchise categories and geographies.
Key Highlights — Q1 2026
- Transaction volume up 12% year-over-year in Ontario and BC
- Average time-to-close: 8.2 months (down from 10.1 months in 2025)
- Japanese franchise multiples holding at 5x–7x pre-tax earnings
- Domestic franchise activity surging in Western Canada
- PE-backed buyer groups representing 28% of deal acquirers
What Sellers Need to Know
Qualified buyers are active and capitalized. Sellers who have clean financials, OEM-compliant facilities, and realistic price expectations are closing faster than at any point in the past five years.
What Buyers Need to Know
Competition for quality assets is increasing. Buyers who have pre-arranged financing, existing OEM approvals, and clear acquisition criteria are winning the deals. Off-market access — through advisors like Coussa Group — remains the primary advantage for serious acquirers.