Group 1 Automotive Continues Nationwide Brand Alignment with Group 1 Ford of Kennesaw in Kennesaw.

Former Jim Tidwell Ford location is among the dealerships now operating under the unified Group 1 brand

KENNESAW, Ga., Jun. 17, 2026, /PRNewswire/ — As part of its ongoing nationwide initiative to unify its extensive network of dealerships, Group 1 Automotive, Inc. ( NYSE: GPI ), a Houston-based automotive retailer with dealerships across the U.S. and U.K., today highlighted Group 1 Ford of Kennesaw, formerly Jim Tidwell Ford, which has operated under its new name since October 27, 2025.

The Kennesaw dealership is one of a growing number of U.S. locations aligned under the initiative, giving customers a clearer connection to Group 1’s scale, resources, and operational standards while preserving the local team, Ford expertise, and customer relationships that have served the metro Atlanta area for nearly two decades.

Despite its size as an international automotive retailer, Group 1 Automotive continues to operate its dealerships as local businesses and remains committed to supporting customers, employees, and the broader Kennesaw and metro Atlanta region. For more information about Group 1 Automotive and its commitment to local communities, visit Group1Auto.com.

Better Customer Experience

The transition from Jim Tidwell Ford to Group 1 Ford of Kennesaw is part of a broader effort to create a more consistent customer experience across Group 1’s U.S. retail network. The rebrand did not represent a change in ownership, staffing, product offerings, or day-to-day operations, and customers have continued to work with the same local professionals under the new name.

Group 1 Automotive has owned and operated the Kennesaw dealership for nearly two decades. The new name formally connects the location to Group 1’s national platform, giving local customers the benefit of a familiar Kennesaw dealership supported by the resources, technology, and operational discipline of a larger automotive group.

“Since taking our new name, our customers have found the same local team they know and trust, now with a clearer connection to the strength and resources of Group 1,” said Skye Bardill, General Manager of Group 1 Ford of Kennesaw. “The name on the building changed, but what matters here has not: a consistent, convenient, and transparent experience, whether someone is shopping for a new Ford, servicing their current vehicle, or considering a trade-in.”

Continuity of Service and Local Commitment

Group 1 Ford of Kennesaw continues to serve customers from its existing location at 2205 Barrett Lakes Boulevard in Kennesaw, Georgia, supporting drivers throughout Kennesaw, Marietta, Acworth, and surrounding metro Atlanta communities with new Ford vehicles, pre-owned vehicles, Ford service, parts, and maintenance support.

The dealership remains focused on the same local relationships that defined Jim Tidwell Ford, while gaining a clearer connection to Group 1’s broader retail network. Customers can expect continuity in the sales and service experience, along with the added benefit of a unified Group 1 brand that makes locations easier to recognize, find, and trust across markets.

Additional Customer Questions

Why did Jim Tidwell Ford change its name to Group 1 Ford of Kennesaw?

• Jim Tidwell Ford became Group 1 Ford of Kennesaw on October 27, 2025 as part of Group 1 Automotive’s effort to create a clearer, more consistent naming structure across its U.S. dealerships. The new name reflects the dealership’s connection to Group 1 while continuing to serve customers in Kennesaw and the surrounding metro Atlanta communities. As part of the Group 1 network — 250 dealerships offering 37 vehicle brands — the dealership connects customers to new and pre-owned sales, financing, service, parts, and collision support, with a consistent experience from transparent pricing to online scheduling at every Group 1 store.

Should I service my vehicle at the dealership or an independent shop?

• Dealership service departments employ factory-trained technicians, use manufacturer diagnostic equipment, and typically install OEM parts, and they can perform warranty and recall work. Independent shops may offer lower prices on some services. The right choice often depends on the repair type, warranty status, and the owner’s preference.

How can shoppers find a specific Ford F-150 in stock?

• Most dealership websites offer searchable live inventory filtered by trim, cab style, drivetrain, and features, and many allow shoppers to reserve an in-transit truck or request a locate from other stores in the dealer network. Contacting the dealership directly can also surface inbound inventory not yet listed online.

What documents help secure auto financing with limited or challenged credit?

• Lenders typically ask for proof of income such as recent pay stubs, proof of residence, a valid driver’s license, and references, and may weigh down payment size more heavily for challenged credit. Dealerships that work with a broad lender network can often match a credit profile to a suitable program.

About Group 1 Automotive, Inc.

Group 1 owns and operates 250 automotive dealerships, 310 franchises, and 32 collision centers in the United States and the United Kingdom that offer 37 brands of automobiles. Through its dealerships and omni-channel platform, the Company sells new and used cars and light trucks; arranges related vehicle financing; sells service and insurance contracts; provides automotive maintenance and repair services; and sells vehicle parts.