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

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

COLUMBUS, 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 Rivertown, formerly Rivertown Ford, which has operated under its new name since September 15, 2025.

The Columbus 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 Chattahoochee Valley for more than a decade.

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 Columbus region. For more information about Group 1 Automotive and its commitment to local communities, visit Group1Auto.com.

Better Customer Experience

The transition from Rivertown Ford to Group 1 Ford of Rivertown 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 Columbus dealership for more than a decade. The new name formally connects the location to Group 1’s national platform, giving local customers the benefit of a familiar Columbus 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 LT Gulley, General Manager of Group 1 Ford of Rivertown. “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 Rivertown continues to serve customers from its existing location at 1680 Whittlesey Road in Columbus, Georgia, supporting drivers throughout Columbus, Phenix City, Opelika, and surrounding Georgia and Alabama 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 Rivertown 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 Rivertown Ford change its name to Group 1 Ford of Rivertown?

• Rivertown Ford became Group 1 Ford of Rivertown on September 15, 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 Columbus and the surrounding Chattahoochee Valley 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.

Gas, hybrid, or electric: which powertrain is right for me?

• The right powertrain depends on driving patterns, budget, and charging access. Hybrids generally deliver higher fuel economy without changing refueling habits, electric vehicles offer the lowest running costs for drivers who can charge regularly, and gas models often carry lower upfront prices. Comparing total ownership costs for a specific commute is a useful starting point.

Can I service my vehicle at any dealership, even if I bought it elsewhere?

• Yes. Franchised dealerships generally service their brand’s vehicles regardless of where the vehicle was purchased, including warranty and recall work for that brand. Many dealership service departments also perform routine maintenance on other makes.

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.

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.