Brickell Motors

The Evolution of Brickell Motors: A Miami Success Story Brickell Motors represents one of the most compelling narratives in the South Florida automotive landscape. While the group traces its roots back to 1983, its modern trajectory was forged in 2001 when Mario Murgado, along with partners Alex Andreus and Rick Barraza, acquired underperforming Honda and GMC dealerships in Miami’s iconic Little Havana district on Calle Ocho. At the time of acquisition, the operations were struggling, yet Murgado saw an opportunity to revitalize a historic site that had been a staple of the community since 1935. The transformation of Brickell Motors from a localized distressed asset into a foundational component of the broader Murgado Automotive Group is a study in multi-rooftop governance. By prioritizing facility upgrades, employee retention, and a culture of customer service, the leadership team scaled the business from a handful of employees to a workforce exceeding 500 professionals. Today, the group is recognized not just for its sales volume, but for its role as a major economic driver in the Miami metropolitan area. ## Geographic Footprint and Strategic Expansion Initially concentrated in Miami, the Brickell Motors footprint has expanded significantly over the last two decades. The group’s strategy is characterized by identifying high-growth markets and distressed or family-owned assets that can be optimized through superior operational protocols. ### Florida Core Operations The heart of the organization remains in Miami, specifically the Little Havana and Miami Beach corridors. The acquisition of Ocean Cadillac in Miami Beach served as a milestone, marking the group's ability to take over long-standing family businesses and increase sales performance by as much as 45 percent within a short window. Beyond Miami, the group established a strong presence in Stuart, Florida, approximately 100 miles north, housing brands like Infiniti and Audi. ### National Integration In 2017, Brickell Motors signaled its transition from a regional player to a national contender. This expansion included: Chicago, IL: Acquisition of Honda and Volkswagen rooftops, marking the group’s first major move into the Midwest market. Jacksonville, FL: The addition of a Bentley franchise, further diversifying the group's luxury portfolio. Mid-Atlantic and Beyond: Current estimates suggest the group now oversees 18 rooftops across 5 states, including planned expansions in the Alfa Romeo and Maserati segments. ## Brand Portfolio and OEM Relationships Brickell Motors maintains a diverse brand portfolio that balances high-volume import brands with domestic workhorses and ultra-luxury badges. This diversification allows the group to weather economic shifts in specific market segments. ### Volume and Domestic Partners Honda: The foundation of the 2001 acquisition and a consistent top performer in the Mi...