After a busy final week of June, transaction activity remained elevated in the first week of July in trucking’s dealer, aftermarket and supplier sectors. Yet as the month continued the pace slowed to more normal levels.
No channel was noticeably more active than others in the month.
Four Star Freightliner was the first company to announce an expansion, reporting on July 1 its purchase of Western Star of Dothan. “We’re excited to bring on the team from Western Star of Dothan,” said Jerry Kocan, dealer principal of Four Star Freightliner. “They come from a family-owned and operated business, which aligns closely with our values. At Four Star, we take pride in being a family-oriented company. These are good people, and we are committed to making this transition seamless. They are becoming part of our family.”
Also on July 1 was PHINIA’s announcement of its definitive agreement to purchase stoba Group, a global tech partner specialized in high-precision components, systems and customized manufacturing solutions. “The stoba Group is a well-established supplier within PHINIA’s ecosystem, and the acquisition marks an important step in enhancing PHINIA’s supply chain resilience and product portfolio,” said Brady Ericson, president and CEO of PHINIA. “The stoba Group brings to PHINIA high-precision engineering and advanced manufacturing expertise.”
A few days later the newly branded Road Warrior, previously known as Commercial Truck and Trailer Parts, announced its purchase of LASCO Heavy Duty in Kentucky, Mid-States Tire and Retread in Missouri and Colton Truck Terminal Garage in California. “We’re honored to have the opportunity to bring together a group of like-minded individuals with a common goal — providing high-quality, heavy-duty solutions to customers,” said Joe Petosa, partner at Sope Creek Capital and Road Warrior CFO.
The leasing space was the sight of the next announcement, as Eagle Leasing announced its intent to consolidate its multiple operations under a single brand entity. The move followed a 2025 acquisition that expanded the company network. Eagle Leasing has locations across the Northeast, with stores in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Jersey and New York. “Every customer receives one-on-one service from a knowledgeable, local sales representative,” the company stated after the news.
On July 23, Amerit Fleet Services announced it acquired Kirk NationLease and Truck & Trailer Parts Solutions, adding 19 total locations. “These acquisitions reflect our continued commitment to investing in resources that create greater value for our customers,” said Ross Rachey, CEO of Amerit. “KNL and TTPS have built outstanding reputations by putting customers first for more than five decades. Their talented teams, strong culture and operational excellence make them an exceptional fit for Amerit as we continue expanding our nationwide platform.”
As the month closed, Kerry Brothers Truck Repair announced the acquisitions of three operations: Kustom Truck & Trailer, Vehicle Clinic and Downriver Truck and Bus. “This is a defining moment for Kerry Brothers,” said Bill Kerry, owner Kerry Brothers Truck Repair. “We are expanding in every direction, growing our footprint, the range of vehicles we service and the customers we can support, from heavy-duty trucks and trailers to mass transit and school buses. We are building the kind of maintenance partner Southeast Michigan deserves.”
