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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
☒
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024
or
☐
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from to
Commission file number: 001-31262
ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE GROUP, INC.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
01-0609375
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
2905 Premiere Parkway, NW, Suite 300
Duluth, Georgia
30097
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)
(770) 418-8200
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Trading
Title of each class
Symbol(s)
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common stock, $0.01 par value per share
ABG
New York Stock Exchange
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None.
a
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes x No o
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes o No x
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the
preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past
90 days. Yes x No o
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Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted
pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and
post such files). Yes x No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth
company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company," and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large Accelerated Filer
☒
Accelerated Filer
☐
Non-Accelerated Filer
☐
Smaller Reporting Company
☐
Emerging Growth Company
☐
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised
financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of
the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C.
7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ☒
If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the
correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the
registrant’s executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). ☐
Indicate by check mark whether registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No x
Based on the closing price of the registrant's common stock as of June 30, 2024, the aggregate market value of the common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant
was $4.52 billion (based upon the assumption, solely for purposes of this computation, that all of the officers and directors of the registrant were affiliates of the registrant).
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date: The number of shares of common stock
outstanding as of February 24, 2025 was 19,645,447.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
List hereunder the following documents if incorporated by reference and the Part of the Form 10-K into which the document is incorporated:
Portions of the registrant's definitive Proxy Statement for the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, to be filed within 120 days after the end of the registrant's fiscal year,
are incorporated by reference into Part III, Items 10 through 14 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
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ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE GROUP, INC.
ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
FOR THE YEAR ENDED
DECEMBER 31, 2024
Page
PART I
Item 1.
Business
6
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
18
Item 1B.
Unresolved Staff Comments
31
Item 1C.
Cybersecurity
31
Item 2.
Properties
33
Item 3.
Legal Proceedings
33
Item 4.
Mine Safety Disclosures
34
PART II
Item 5.
Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
35
Item 6.
Reserved
37
Item 7.
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
37
Item 7A.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
66
Item 8.
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
68
Item 9.
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
120
Item 9A.
Controls and Procedures
120
Item 9B.
Other Information
121
Item 9C.
Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections
121
PART III
Item 10.
Directors, Executive Officers, and Corporate Governance
122
Item 11.
Executive Compensation
122
Item 12.
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
122
Item 13.
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
122
Item 14.
Principal Accountant Fees and Services
122
PART IV
Item 15.
Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
123
Item 16.
Form 10-K Summary
127
SIGNATURES
128
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PART I.
Forward-Looking Information
Certain of the discussions and information included or incorporated by reference in this report may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the
meaning of the federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical in nature and may include statements relating to our
goals, plans and projections regarding industry and general economic trends, our expected financial position, results of operations or market position and our
business strategy. Such statements can generally be identified by words such as "may," "target," "could," "would," "will," "should," "believe," "expect,"
"anticipate," "plan," "intend," "foresee," and other similar words or phrases. Forward-looking statements may also relate to our expectations and assumptions
with respect to, among other things:
•
the seasonally adjusted annual rate of new vehicle sales in the United States;
•
general economic conditions and its expected impact on our revenue and expenses;
•
our expected parts and service revenue due to, among other things, improvements in vehicle technology;
•
our ability to limit our exposure to regional economic downturns due to our geographic diversity and brand mix;
•
manufacturers' continued use of incentive programs to drive demand for their product offerings;
•
our capital allocation strategy, including as it relates to acquisitions and divestitures, stock repurchases and capital expenditures;
•
our revenue growth strategy;
•
the growth of the brands that comprise our portfolio over the long-term;
•
disruptions in the production and supply of vehicles and parts from our vehicle and parts manufacturers and other suppliers, which can disrupt our
operations; and
•
our estimated future capital expenditures, which can be impacted by increasing prices and labor shortages and acquisitions and divestitures.
Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual future results, performance or
achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such
factors include, but are not limited to:
•
the ability to acquire and successfully integrate acquired businesses into our existing operations and realize expected benefits and synergies from
such acquisitions;
•
the effects of increased expenses or unanticipated liabilities incurred as a result of, or due to activities related to our acquisitions or divestitures;
•
changes in general economic and business conditions, including the current inflationary environment, the current interest rate environment, changes
in U.S. trade policy, including the imposition of tariffs, changes in employment levels, consumer confidence levels, consumer demand and
preferences, the availability and cost of credit, fuel prices and levels of discretionary personal income;
•
our ability to generate sufficient cash flows, maintain our liquidity and obtain any necessary additional funds for working capital, capital
expenditures, acquisitions, stock repurchases, debt maturity payments and other corporate purposes, if necessary or desirable;
•
significant disruptions in the production and delivery of vehicles and parts for any reason, including supply shortages, the ongoing conflict in Russia
and Ukraine, including any government sanctions imposed in connection therewith, natural disasters, severe weather, civil unrest, product recalls,
work stoppages or other occurrences that are outside of our control;
•
our ability to successfully attract and retain skilled employees;
•
our ability to successfully operate, including our ability to maintain, and obtain future necessary regulatory approvals, for Total Care Auto, Powered
by Landcar ("TCA"), our finance and insurance ("F&I ") product provider;
•
adverse conditions affecting the vehicle manufacturers whose brands we sell, and their ability to design, manufacture, deliver and market their
vehicles successfully;
•
changes in the mix and total number of vehicles we are able to sell;
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•
our outstanding indebtedness and our continued ability to comply with applicable covenants in our various financing and lease agreements, or to
obtain waivers of these covenants as necessary;
•
high levels of competition in our industry, which may create pricing and margin pressures on our products and services;
•
our relationships with manufacturers of the vehicles we sell and our ability to renew, and enter into new framework and dealer agreements with
vehicle manufacturers whose brands we sell, on terms acceptable to us;
•
the availability of manufacturer incentive programs and our ability to earn these incentives;
•
failure of our, or those of our third-party service providers, management information systems and our ability to successfully transition between key
information systems, including dealer management systems;
•
any data security breaches occurring, including with regard to personally identifiable information ("PII");
•
changes in laws and regulations governing the operation of automobile franchises, including trade restrictions, consumer protections, accounting
standards, taxation requirements and environmental laws;
•
changes in, or the imposition of, new tariffs or trade restrictions on imported vehicles or parts;
•
adverse results from litigation, regulatory investigations or other similar proceedings involving us, including costs, expenses, settlements and
judgments related thereto;
•
our ability to consummate planned or pending mergers, acquisitions and dispositions;
•
any disruptions in the financial markets, which may impact our ability to access capital;
•
our relationships with, and the financial stability of, our lenders and lessors;
•
our ability to execute our initiatives and other strategies;
•
our ability to leverage scale and cost structure to improve operating efficiencies across our dealership portfolio; and
•
our ability to remediate material weakness and the ongoing effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting.
Many of these factors are beyond our ability to control or predict, and their ultimate impact could be material. Moreover, the factors set forth under "Item
1A. Risk Factors" and "Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" below and other cautionary
statements made in this report should be read and considered as forward-looking statements subject to such uncertainties. We urge you to carefully consider
those factors.
Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this report. We expressly disclaim any obligation to update any forward-looking statement
contained herein.
Additional Information
Our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and any amendments to such reports filed pursuant to
Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, are made available free of charge on our website at http://www.asburyauto.com as soon as
practical after such reports are filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission"). In addition, the proxy statement that will be
delivered to our stockholders in connection with our 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, when filed, will also be available on our website, and at the URL
stated in such proxy statement. We also make available on our website copies of our certificate of incorporation, bylaws, and other materials that outline our
corporate governance policies and practices, including:
•
the respective charters of our audit committee, governance and nominating committee, compensation and human resources committee, and capital
allocation and risk management committee;
•
our criteria for independence of the members of our Board of Directors, audit committee, and compensation and human resources committee;
•
our Corporate Governance Guidelines; and
•
our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics for Directors, Officers, and Employees.
We intend to provide any information required by Item 5.05 of Form 8-K (relating to amendments or waivers of our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics
for Directors, Officers, and Employees) by disclosure on our website.
You may also obtain a printed copy of the foregoing materials by sending a written request to: Investor Relations Department, Asbury Automotive
Group, Inc., 2905 Premiere Parkway, NW, Suite 300, Duluth, Georgia 30097. In addition, the
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Commission makes available on its website, free of charge, reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers, such as us,
that file electronically with the Commission. The Commission's website is http://www.sec.gov. Unless otherwise specified, information contained on our
website, available by hyperlink from our website or on the Commission's website, is not incorporated into this report or other documents we file with, or
furnish to, the Commission.
Except as the context otherwise requires, "we," "our," "us," "Asbury," and the "Company" refer to Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries.
Item 1. BUSINESS
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation organized in 2002, is a Fortune 500 company and one of the largest franchised automotive
retailers in the United States. Our mission and vision is to put the guest experience first and follow our "North Star" to be the most guest-centric automotive
retailer in the industry. We follow three key principles to guide us: (1) have a fun, supportive and inclusive culture where team members thrive personally
while building meaningful bonds with one another; (2) be great brand ambassadors and exceptional stewards of capital for our partners who fuel our mission;
and (3) be caring professionals who strive to delight our guests and foster love for the brand. Our strong organizational culture and purposeful mission allow
us to continuously deliver best-in-class experiences to our guests. As of December 31, 2024, we owned and operated 198 new vehicle franchises, representing
31 brands of automobiles at 152 dealership locations, 37 collision centers, and Total Care Auto, Powered by Landcar ("TCA" or "TCA Business"), our
finance and insurance ("F&I") product provider, within 14 states. Our store operations are conducted by our subsidiaries and the Company operates in two
reportable segments, the Dealerships and TCA segments.
We offer an extensive range of automotive products and services fulfilling the entire vehicle ownership lifecycle including new and used vehicles, parts
and service, which includes vehicle repair and maintenance services, replacement parts and collision repair services (collectively referred to as "parts and
services" or "P&S"), and F&I products, including arranging vehicle financing through third parties and aftermarket products, such as extended service
contracts, guaranteed asset protection ("GAP") debt cancellation and prepaid maintenance. We strive for a diversified mix of products, services, brands and
geographic locations which allows us to reduce our reliance on any one manufacturer, minimize the impact from changes in customer preference and maintain
profitability across fluctuations in new vehicle sales. Our diverse revenue base, along with our commitment to operational excellence across our dealership
portfolio, provides a resilient business model and strong profit margins.
Our omni-channel platform is designed to engage with customers where and when they want to interact and to increase our market share through digital
innovation. We are focused on providing a high level of customer service and have designed our dealerships’ services to meet the increasingly sophisticated
needs of customers throughout the vehicle ownership lifecycle. Our digital capabilities further enhance our physical dealership network and drive additional
revenue. Our ability to provide a low friction experience across our omni-channel platform drives customer satisfaction and repeat business across our
dealership portfolio.
Acquisitions
On February 14, 2025, the Company, through one of its subsidiaries, entered into a Purchase and Sale Agreement (the "Transaction Agreement") with
various entities that comprise the Herb Chambers automotive group (the "Herb Chambers Dealerships"). Pursuant to the Transaction Agreement, the
Company is expected to acquire substantially all of the assets, including all real property and businesses, of the Herb Chambers Dealerships (collectively, the
"Businesses") for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $1.34 billion, which includes $750 million for goodwill and approximately $590 million for
the real estate and leasehold improvements. In addition, the Company will acquire new vehicles, used vehicles, service loaner vehicles, fixed assets, parts and
supplies for a purchase price to be determined at the closing (the "Closing") of the transactions set forth in the Transaction Agreement and will reimburse the
Herb Chambers Dealerships for certain dealership construction and development costs incurred prior to the Closing. The Businesses include 33 dealerships,
52 franchises and three collision centers. Herb Chambers will retain ownership of the Mercedes-Benz of Boston dealership in Somerville, Massachusetts (the
"MB Boston Dealership"). The Transaction Agreement includes certain restrictions and obligations regarding the sale of the MB Boston Dealership, including
a put right obligating the Company to purchase the MB Boston Dealership during the five-year period following the Closing, absent certain circumstances.
The Closing is subject to various customary closing conditions, including (i) receipt of approval of the transactions by certain automotive manufacturers,
(ii) receipt of certain governmental clearances, including the expiration or termination of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust
Improvements Act of 1976, as amended, (iii) the continued accuracy of the representations and warranties of the parties, (iv) the assignment of certain leases
and key contracts and (v) the absence of a material adverse effect. The Transaction Agreement also contains certain termination rights. The Herb Chambers
Dealerships may, in some circumstances of termination, be required to pay us a termination fee of $100 million, and in other circumstances of termination, be
entitled to receive certain earnest money. The Closing is anticipated to occur in the second quarter of 2025.
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Some but not all of the factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated are set forth at "Item 1A. Risk Factors" in
this Form 10-K.
There were no acquisitions during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2022.
On December 11, 2023, the Company completed the acquisition of the business of the Jim Koons ("Koons") Automotive Companies, (collectively, the
"Koons acquisition"), thereby acquiring 20 new vehicle dealerships, six collision centers and the real property related thereto for an aggregate purchase price
of approximately $1.50 billion, which includes $256.1 million of new vehicle floor plan financing and $100.9 million of assets held for sale related to Koons
Lexus of Wilmington. The acquisition was funded with borrowings under Asbury’s existing credit facility and cash on hand. The Koons acquisition
diversified Asbury's geographic mix, with expansion in the greater Washington-Baltimore region of the United States.
Divestitures
During the year ended December 31, 2024, we sold 1 Lexus franchise (1 dealership location) in Wilmington, Delaware due to OEM requirements in
connection with the Koons acquisition, 1 Nissan franchise (1 dealership location) in Denver, Colorado, 1 Nissan franchise (1 dealership location) in Atlanta,
Georgia, 1 Chevrolet franchise (1 dealership location) in Atlanta, Georgia and 1 Honda franchise (1 dealership location) in Spokane, Washington. The
Company recorded a pre-tax gain totaling $8.6 million, which is presented in our accompanying consolidated statements of income as a gain on dealership
divestitures, net.
During the year ended December 31, 2023, we sold 1 franchise (1 dealership location) in Austin, Texas. The Company recorded a pre-tax gain totaling
$13.5 million.
During the year ended December 31, 2022, we sold one franchise (one dealership location) in St. Louis, Missouri, three franchises (three dealership
locations) and one collision center in Denver, Colorado, two franchises (two dealership locations) in Spokane, Washington, one franchise (one dealership
location) in Albuquerque, New Mexico and 11 franchises (nine dealership locations) and two collision centers in North Carolina. The Company recorded a
pre-tax gain totaling $207.1 million.
Four Key Components of Our Business
The following chart presents the contribution to total revenue and gross profit by each line of business for the year ended December 31, 2024:
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Our new vehicle franchise retail network within our Dealerships segment is made up of dealerships located in 14 states operating primarily under 16
locally branded dealership groups. The following chart provides a detailed breakdown of our states, brand names, and franchises as of December 31, 2024:
Dealership Group Brand Name
State
Franchise
Coggin Automotive Group
Florida
Acura, BMW, Buick, Chevrolet, Ford(a), GMC, Honda(d), Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz,
Nissan(a), Toyota
Courtesy Autogroup
Florida
Chrysler, Dodge Ram, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Jeep, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan,
Sprinter, Toyota
Crown Automotive Company
South Carolina
Nissan
Virginia
Acura, BMW(a), MINI
David McDavid Auto Group
Texas
Ford, Honda(a), Lincoln
Greenville Automotive Group
South Carolina
Land Rover, Porsche, Toyota, Volvo
Hare, Bill Estes & Kahlo Automotive
Groups
Indiana
Chevrolet(b), Chrysler(a), Dodge Ram(a), Ford, GMC, Honda, Isuzu, Jeep(a), Toyota
Jim Koons Automotive Companies
Maryland
Chevrolet(a), Ford, GMC, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Sprinter, Toyota(b), Volvo
Virginia
Buick, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge Ram, Ford(b), GMC(a), Hyundai, Jeep, Kia,
Toyota(a)
Larry H. Miller Dealerships
Arizona
Chrysler(b), Dodge Ram(c), Fiat, Ford, Genesis, Hyundai, Jeep(b), Nissan, Toyota,
Volkswagen(a)
California
Toyota(a)
Colorado
Chrysler(a), Dodge Ram(b), Fiat, Ford, Jeep(a), Nissan, Volkswagen
Idaho
Chrysler, Dodge Ram, Honda, Jeep, Subaru
New Mexico
Chevrolet, Chrysler(a), Dodge Ram, Hyundai(a), Jeep(a), Toyota
Utah
Chevrolet(a), Chrysler(c), Dodge Ram(c), Ford(b), Honda, Jeep(c), Lexus(a), Lincoln,
Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Sprinter
Mike Shaw, Stevinson & Arapahoe
Automotive Groups
Colorado
Subaru(a), Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge Ram, Hyundai(a), Jaguar, Jeep, Lexus(a),
Porsche, Toyota(a)
Nalley Automotive Group
Georgia
Acura, Audi, Bentley, BMW, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti(a), Kia, Lexus(a), Toyota(b),
Volkswagen
Park Place Automotive
Texas
Acura, Lexus(a), Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz(b), Porsche, Volvo, Sprinter(b)
Plaza Motor Company
Missouri
Audi, BMW, Infiniti, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz(a), Sprinter(a)
____________________________
(a)
This dealership group has two of these franchises.
(b)
This dealership group has three of these franchises.
(c)
This dealership group has four of these franchises.
(d)
This dealership group has five of these franchises.
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Operations
New Vehicle Sales
The following table reflects the number of franchises we owned as of December 31, 2024 and the percentage of new vehicle revenues represented by
class and franchise for the year ended December 31, 2024:
Class/Franchise
Number of
Franchises Owned
% of New
Vehicle Revenues
Luxury
Mercedes-Benz
9
8
Lexus
8
10
BMW
5
3
Acura
4
1
Infiniti
4
1
Land Rover
3
2
Porsche
3
2
Volvo
3
1
Audi
2
1
Lincoln
2
1
Genesis
1
Bentley
1
Jaguar
1
Total Luxury
46
30
Import
Toyota
19
19
Honda
12
9
Hyundai
9
5
Sprinter
8
1
Nissan
6
2
Kia
4
2
Volkswagen
4
1
Subaru
3
2
Fiat
2
MINI
1
Isuzu
1
Total Import
69
41
Domestic
Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram
52
9
Chevrolet, Buick, GMC
18
8
Ford
13
13
Total Domestic
83
29
Total Franchises
198
100
* Franchise accounted for less than 1% of new vehicle revenues for the year ended December 31, 2024.
Our new vehicle revenues include new vehicle sales and lease transactions arranged by our dealerships with third-party financial institutions. We believe
that leasing provides a number of benefits to our other business lines, including the historical customer loyalty to the leasing dealership for repairs and
maintenance services and the fact that lessors typically give the leasing dealership the first option to purchase the off-lease vehicle.
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Used Vehicle Sales
We sell used vehicles at all our franchised dealership locations. Used vehicle sales include the sale of used vehicles to individual retail customers ("used
retail") and the sale of used vehicles to other dealers or licensed wholesalers ("wholesale") (the terms "used retail" and "wholesale" collectively referred to as
"used").
Gross profit from the sale of used vehicles depends primarily on our dealerships' ability to obtain a high quality supply of used vehicles and our use of
technology to manage our inventory. Our new vehicle operations typically provide our used vehicle operations with a large supply of trade-ins and off-lease
vehicles, which we believe are good sources of high quality used vehicles. We also purchase a portion of our used vehicle inventory at "open" auctions and
auctions restricted to new vehicle dealers. Additionally, our used vehicle sales benefit from our ability to sell certified pre-owned vehicles from our franchised
dealerships.
Parts and Service
We provide vehicle repair and maintenance services, sell replacement parts, and recondition used vehicles at all of our dealerships. In addition, we
provide collision repair services at our 37 free-standing collision repair centers that we operate either on the premises of, or in close proximity to, our
dealerships. Historically, parts and service revenues have been more stable than those from vehicle sales. Industry-wide, parts and service revenues have
consistently increased over time primarily due to the increased cost of maintaining vehicles, the added technical complexity of vehicles, and the increasing
number of vehicles on the road.
The automotive parts and service industry tends to be highly fragmented, with franchised dealerships and independent repair shops competing for this
business. We believe, however, that the increased use of advanced technology in vehicles is making it difficult for independent repair shops to compete
effectively with franchised dealerships as they may not be able to make the investments necessary to perform major or technical repairs. In an effort to
maintain the necessary knowledge to service vehicles and further develop our technician staff, we focus on our internal and manufacturer specific training and
development programs for new and existing technicians. We believe our parts and service business is also well-positioned to benefit from the service work
potentially generated through the sale of extended service contracts to customers who purchase new and used vehicles from us, as historically these customers
tend to have their vehicles serviced at the location where they purchased the extended service contract. In addition, our franchised dealerships benefit from
manufacturer policies requiring that warranty and recall related repairs be performed at a franchised dealership. We believe our collision repair centers
provide us with an attractive opportunity to grow our business due to the high margins provided by collision repair services and the fact that we are able to
source original equipment manufacturer parts from our franchised dealerships.
Finance and Insurance
We offer a wide variety of automotive F&I products to our customers. Through the acquisition of TCA in December 2021, we offer extended vehicle
service contracts, prepaid maintenance contracts, key replacement contracts, guaranteed asset protection contracts, paintless dent repair contracts, appearance
protection contracts, tire and wheel, and lease wear and tear contracts. These F&I products are sold to our customers via our network of dealerships.
In addition to the TCA F&I products, we offer our customers a variety of vehicle protection products through independent third parties in connection with
the purchase of vehicles. These products are underwritten and administered by these third parties. Under our arrangements with the providers of these
products, we primarily sell the products on a straight commission basis. We are subject to chargebacks for service and other contracts as a result of early
termination, default, or prepayment of the contract. In addition, we participate in future profits associated with the performance of the third-party held
underlying portfolio for certain products pursuant to retrospective commission arrangements.
We also arrange third-party financing for the sale or lease of vehicles to our customers in exchange for compensation paid to us by the third-party
financial institution. We do not directly finance our customers' vehicle purchases or leases, therefore our exposure to losses in connection with those third-
party financing arrangements is limited generally to the compensation we receive. The compensation we receive is subject to chargeback, or repayment, to the
third-party finance company if a customer defaults or prepays the retail installment contract typically during some limited time period at the beginning of the
contract term. We have negotiated agreements with certain lenders pursuant to which we receive additional compensation upon reaching a certain volume of
business.
F&I revenue in our Dealerships segment represents the commissions earned from both TCA and independent third parties related to a broad range of F&I
products. This F&I revenue is presented net of third-party chargebacks.
F&I revenue in our TCA segment represents the premium revenue earned from customers for F&I products primarily sold in connection with the
purchase of vehicles at our dealerships. The premium revenue is recognized over the life of the F&I
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product contract as services are provided. We capitalize costs, such as employee sales commissions, to obtain customer contracts, and amortize those costs
over the life of the contract. Amortization of costs to obtain customer contracts is included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the consolidated
statements of income. The portion of commissions that are paid to affiliated dealerships are eliminated upon consolidation. The Dealerships segment also
provides vehicle repair and maintenance services to TCA customers in connection with claims related to TCA's products. Upon consolidation, the associated
service revenue recorded by the Dealerships segment is eliminated against the service costs incurred by the Dealerships segment. All claims paid related to
the contracts are recognized in F&I cost of sales in the TCA segment.
In addition, F&I revenue includes investment income and other gains and losses related to the performance of our investment portfolio.
Business Strategy
We seek to be the most guest-centric automotive retailer and to create long-term value for our stockholders by striving to drive operational excellence and
deploy capital to its highest risk adjusted returns. To achieve these objectives, we employ the strategies described below.
Provide an exceptional customer experience in our stores.
We are guided by our mission and vision to be the most guest-centric automotive retailer in the industry and use that framework as our North Star. We
have designed our dealerships’ services to meet the needs of an increasingly sophisticated and demanding automotive consumer. We endeavor to establish
relationships that we believe will result in both repeat business and additional business through customer referrals. Furthermore, we provide our dealership
managers with appropriate incentives to employ efficient selling approaches, engage in extensive follow-up to develop long-term relationships with
customers, and extensively train our sales staff to meet customer needs.
Accelerate same store growth and guest experience through technology investment.
As part of our long-term growth strategy, we invest in technologies or partner with leading software platform vendors to develop applications that (i)
serve our guests with omni-channel buying options offering enhanced speed, and transparency and (ii) drive a more efficient guest experience at a lower cost
to serve.
Grow F&I product penetration and expand TCA's service offerings across the full dealership portfolio.
We continue to be positioned to leverage the acquisition of LHM to improve profitability via the ownership of TCA, a highly scalable provider of a full-
suite of F&I products. TCA’s key offerings include vehicle service contracts, prepaid maintenance, protection plans, key and remote replacement, leased
vehicle protection and tire and wheel protection. Over the long-term, we expect that the profitability of our TCA products will be higher than the profitability
associated with selling F&I products offered by third-parties. We are continuing to integrate TCA’s service offerings across our full dealership portfolio to
increase our F&I product penetration and profitability. We expect to complete the rollout of TCA's service offerings to all of our dealerships in 2025 by
offering TCA products in our Florida market during the first quarter of 2025, and the Koons platform in the second quarter of 2025; however, no assurance
can be given that the rollout will be completed with the timeframe contemplated.
Attract, retain and invest in top talent to drive growth and optimize operations.
We believe the core of our business success lies in our talent pool, so we are focused on attracting, hiring and retaining the best people. We also invest in
resources to train and develop our employees. Our executive management team has extensive experience in the auto retail sector and is able to leverage
experience from all positions throughout the Company. In addition, we believe that local management of dealership operations enables our retail network to
provide market specific responses to sales, customer service and inventory requirements. The general manager of each of our dealerships is responsible for
the operations, personnel and financial performance of that dealership as well as other day-to-day operations.
Leverage scale and cost structure to improve operating efficiencies.
We are positioned to leverage our significant scale so that we are able to achieve competitive operating margins by centralizing and streamlining various
back-office functions. We are able to improve financial controls and lower servicing costs by maintaining key store-level accounting and administrative
activities in our shared service centers, and we leverage our scale to reduce costs related to purchasing certain equipment, supplies, and services through
national vendor relationships. Similarly, we are able to leverage our scale to implement these best practices when integrating newly acquired dealerships
allowing us to continue to improve our operating efficiencies.
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Deploy capital to highest returns and continue to invest in the business.
Our capital allocation decisions are made within the context of maintaining sufficient liquidity and a prudent capital structure. We target a 2.5x to 3.5x
transaction adjusted net leverage ratio, which is calculated as set forth in our credit facility, in a normal business environment. The Company’s transaction
adjusted net leverage ratio was 2.85x at December 31, 2024, compared to 2.54x at December 31, 2023. We believe our cash position and borrowing capacity,
combined with our current and expected future cash generation capability, provides us with financial flexibility to, among other things, reinvest in our
business, acquire dealerships and repurchase our stock, when prudent.
We continually evaluate our existing dealership network and seek to make strategic investments that will increase the capacity of our dealerships and
improve the customer experience. In addition, we continue to execute on our strategy of selectively acquiring our leased properties where financing rates
make it attractive to be an owner and provide us a further means to finance our business.
Evaluate opportunities to refine the dealership portfolio.
We continually evaluate the financial and operating results of our dealerships, as well as each dealership’s geographical location and, based on various
financial and strategic rationales, may make decisions to dispose of dealerships to refine our dealership and real estate portfolio. We also evaluate dealership
acquisition opportunities based on market position and geography, brand representation and availability, key personnel and other factors. Our approach to
dispositions and acquisitions is highly disciplined with a focus on long-term strategic value to stockholders.
Deliver on our mission to grow and transform our business with revenue of $30 billion or more by 2030.
We continually evaluate additional opportunities to drive revenue growth while maintaining our disciplined approach to capital allocation. In February
2024, the Company announced an update to our strategic outlook targeting revenue of $30 billion or more by 2030. We intend to execute on this strategic plan
by focusing on a variety of growth efforts including, balanced capital allocation, driving same-store revenue growth and acquiring revenue through strategic
transactions. Aligning with our strategic outlook, the Company, on February 14, 2025, through one of its subsidiaries, entered into a Transaction Agreement
with the Herb Chambers Dealerships that will result in the Company acquiring substantially all of the assets, including all real property and businesses of the
Herb Chambers Dealerships, which comprise 33 dealerships, 52 franchises and three collision centers, which is expected to positively contribute to the
Company’s overall revenue objectives.
Competition
The automotive retail and service industry is highly competitive with respect to price, service, location, and selection. For new vehicle sales, our
dealerships compete with other franchised dealerships, primarily in their regions. Our new vehicle store competitors also have franchise agreements with the
various vehicle manufacturers, and as such, generally obtain new vehicle inventory from vehicle manufacturers on the same terms as us. The franchise
agreements grant the franchised dealership a non-exclusive right to sell the manufacturer's (or distributor's) brand of vehicles and offer related parts and
service within a specified market area. State automotive franchise laws restrict competitors from relocating their stores or establishing new stores of a
particular vehicle brand within a specified area that is served by our dealership of the same vehicle brand. Recently, certain electric vehicle manufacturers
have been permitted to circumvent the state automotive franchise laws of several states in the United States thereby permitting them to sell their new vehicles
directly to consumers. We rely on our advertising and merchandising, sales expertise, service reputation, strong local branding, and location of our dealerships
to assist in the sale of new vehicles.
Our used vehicle operations compete with other franchised dealerships, non-franchised automotive dealerships, regional and national vehicle rental
companies, and internet-based vehicle brokers for the supply and resale of used vehicles.
We compete with other franchised dealerships to perform warranty and recall-related repairs. We compete with other franchised dealerships and
independent service centers for collision and non-warranty repair and maintenance services. We compete with other automobile dealers, service stores, and
auto parts retailers in our parts operations. We believe that we have a competitive advantage in parts and service sales due to our ability to use factory-
approved replacement parts, our skilled manufacturer trained and certified technicians, our competitive prices, our familiarity with manufacturer brands and
models, and the quality of our customer service.
We compete with a broad range of financial institutions in arranging financing for our customers' vehicle purchases. In addition, many financial
institutions are now offering F&I products through the internet, which has increased competition and may reduce our profits on certain of these items. We
believe the principal competitive factors in providing financing are convenience, interest rates, and flexibility in contract length.
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Seasonality
The automobile industry has historically been subject to seasonal variations. Demand for new vehicles is generally highest during the second and third
quarters of each year and, accordingly, we expect our revenues and operating results to generally be higher during these periods. In addition, we typically
experience higher sales of luxury vehicles, which have higher average selling prices and gross profit per vehicle retailed, in the fourth quarter. Revenues and
operating results may be impacted significantly from quarter to quarter by changing economic conditions, vehicle manufacturer incentive programs, or
adverse weather events, or other occurrences that are outside of our control.
Dealer and Framework Agreements
Each of our dealerships operate pursuant to a dealer agreement between the dealership and the manufacturer (or in some cases the distributor) of each
brand of new vehicles sold and/or serviced at the dealership. The dealer agreements grant the franchised dealership a non-exclusive right to sell the
manufacturer's (or distributor's) brand of vehicles and offer related parts and service within a specified market area. Each dealer agreement also grants our
dealerships the right to use the manufacturer's trademarks and service marks in connection with the dealerships' operations and they also impose numerous
operational requirements related to, among other things, the following:
•
inventories of new vehicles and manufacturer replacement parts;
•
maintenance of minimum net working capital requirements, and in some cases, minimum net worth requirements;
•
achievement of certain sales and customer satisfaction targets;
•
advertising and marketing practices;
•
facilities and signs;
•
products offered to customers;
•
dealership management;
•
personnel training;
•
information systems;
•
geographic market, including but not limited to requirements to meet sales and service targets within an assigned market area, geographic limitations
on where the dealership may locate or advertise, and restrictions on the export of vehicles; and
•
dealership monthly and annual financial reporting.
Our dealer agreements are for various terms, ranging from one year to indefinite. We expect that we will be able to renew expiring agreements in the
ordinary course of business. However, typical dealer agreements give the manufacturer the right to terminate or the option of non-renewal of the dealer
agreement under certain circumstances, subject to applicable state automotive dealership franchise laws, including:
•
insolvency or bankruptcy of the dealership;
•
failure to adequately operate the dealership or to maintain required capitalization levels;
•
impairment of the reputation or financial condition of the dealership;
•
change of ownership or management of the dealership without manufacturer consent;
•
certain extraordinary corporate transactions such as a merger or sale of all or substantially all of our assets without manufacturer consent;
•
failure to complete facility upgrades required by the manufacturer or agreed to by the dealer;
•
failure to maintain any license, permits or authorization required to conduct the dealership's business;
•
conviction of a dealer/manager or owner for certain crimes; or
•
material breach of other provisions of a dealer agreement.
Notwithstanding the terms of any dealer agreement, the states in which we operate have automotive dealership franchise laws which provide that it is
unlawful for a manufacturer to terminate or not renew a franchise unless "good cause" exists.
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In addition to requirements under dealer agreements, we are subject to provisions contained in supplemental agreements, framework agreements, dealer
addenda and manufacturers' policies, collectively referred to as "framework agreements." Framework agreements impose requirements on us in addition to
those described above. Such agreements also define other standards and limitations, including:
•
company-wide performance criteria;
•
capitalization requirements;
•
limitations on changes in our ownership or management;
•
limitations on the number of a particular manufacturer's franchises owned by us;
•
restrictions or prohibitions on our ability to pledge the stock of certain of our subsidiaries; and
•
conditions for consent to proposed acquisitions, including sales and customer satisfaction criteria, as well as limitations on the total local, regional,
and national market share percentage that would be represented by a particular manufacturer's franchises owned by us after giving effect to a
proposed acquisition.
Some dealer agreements and framework agreements grant the manufacturer the right to terminate or not renew our dealer and framework agreements, or
to compel us to divest our dealerships, for a number of reasons, including default under the agreement, any unapproved change of control (specific changes
vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but which include material changes in the composition of our Board of Directors during a specified time period, the
acquisition of 5% or more of our voting stock by another vehicle manufacturer or distributor, the acquisition of 20% or more of our voting stock by third
parties, and the acquisition of an ownership interest sufficient to direct or influence management and policies), or certain other unapproved events (including
certain extraordinary corporate transactions such as a merger or sale of all or substantially all of our assets). Triggers of the clauses are often based upon
actions by our stockholders and are generally outside of our control. Some of our dealer agreements and framework agreements also give the manufacturer a
right of first refusal if we propose to sell any dealership representing the manufacturer's brands to a third-party. These agreements may also attempt to limit
the protections available under applicable state laws and require us to resolve disputes through binding arbitration. For additional information, please refer to
the risk factor captioned "We are dependent upon our relationships with the manufacturers of vehicles that we sell and are subject to restrictions imposed by,
and significant influence from, these vehicle manufacturers. Any of these restrictions or any changes or deterioration of these relationships could have a
material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows."
Our framework agreements with certain manufacturers contain provisions that, among other things, attempt to limit the protections available to dealers
under these laws. If these laws are repealed in the states in which we operate, manufacturers may be able to terminate our franchises without providing us
with advance notice, an opportunity to cure or a showing of good cause. Without the protection of these laws, it may also be more difficult for us to renew our
dealer agreements upon expiration.
Changes in laws that provide manufacturers the ability to terminate our dealer agreements could materially adversely affect our business, financial
condition and results of operations. Furthermore, if a manufacturer seeks protection from creditors in bankruptcy, courts have held that the federal bankruptcy
laws may supersede these laws, resulting in either the termination, non-renewal or rejection of franchises by such manufacturers, which, in turn, could
materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. For additional information, please refer to the risk factor captioned "If
state laws that protect automotive retailers are repealed, weakened, or superseded by our framework agreements with manufacturers, our dealerships will be
more susceptible to termination, non-renewal or renegotiation of their dealer agreements which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results
of operations, financial condition, and cash flows."
Regulations
We operate in a highly regulated industry. In every state in which we operate, we must obtain one or more licenses issued by state regulatory authorities in
order to operate our business. In addition, we are subject to numerous complex federal, state, and local laws regulating the conduct of our business, including
those relating to our sales, operations, finance and insurance, marketing, and employment practices. These laws and regulations include state franchise laws
and regulations, product standards and recalls, consumer protection laws, privacy and data security laws, anti-money laundering laws, and other extensive
laws and regulations applicable to new and used motor vehicle dealers. These laws also include federal and state wage and hour, anti-discrimination, and
other laws governing employment practices.
Industry Regulations
The Federal Trade Commission ("FTC") has regulatory authority over automotive dealers and has implemented enforcement initiatives relating to the
marketing practices of automotive dealers. Our operations are also subject to the National
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Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act, Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and other product standards promulgated by the United States Department of
Transportation, and the rules and regulations of various state motor vehicle regulatory agencies.
Our financing activities with customers are subject to federal truth-in-lending, consumer leasing, and equal credit opportunity laws and regulations, as
well as state and local motor vehicle finance laws, leasing laws, installment finance laws, usury laws, and other installment state and leasing laws and
regulations. Some U.S. states regulate fees and charges that may be collected as a result of vehicle sales and service. Claims arising out of actual or alleged
violations of law may be asserted against us or our stores by individuals or governmental entities and may expose us to significant damages, fines or other
penalties, including revocation or suspension of our license to conduct store operations. Our financing activities, as well as our sale of finance and insurance
products, may also be impacted indirectly by laws and regulations that govern automotive finance companies and other financial institutions, including
regulations adopted by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (the "CFPB").
Our TCA business involves the offer and sale of extended vehicle service contracts, debt protection products, vehicle protection plans and other
miscellaneous vehicle protection products, which are subject to a wide range of federal, state and local laws and regulations. The Departments of Insurance of
U.S. states have regulatory authority over our TCA business. Our TCA business is subject to state licensing and registration requirements, and financial
responsibility and security requirements. For additional information, please refer to the risk factors captioned: "Our dealership operations and facilities are
subject to extensive governmental laws and regulations. If we are found to be in purported violation of or subject to liabilities under any of these laws or
regulations, or if new laws or regulations are enacted that adversely affect our operations, our business, results of operations, financial condition, cash flows,
reputation and prospects could suffer" and "Our TCA business is subject to a wide range of federal, state and local laws and regulations, some of which we
may not have previously been subject. If we are found to be in purported violation of or subject to liabilities under any of these laws or regulations, or if new
laws or regulations are enacted that adversely affect our TCA business, our business, results of operations, financial condition, cash flows, reputation and
prospects could suffer."
Environmental, Health and Safety Laws and Regulations
We are subject to a wide range of environmental laws and regulations, including those governing discharges into water, air emissions, storage of
petroleum substances and chemicals, handling and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes, remediation of various types of contamination, and otherwise
relating to health, safety and protection of the environment. For example, and without creating an exhaustive list: as with automobile dealerships generally,
and service and parts and collision repair center operations in particular, our business involves the generation, use, handling, and disposal of hazardous or
toxic substances and wastes and the use of above ground and underground storage tanks (ASTs and USTs). Operations involving the management of wastes
and the use of ASTs and USTs are subject to requirements of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, analogous state statutes, and their implementing
regulations. Pursuant to these laws, federal and state environmental agencies have established approved methods for handling, storing, treating, transporting,
and disposing of regulated substances and wastes with which we must comply. We also are subject to laws and regulations governing responses to any
releases of contamination at or from our facilities or at facilities that receive our hazardous wastes for treatment or disposal. The Comprehensive
Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act ("CERCLA") and similar state statutes, can impose strict and joint and several liability for cleanup
costs on those that are considered to have contributed to the release of a "hazardous substance." We also are subject to the Clean Water Act, analogous state
statutes, and their implementing regulations which, among other things, prohibit discharges of pollutants into regulated waters without permits, require
containment of potential discharges of oil or hazardous substances, and require preparation of spill contingency plans.
We have incurred, and will continue to incur, costs and capital expenditures to comply with these laws and regulations. We believe that our operations
currently are being conducted in substantial compliance with all applicable regulations. From time to time, we may experience incidents and encounter
conditions that are not in compliance with regulations. We may occasionally receive notices from governmental agencies regarding potential violations of
these laws or regulations. In such cases, we will work with the agencies to address any issues and to implement appropriate corrective action when necessary.
However, none of our dealerships has been subject to any material liabilities in the past, nor do we know of any fact or condition that would result in any
material liabilities being incurred in the future.
Human Capital
Mission and Vision
At Asbury, our North Star and our mission is to be the most guest-centric automotive retailer. Our success depends on our employees and their
commitment to delivering a consistent and exceptional guest experience. Our employees work at locations in Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Missouri,
South Carolina, Texas, California, Arizona, New Mexico, Idaho, Utah, Virginia and Maryland. We believe that our employees help to set us apart from our
competitors, and, therefore, we understand
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they are our greatest asset. As a result, a critical part of our business strategy is investing in, supporting and developing our employees so that they are trained
and incentivized to provide best-in-class service to our guests.
As of December 31, 2024, we employed approximately 15,000 full-time and part-time employees, none of whom were covered by collective bargaining
agreements. We believe we have good relations with our employees.
Inclusive and Welcoming Culture
We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive workplace throughout our dealerships and offices for our team members who represent a wide range of
backgrounds and experiences. We feel that building this culture enables us to attract, retain and develop the careers of our highly talented team members. We
intend to continue to learn and develop - working towards building a workplace where every Asbury team member feels included and welcomed.
Community Outreach
Through our Asbury Cares program, we support selected community partner organizations across the nation to help reduce disparities in our communities
where we live and serve. Since 2021, we have awarded all of our full-time employees with an additional 40 hours of paid time off per year that can be used to
volunteer with our local community partners. We have seen significant year-over-year growth in employee participation in our community engagement
events.
A significant portion of our Asbury Cares Community program revolves around education and making sure that young people in underserved
communities have access to a quality education. We formed a partnership with HBCU Change, an app-based organization that lets users round up their
spending and donate to historically black colleges and universities ("HBCU"). We learned that many HBCUs historically lag in funding and resources
compared to other public or private universities and many have closed their doors in recent years. Many of our Asbury team members are proud HBCU
alumni and these institutions provide a unique community of support and understanding for not only African American students, but students of all races and
backgrounds.
In partnership with HBCU Change, we launched a campaign to help raise funds for HBCUs across the country and in the local communities where we
operate. The point-of-sale credit card machines in our locations show a prompt asking our guests if they would like to round up their change or donate $1, $3,
$5, or a custom amount to HBCUs in their communities. At the end of each quarter, the funds raised are donated to HBCUs across the country. Through
donations from our guests and company match, we have contributed more than $1.5 million to HBCUs since the start of our partnership with HBCU Change
in May 2021.
Recruitment and Talent Development
When recruiting for open positions, we search for the most talented people who each have varying backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. We also
partner with local colleges and trade schools to develop apprenticeship and internship programs. This allows us to help provide valuable training to entry-
level candidates while also growing our pipeline.
Our goal is to promote employees from within to career growth opportunities whenever possible. We invest resources to train and develop our employees
to reach their career goals. In 2022, we launched a training curriculum for all store positions. In addition, we offer our employees access to an online career
path tool, which helps them plan their desired career path and see the required performance goals and milestones to be considered for a promotion. Our fixed
operations organization encourages technicians to obtain and maintain certification status with our vehicle manufacturers, and in most cases, our dealership
pays for the training. Our employees also attend vehicle manufacturer-sponsored and industry training events.
We pride ourselves on rewarding and developing talented and tenured employees.
Compensation and Benefits
We offer competitive compensation and benefits to attract and retain the best people, including the following benefits for our full-time employees:
•
Health, dental, and vision benefits with multiple plan choices;
•
Discounted healthcare premiums for biometric screening and completion of health survey; and
•
Employee assistance program.
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Saving and retirement
•
Holiday match; and
•
401(k) match.
Paid time off
•
Up to 4 weeks paid time off;
•
Paid pregnancy leave; and
•
Paid parental leave.
Disability and accident insurance
•
Short-term disability and long-term disability insurance;
•
Accident insurance, hospital indemnity, employee critical illness insurance;
•
Employer paid life insurance; and
•
Supplemental life insurance.
Scholarships for education
•
Annual scholarship program.
Broad employee equity ownership
•
We also lead the industry by offering equity awards to frontline employees because we want them to be owners of our Company and committed to
our long-term success.
Self-Insurance Programs
Due to the inherent risk in the automotive retail industry, our operations expose us to a variety of liabilities. These risks generally require significant levels
of insurance covering liabilities such as claims from employees, customers, or other third parties, for personal injury and property-related losses occurring in
the course of our operations. We may be subject to fines and civil and criminal penalties in connection with alleged violations of federal and state laws or
regulatory environments. Further, the automobile retail industry is subject to substantial risk of real and personal property loss, due to the significant
concentration of property values located at the various dealership locations.
Under our self-insurance programs, including property and casualty, workers’ compensation, and medical, the Company retains various levels of
aggregate loss limits and per-claim deductibles. In addition, the Company maintains separate insurance policies to address potential cyber and directors and
officers exposures. We are self-insured for certain employee medical claims and maintain stop-loss insurance for individual claims.
Provisions for retained losses and deductibles are made by charges to expense based upon periodic evaluations of the estimated ultimate liabilities on
reported and unreported claims. The insurance companies that underwrite our insurance require we secure certain of our obligations for deductible
reimbursements with collateral. Our collateral requirements are set by the insurance companies and, to date, have been satisfied by posting surety bonds,
letters of credit, and/or cash deposits. Our collateral requirements may change from time-to-time based on, among other things, our claims experience.
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Item 1A. Risk Factors
In addition to the other information contained, referred to or incorporated by reference into this report, you should consider carefully the following factors
when evaluating our business and before making an investment decision. Our business, operations, ability to implement our strategy, reputation, results of
operations, financial condition, cash flows, and prospects may be materially adversely affected by the risks described below. In addition, other risks or
uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently do not deem material could arise, any of which could also materially adversely affect us.
Risks Related to Our Business
Operating Risks
Disruptions in the production and delivery of new vehicles and parts from manufacturers due to the lack of availability of parts and key components from
suppliers could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
Historically, we have generated a significant portion of our revenue through new vehicle sales, and new vehicle sales also tend to lead to sales of higher-
margin products and services, such as F&I products and vehicle-related parts and service. In addition, new vehicle buyers often trade in an owned vehicle, or
turn in a leased vehicle, to us at the time of purchase, and these traded vehicles have historically been an important source for our used vehicle inventory. We
rely exclusively on the various vehicle manufacturers for our new vehicle inventory and maintenance and replacement parts inventory. In turn, our vehicle
manufacturers rely on certain third-party suppliers to manufacture and deliver certain parts and key components for their vehicles. As a result, our
profitability is dependent to a great extent on various aspects of vehicle manufacturers’ operations and timely delivery of new vehicles and parts.
Property loss or other uninsured liabilities could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations.
We are subject to substantial risk of property loss due to the significant concentration of property at dealership locations, including vehicles and parts. We
have historically experienced business interruptions from time to time at several of our dealerships, due to actual or threatened adverse weather conditions or
natural disasters, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, floods, hail storms, fires or other extraordinary events. Concentration of property at dealership
locations also makes the automotive retail business particularly vulnerable to theft, fraud and misappropriation of assets. Illegal or unethical conduct by
employees, customers, vendors, and unaffiliated third parties can result in loss of assets, disrupt operations, impact brand reputation, jeopardize manufacturer
and other relationships, result in the imposition of fines or penalties, and subject us to governmental investigations or lawsuits. While we maintain insurance
to protect against a number of losses, this insurance coverage often contains significant deductibles. In addition, we "self-insure" a portion of our potential
liabilities, meaning we do not carry insurance from a third-party for such liabilities, and are wholly responsible for any related losses including for certain
potential liabilities that some states prohibit the maintenance of insurance to protect against. In certain instances, our insurance may not fully cover a loss
depending on the applicable deductible or the magnitude and nature of the claim. Additionally, changes in the cost or availability of insurance in the future
could substantially increase our costs to maintain our current level of coverage or could cause us to reduce our insurance coverage and increase our self-
insured risks. To the extent we incur significant additional costs for insurance, suffer losses that are not covered by in-force insurance or suffer losses for
which we are self-insured, our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially adversely impacted.
If we are unable to acquire and successfully integrate additional businesses into our existing operations, and realize expected benefits and synergies from
such acquisitions, our revenue and earnings growth may be adversely affected.
We believe that the automotive retailing industry is a mature industry whose sales are significantly impacted by the prevailing economic climate, both
nationally and in local markets. Accordingly, we believe that our future growth depends in part on our ability to manage expansion, control costs in our
operations and acquire and effectively integrate acquired dealerships into our organization. For example, with the consummation of the Koons acquisition in
2023 and the pending Herb Chambers acquisition, we have experienced, and expect to continue to experience, significantly more sales, and have more assets
and employees than we did previously. However, there can be no assurance that there will be sufficient revenue from such acquisitions to offset increased
expenses and costs arising out of such acquisitions.
When seeking to acquire other dealerships, we often compete with several other national, regional and local dealership groups, and other strategic and
financial buyers, some of which may have greater financial resources than us. Competition for attractive acquisition targets may result in fewer acquisition
opportunities for us and we may have to forgo acquisition opportunities to the extent we cannot negotiate such acquisitions on acceptable terms. The
integration processes require us to expend significant capital and significantly expand the scope of our operations and financial systems. Integration also
requires
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support or other actions by third parties such as vendors, suppliers, and licensing agencies, and the untimely or inadequate responses from such third parties
can delay or otherwise negatively impact integration processes.
We also face additional risks commonly encountered with growth through acquisitions. These risks include, but are not limited to: (i) failing to obtain
manufacturers’ consents to acquisitions of additional franchises; (ii) manufacturers' requirements to divest certain franchises when acquiring additional
franchises; (iii) incurring significant transaction-related costs for completed, failed and pending acquisitions; (iv) incurring significantly higher capital
expenditures and operating expenses; (v) the inability to obtain the necessary financing in order to complete acquisitions; (vi) failing to successfully integrate
the operations and personnel of the acquired dealerships and impairing relationships with employees; (vii) impairing relationships with employees of the
acquired dealerships; (viii) incorrectly valuing entities to be acquired or incurring undisclosed liabilities at acquired dealerships; (ix) disrupting our ongoing
business and diverting our management resources to newly acquired dealerships; (x) failing to achieve expected performance levels and financial results on a
same store basis after integration; (xi) impairing relationships with manufacturers and customers as a result of changes in management; (xii) delays or
difficulties related to our ability to obtain future necessary regulatory approvals for TCA in jurisdictions applicable to acquired dealerships; (xiii) difficulties
in entering geographic markets in which we have no or limited direct prior experience; (xiv) failing to realize expected benefits and synergies from the
transaction; and (xv) failing to implement or improve controls, policies and information systems and related security measures in the acquired businesses.
We may not adequately anticipate all the demands that our growth will impose on our personnel, procedures and structures, including our financial and
reporting control systems, information technology systems, data processing systems, and management structure. Moreover, our failure to retain qualified
management personnel at any acquired dealership may increase the risks associated with integrating the acquired dealership. If we cannot adequately
anticipate and respond to these demands, we may fail to realize acquisition synergies and our resources will be focused on incorporating new operations into
our structure rather than on areas that may be more profitable.
We are a holding company and as a result are dependent on our operating subsidiaries to generate sufficient cash and distribute cash to us to service our
indebtedness and fund our ongoing operations.
Our ability to make payments on our indebtedness and fund our ongoing operations depends on our operating subsidiaries' ability to generate cash in the
future and distribute that cash to us. It is possible that our subsidiaries may not generate cash from operations in an amount sufficient to enable us to service
our indebtedness. In addition, many of our subsidiaries are required to comply with the provisions of franchise agreements, dealer agreements, other
agreements with manufacturers, mortgages, and credit facility providers. Many of these agreements contain minimum working capital or net worth
requirements, and are subject to change at least annually. Although the requirements contained in these agreements did not restrict our subsidiaries from
distributing cash to us as of December 31, 2024, unexpected changes to our financial metrics or to the terms of our franchise agreements, dealer agreements,
or other agreements with manufacturers could require us to alter the manner in which we distribute or use cash. If our operating subsidiaries are unable to
generate and distribute sufficient cash to us to service our indebtedness and fund our ongoing operations, our financial condition may be materially adversely
affected.
Our inability to execute a substantial portion of our business strategy, including our mission to grow and transform our business, could have an adverse
effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
Our inability to execute a substantial portion of our business strategy, could adversely affect our business, results of operations, financial condition and
cash flows. We seek to execute on our strategic plan using a variety of growth efforts, which includes driving same-store revenue growth and acquiring
additional revenue through strategic acquisitions. Many of the factors that impact our ability to execute our strategic vision, such as the advancement of
certain technologies, general economic conditions and legal and regulatory obstacles are beyond our control.
Consumers are increasingly shopping for new and used vehicles, automotive repair and maintenance service and other automotive products and services
online and through mobile applications, including through third-party online and mobile sales platforms, with which we compete, that are designed to
generate consumer sales that are sold to automotive dealers. We have invested and will continue to invest in our omni-channel and other online applications in
furtherance of our strategic vision. We face increased competition for market share from other automotive retailers and other sales platforms that have also
invested in digital channels. There can be no assurance that our initiatives and investments in digital channels will be successful or result in improved
financial performance.
We may not adequately anticipate all the demands that our growth will impose on our personnel, procedures and structures, including our financial and
reporting control systems, information technology systems, data processing systems, and management structure. Furthermore, we may decide to alter or
discontinue aspects of our strategic plan and may adopt alternative or additional strategies in response to business or competitive factors or other factors or
events beyond our control.
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We cannot give assurance that we will be able to execute a substantial portion of our strategic plan which could have a material adverse effect on our
business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
Goodwill and manufacturer franchise rights comprise a significant portion of our total assets. We must test our goodwill and manufacturer franchise
rights for impairment at least annually, which could result in a material, non-cash write-down of goodwill or manufacturer franchise rights and could
have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and stockholders’ equity.
Our principal intangible assets are goodwill and our rights under our franchise agreements with vehicle manufacturers. Goodwill and indefinite-lived
intangible assets, including manufacturer franchise rights, are subject to impairment assessments at least annually (or more frequently when events or changes
in circumstances indicate that an impairment may have occurred), by applying a qualitative or quantitative assessment. A decrease in our market
capitalization or profitability increases the risk of goodwill impairment. The fair value of our manufacturer franchise rights is determined by discounting a
subset of the projected cash flows at a dealership that we attribute to the value of the franchise. Changes to the business mix or declining cash flows in a
dealership increase the risk of impairment. During the year ended December 31, 2024, we recognized asset impairment charges of $149.5 million associated
with manufacturer franchise rights recorded at certain dealerships and goodwill associated with certain asset disposal groups. We cannot accurately predict the
amount and timing of any additional impairment charges at this time; however, any such impairment charge could have an adverse effect on our results of
operations and stockholders' equity. See Note 10 "Goodwill and Intangible Franchise Rights" of the notes to the consolidated financial statements for more
information.
The loss of key personnel and limited management and personnel resources could adversely affect our business.
Our success depends, to a significant degree, upon the continued contributions of our management team, and service and sales personnel. In addition,
manufacturer dealer or framework agreements may require the prior approval of the applicable manufacturer before any change is made in dealership general
managers or other management positions. The loss of the services of one or more of these key employees may materially impair the profitability of our
operations, or may result in a violation of an applicable dealer or framework agreement. In addition, the market for qualified employees in the industry and in
the states in which we operate, specifically for general managers and sales and service personnel, is highly competitive and may subject us to increased labor
costs during periods of low unemployment. The loss of the services of such employees or the inability to attract additional qualified employees may adversely
affect the ability of our dealerships to conduct their operations in accordance with the standards set by us or the manufacturers. If we are unable to retain our
key personnel, we may be unable to successfully execute our business plans, which may have a material adverse effect on our business.
The Herb Chambers Dealerships acquisition may not occur at all or may not occur in the expected time frame, which may negatively affect the trading
price of our common stock and our future business and financial results.
No assurance can be provided that the Herb Chambers Dealerships acquisition will be completed in the manner and on the time frame currently
anticipated, or at all. Completion of the Herb Chambers Dealerships acquisition is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of a number of conditions beyond our
control that may prevent, delay or otherwise materially adversely affect its completion. If the Herb Chambers Dealerships acquisition is not completed, if
there are significant delays in completing the Herb Chambers Dealerships acquisition or if the Herb Chambers Dealerships acquisition involves an unexpected
amount of remedies required by regulatory authorities, it could negatively affect the trading price of our common stock and our future business and financial
results. The following are some but not all of the factors that could cause the Herb Chambers Dealerships acquisition to be delayed or not successfully be
completed: (i) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the Transaction Agreement; (ii) the risk
that the necessary manufacturer approvals may not be obtained; (iii) the risk that the necessary regulatory approvals may not be obtained or may be obtained
subject to conditions that are not anticipated; (iv) the inability to obtain the necessary financing in order to complete the acquisition; (v) the risk that the
proposed acquisition will not be consummated in a timely manner; and (vi) the risk that any of the closing conditions to the proposed acquisition may not be
satisfied or may not be satisfied in a timely manner.
We may not realize the strategic benefits and cost synergies that are anticipated from the planned Herb Chambers Dealerships acquisition.
Our future growth depends in part on our ability to acquire and effectively integrate acquired dealerships into our organization, such as the pending Herb
Chambers Dealerships acquisition. The benefits that are expected to result from the Herb Chambers Dealerships acquisition will depend, in part, on our ability
to consummate the Herb Chambers Dealerships acquisition within the anticipated time period, or at all, and to integrate and realize the anticipated cost
synergies from the Herb Chambers Dealerships acquisition. There is a significant degree of difficulty and management distraction inherent in the process of
integrating an acquisition. Some members of our management may be required to devote considerable time to this integration process, which will decrease the
time they will have to manage the Company, service existing customers, attract new customers
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and develop new businesses or strategies. If management is not able to effectively manage the integration process, or if any significant business activities are
interrupted as a result of the integration process, our business, financial condition and results of operations could suffer. We also cannot guarantee that the
benefits and cost synergies that we currently expect to realize as a result of the Herb Chambers Dealerships acquisition will be achieved within our anticipated
time frames or at all. Additionally, we may incur substantial expenses in connection with the integration of the Herb Chambers Dealerships, which may
exceed expectations and offset certain anticipated benefits.
The following are some but not all of the factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in connection with the
Herb Chambers Dealerships acquisition: (i) risks related to disruption of management time from ongoing business operations due to the proposed acquisition;
(ii) the failure to realize the benefits expected from the proposed acquisition; (iii) the failure to promptly and effectively integrate the operations, including
information technology systems and security, and personnel, including applicable pay plans; (iv) the effect of the announcement of the proposed Transaction
on the ability of the Company to retain and hire key personnel, and maintain relationships with suppliers; and (v) our ability to execute our business strategy
and accelerate same store growth after integration.
Risks Related to Macroeconomic and Market Conditions
The automotive retail industry is sensitive to unfavorable changes in general economic conditions and various other factors that could affect demand for
our products and services, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, our ability to implement our strategy and our results of operations.
Our future performance will be impacted by general economic conditions including among other things: changes in employment levels; consumer
demand, preferences and confidence levels; the availability and cost of credit; fuel prices; levels of discretionary personal income; inflation; interest rates; and
changes in U.S. trade policy, including the imposition of tariffs and resulting consequences. Recently, inflation has increased throughout the U.S. economy.
Inflation can adversely affect us by increasing the costs of labor, fuel and other costs as well as by reducing demand for automobiles. Sales of certain vehicles,
particularly trucks and sport utility vehicles that historically have provided us with higher gross profit per vehicle retailed, may be sensitive to fuel prices. In
addition, rapid changes in fuel prices can cause shifts in consumer preferences which are difficult to accommodate given the long lead-time of inventory
acquisition. Inflation is also often accompanied by higher interest rates, which could reduce the fair value of our outstanding debt obligations. Changes in
interest rates can also significantly impact new and used vehicle sales and vehicle affordability due to the direct relationship between interest rates and
monthly loan payments, a critical factor for many vehicle buyers, and the impact interest rates have on customers’ borrowing capacity and disposable income.
In an inflationary environment, depending on automotive industry and other economic conditions, we may be unable to raise prices to keep up with the rate of
inflation, which would reduce our profit margins. We have experienced, and continue to experience, increases in the prices of labor, fuel and other costs of
providing service. Continued inflationary pressures could impact our profitability.
We also are subject to economic, competitive, and other conditions prevailing in the various markets in which we operate, even if those conditions are not
prominent nationally.
Retail vehicle sales are cyclical and historically have experienced periodic downturns characterized by oversupply and weak demand, which could result
in a need for us to lower the prices at which we sell vehicles, which would reduce our revenue per vehicle sold and our margins. Additionally, a shift in
consumer vehicle preferences driven by pricing, fuel costs or other factors may have a material adverse effect on our revenues, margins and results of
operations.
Changes in general economic conditions may make it difficult for us to execute our business strategy. In such an event, we may be required to enter into
certain transactions in order to generate additional cash, which may include, but not be limited to, selling certain of our dealerships or other assets or
increasing borrowings under our existing, or any future, credit facilities. There can be no assurance that, if necessary, we would be able to enter into any such
transactions in a timely manner or on reasonable terms, if at all. Furthermore, in the event we were required to sell dealership assets, the sale of any material
portion of such assets could have a material adverse effect on our revenue and profitability.
Adverse conditions affecting one or more of the vehicle manufacturers with which we hold franchises or their inability to deliver a desirable mix of
vehicles that our consumers demand could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
Historically, we have generated most of our revenue through new vehicle sales, and new vehicle sales also tend to lead to sales of higher-margin products
and services, such as finance and insurance products and vehicle-related parts and service. As a result, our profitability is dependent to a great extent on
various aspects of vehicle manufacturers’ operations, many of which are outside of our control. Our ability to sell new vehicles is dependent on
manufacturers’ ability to design and produce, and willingness to allocate and deliver to our dealerships, a desirable mix of popular new vehicles that
consumers demand. For
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example, improvements in electric, battery-powered and hybrid gas/electric vehicles have increased consumer demand for such vehicles. If consumer demand
increases for certain types of vehicles, including electric, battery-powered and hybrid gas/electric, and our manufacturers are not able to adapt and produce
such vehicles that meet consumer demands, our new and used vehicle sales volumes, parts and service revenue and our results of operations may be adversely
affected. Further, if manufacturers shift significant resources away from traditional production models to invest in clean vehicles and new technologies, we
may experience an inadequate supply of historically popular vehicles and other adverse effects on our new and used vehicle sales volume, parts and service
revenue and our results of operations until such time as consumer preferences for clean vehicles and other new technologies become widespread. In addition,
popular vehicles may often be difficult to obtain from manufacturers for a number of reasons, including the fact that manufacturers generally allocate their
vehicles to dealerships based on sales history and capital expenditures associated with such dealerships. Further, if a manufacturer fails to produce desirable
vehicles or develops a reputation for producing undesirable vehicles or produces vehicles that do not comply with applicable laws or government regulations,
and we own dealerships which sell that manufacturer’s vehicles, our revenues from those dealerships could be adversely affected as consumers shift their
vehicle purchases away from that brand.
Although we seek to limit our dependence on any one vehicle manufacturer, there can be no assurance that the brand mix allocated and delivered to our
dealerships by the manufacturers will be appropriate or sufficiently diverse to protect us from a significant decline in the desirability of vehicles manufactured
by a particular manufacturer or disruptions in a manufacturer's ability to produce vehicles. For the year ended December 31, 2024, manufacturers representing
5% or more of our revenues from new vehicle sales were as follows:
Manufacturer (Vehicle Brands):
% of Total
New Vehicle
Revenues
Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (Toyota and Lexus)
30 %
Ford Motor Company (Ford and Lincoln)
13 %
American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (Honda and Acura)
10 %
Stellantis N.V. (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram and Fiat)
9 %
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (Mercedes-Benz and Sprinter)
8 %
General Motors Company (Chevrolet, Buick and GMC)
8 %
Hyundai Motor North America (Hyundai and Genesis)
5 %
Similar to automotive retailers, vehicle manufacturers may be affected by the long-term U.S. and international economic climate. In addition, we remain
vulnerable to other matters that may impact the manufacturers of the vehicles we sell, many of which are outside of our control, including: (i) changes in their
respective financial condition; (ii) changes in their respective marketing efforts; (iii) changes in their respective reputation; (iv) manufacturer and other
product defects, including recalls; (v) changes in their respective management; (vi) disruptions in the production and delivery of vehicles and parts due to
natural disasters, pandemics, wars, conflicts or other reasons; (vii) issues with respect to labor relations; and (viii) consolidation among manufacturers. Our
business is highly dependent on consumer demand and brand preferences for our manufacturers’ products. Manufacturer recall campaigns are a common
occurrence that have accelerated in frequency and scope. Manufacturer recall campaigns could (i) adversely affect our new and used vehicle sales or customer
residual trade-in valuations, (ii) cause us to temporarily remove vehicles from our inventory, (iii) force us to incur increased costs, and (iv) expose us to
litigation and adverse publicity related to the sale of recalled vehicles, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations,
financial condition and cash flows. Vehicle manufacturers that produce vehicles outside of the U.S. are subject to additional risks including changes in quotas,
tariffs or duties, fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, regulations governing imports and the costs related thereto, and foreign governmental
regulations.
Adverse conditions that materially affect a vehicle manufacturer and its ability to profitably design, market, produce or distribute desirable new vehicles
could in turn materially adversely affect our ability to (i) sell vehicles produced by that manufacturer, (ii) obtain or finance our new vehicle inventories, (iii)
access or benefit from manufacturer financial assistance programs, (iv) collect in full or on a timely basis any amounts due therefrom, and/or (v) obtain other
goods and services provided by the impacted manufacturer. In addition, we depend on manufacturers’ ability to design, produce, and supply parts to us and
any failure to do so could have a material adverse effect on our parts and services business. Our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash
flows could be materially adversely affected as a result of any event that has an adverse effect on any vehicle manufacturer.
In addition, if a vehicle manufacturer’s financial condition worsens and it seeks protection from creditors in bankruptcy or similar proceedings, or
otherwise under the laws of its jurisdiction of organization, (i) the manufacturer could seek to terminate or reject all or certain of our franchises, (ii) if the
manufacturer is successful in terminating all or certain of our franchises, we may not receive adequate compensation for those franchises, (iii) our cost to
obtain financing for our new vehicle inventory
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may increase or no longer be available from such manufacturer’s captive finance subsidiary, (iv) consumer demand for such manufacturer’s products could be
materially adversely affected, especially if costs related to improving such manufacturer’s financial condition are factored into the price of its products, (v)
there may be a significant disruption in the availability of consumer credit to purchase or lease that manufacturer’s vehicles or negative changes in the terms
of such financing, which may negatively impact our sales, or (vi) there may be a reduction in the value of receivables and inventory associated with that
manufacturer, among other things. The occurrence of any one or more of these events could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of
operations, financial condition, and cash flows.
Furthermore, the automotive manufacturing supply chain spans the globe. As such, supply chain disruptions resulting from natural disasters, adverse
weather, pandemics, tariffs, labor stoppages, wars, conflicts and other events may affect the flow of vehicle and parts inventories to us or our manufacturing
partners. If we experience disruptions in the supply of vehicle and parts inventories, such disruptions could have a material adverse effect on our business,
results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows.
Substantial competition in automobile sales and services may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
The automotive retail and service industry is highly competitive with respect to price, service, location, and selection. Our competition includes: (i)
franchised automobile dealerships in our markets that sell the same or similar new and used vehicles; (ii) privately negotiated sales of used vehicles; (iii) other
used vehicle retailers, including regional and national vehicle rental companies; (iv) companies with a primarily internet-based business model, such as
Carvana, and used vehicle brokers that sell used vehicles to consumers; (v) service center and parts supply chain stores; and (vi) independent service and
repair shops.
We do not have any cost advantage over other retailers in purchasing new vehicles from manufacturers. We typically rely on our advertising,
merchandising, sales expertise, service reputation, strong local branding and dealership location to sell new vehicles. Because our dealer agreements only
grant us a non-exclusive right to sell a manufacturer’s product within a specified market area, our revenues, gross profit and overall profitability may be
materially adversely affected if competing dealerships expand their market share. Further, our vehicle manufacturers may decide to award additional
franchises in our markets in ways that negatively impact our sales.
The internet has become a significant part of the advertising and sales process in our industry. Customers are using the internet to shop and compare
prices for new and used vehicles, automotive repair and maintenance services, finance and insurance products and other automotive products. If we are unable
to effectively use the internet to attract customers to our own online channels, and mobile applications, and, in turn, to our stores, our business, financial
condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially adversely affected. Additionally, the growing use of social media by consumers increases
the speed and extent that information and opinions can be shared, and negative posts or comments on social media about us or any of our stores could damage
our reputation and brand names, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Additionally, we rely on the protection of state franchise laws in the states in which we operate and if those laws are repealed or weakened, our
framework, franchise and related agreements may become more susceptible to termination, nonrenewal or renegotiation. These laws have historically
restricted the ability of automobile manufacturers to directly enter the retail market and sell vehicles directly to consumers. However, many states have
recently passed or introduced legislation to permit direct to consumer sales of electric vehicles by certain companies, such as Tesla and Rivian, without the
requirements of establishing a dealer network. If the state franchise laws are repealed, weakened or amended to permit vehicle manufacturers to sell vehicles
(whether electric or not) directly to consumers, they may be able to have a competitive advantage over the traditional dealers, which could have a material
adverse effect on our sales in those states, which in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and
cash flows.
We are dependent upon our relationships with the manufacturers of vehicles that we sell and are subject to restrictions imposed by, and significant
influence from, these vehicle manufacturers. Any of these restrictions or any changes or deterioration of these relationships could have a material
adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We are dependent on our relationships with the manufacturers of the vehicles we sell, which have the ability to exercise a great deal of control and
influence over our day-to-day operations, as a result of the terms of our dealer, framework and related agreements. We may obtain new vehicles from
manufacturers, service vehicles, sell new vehicles and display vehicle manufacturers’ trademarks only to the extent permitted under these agreements. The
terms of these agreements may conflict with our interests and objectives and may impose limitations on key aspects of our operations, including acquisition
strategy and capital spending.
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For example, manufacturers can set performance standards with respect to sales volume, sales effectiveness and customer satisfaction, and require us to
obtain manufacturer consent before we can acquire dealerships selling a manufacturer’s automobiles. From time to time, we may be precluded under
agreements with certain manufacturers from acquiring additional franchises, or subject to other adverse actions, to the extent we are not meeting certain
performance criteria at our existing stores (with respect to matters such as sales volume, customer satisfaction and sales effectiveness) until our performance
improves in accordance with the agreements, subject to applicable state franchise laws. In addition, many vehicle manufacturers place limits on the total
number of franchises that any group of affiliated dealerships may own and certain manufacturers place limits on the number of franchises or share of total
brand vehicle sales that may be maintained by an affiliated dealership group on a national, regional or local basis, as well as limits on store ownership in
contiguous markets. If we reach any of these limits, we may be prevented from making further acquisitions, or we may be required to dispose of certain
dealerships, which could adversely affect our future growth. We cannot provide assurance that manufacturers will approve future acquisitions timely, if at all,
which could significantly impair the execution of our acquisition strategy.
In addition, certain manufacturers use a dealership’s manufacturer-determined customer satisfaction index ("CSI") score as a factor governing
participation in incentive programs. To the extent we do not meet minimum score requirements, our future payments may be materially reduced or we may be
precluded from receiving certain incentives, which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Manufacturers also typically establish facilities and minimum capital requirements for dealerships on a case-by-case basis. In certain circumstances,
including as a condition to obtaining consent to a proposed acquisition and qualifying for certain financial incentives, a manufacturer may require us to
remodel, upgrade or move our facilities, and capitalize the subject dealership at levels we would not otherwise choose to fund, causing us to divert our
financial resources away from uses that management believes may be of higher long-term value to us. Delays in obtaining, or failing to obtain, manufacturer
consent, would impede our ability to execute acquisitions that we believe would integrate well with our overall strategy and limit our ability to expand our
business.
Manufacturers can also establish new franchises or relocate existing franchises, subject to applicable state franchise laws. The establishment or relocation
of franchises in our markets could have a material adverse effect on the business, financial condition and results of operations of our dealerships in the market
in which the action is taken.
Manufacturers may also limit our ability to divest one or more of our franchise dealerships in a timely manner. Most of our dealer agreements provide the
manufacturer with a right of first refusal to purchase any of the manufacturer’s franchises we seek to sell. Divestitures of our franchise dealerships may also
require manufacturer consent and failure to obtain consent would require us to find another potential buyer or wait until the buyer is able to meet the
requirements of the manufacturer. A delay in the sale of a dealership could have a negative impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations,
and cash flows.
Manufacturers may terminate or may not renew our dealer and framework agreements, or may compel us to divest our dealerships, for a number of
reasons, including default under the agreement, any unapproved change of control (which specific changes vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but
which include material changes in the composition of our Board of Directors during a specified time period, the acquisition of 5% or more of our voting stock
by another vehicle manufacturer or distributor, the acquisition of 20% or more of our voting stock by third parties, and the acquisition of an ownership
interest sufficient to direct or influence management and policies), or certain other unapproved events (including certain extraordinary corporate transactions
such as a merger or sale of all or substantially all of our assets). Triggers of these clauses are often based upon actions by our stockholders and are generally
outside of our control. Restrictions on any unapproved changes of ownership or management may adversely impact our value, as they may prevent or deter
prospective acquirers from gaining control of us. In addition, actions taken by a manufacturer to exploit its bargaining position in negotiating the terms of
renewals of franchise agreements or otherwise could also have a material adverse effect on our revenues and profitability.
There can be no assurances that we will be able to renew our dealer and framework agreements on a timely basis, on acceptable terms, or at all. Our
business, financial condition and results of operations may be materially adversely affected to the extent that our rights become compromised or our
operations are restricted due to the terms of our dealer or framework agreements or if we lose franchises representing a significant percentage of our revenues
due to the termination of, or failure to renew, such agreements.
If vehicle manufacturers reduce or discontinue sales incentive, warranty or other promotional programs, our business, financial condition, results of
operations and cash flows may be materially adversely affected.
We benefit from certain sales incentive, warranty, and other promotional programs of vehicle manufacturers that are intended to promote and support their
respective new vehicle sales. Key incentive programs include: (i) customer rebates on new vehicles; (ii) dealer incentives on new vehicles; (iii) special
financing or leasing terms; (iv) warranties on new and used vehicles; and (v) sponsorship of used vehicle sales by authorized new vehicle dealers.
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Vehicle manufacturers often make many changes to their incentive programs. Any reduction or discontinuation of manufacturers’ incentive programs for
any reason, including a supply and demand imbalance, may reduce our sales volume which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our business,
financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Technological advances, including electrification of vehicles and adoption of autonomous vehicles in the long-term, could have a material adverse effect
on our business.
The automotive industry is predicted to experience change over the long-term. Technological advances are facilitating the development of electric, battery
powered and hybrid gas/electric vehicles and autonomous vehicles. While most major vehicle manufacturers have announced plans to electrify some or all of
their new vehicle offerings, the eventual timing of widespread availability of electric, battery powered and hybrid gas/electric vehicles and driverless vehicles
is uncertain due to regulatory requirements, additional technological requirements, and uncertain consumer acceptance of these vehicles. We expect to
continue to sell electric, battery powered and hybrid gas/electric vehicles through our dealerships; however, the effect of these vehicles on the automotive
retail business is uncertain and could include changes in the level of the new and used vehicle sales, the price of new and used vehicles and the levels of
service required for such vehicles and the profitability of our parts and service business, our finance and insurance business, including our TCA business, and
the role of franchised dealers, any of which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Risks Related to Our Indebtedness and Financial Matters
Our outstanding indebtedness, ability to incur additional debt and the provisions in the agreements governing our debt, and certain other agreements,
could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
As of December 31, 2024, we had total debt of $3.16 billion and total floor plan notes payable, net of $1.69 billion. We have the ability to incur
substantial additional debt in the future to finance, among other things, acquisitions, working capital and capital expenditures, and new and used vehicle
inventory, as well as to refinance new and used vehicle inventory, subject in each case to the restrictions contained in our debt instruments and other
agreements existing at the time such indebtedness is incurred. We will continue to have substantial debt service obligations, consisting of required cash
payments of principal and interest, for the foreseeable future.
We anticipate the completion of the Herb Chambers Dealerships acquisition will cause us to (i) use a substantial portion of our cash resources; (ii) incur
additional debt, which will increase our interest expense, leverage and debt service requirements; (iii) assume certain liabilities; (iv) record goodwill and
intangible assets that are subject to impairment testing on a regular basis and potential periodic impairment charges; (v) incur tax expenses in connection with
the acquisition and related to the effect of the acquisition on our legal structure; (vi) incur financing, restructuring and other related expenses; and (vii) be
subject to certain litigation of the acquired company. We also expect that the completion of the Herb Chambers Dealerships acquisition will impact our debt
service obligations.
Our debt service obligations could have important consequences to us for the foreseeable future, including the following: (i) our ability to obtain
additional financing, or to obtain such financing on attractive terms, for acquisitions, capital expenditures, working capital or other general corporate purposes
may be impaired; (ii) a substantial portion of our cash flow from operating activities must be dedicated to the payment of principal and interest on our debt,
thereby reducing the funds available to us for our operations and other corporate purposes; (iii) some of our borrowings are and will continue to be at variable
rates of interest, which exposes us to certain risks of interest rate increases; and (iv) we may be or become substantially more leveraged than some of our
competitors, which may place us at a relative competitive disadvantage and make us more vulnerable to changes in market conditions and governmental
regulations.
In addition to our ability to incur additional debt in the future, there are operating and financial restrictions and covenants, such as leverage covenants, in
certain of our debt and mortgage agreements, including the agreement governing our 2023 Senior Credit Facility and our mortgage agreements and related
mortgage guarantees, as well as certain other agreements to which we are a party that may adversely affect our ability to finance our future operations or
capital needs or to pursue certain business activities. These limit, among other things, our ability to incur certain additional debt, create certain liens or other
encumbrances and make certain payments (including dividends and repurchases of our common stock and for investments). Certain of these agreements also
require us to maintain compliance with certain financial ratios, including, but not limited to, our adjusted net leverage ratio.
Our failure to comply with any of these covenants in the future could constitute a default under the relevant agreement, which could, depending on the
relevant agreement, (i) entitle the creditors under such agreement to terminate our ability to borrow under the relevant agreement and accelerate our
obligations to repay outstanding borrowings; (ii) require us to repay those borrowings; (iii) entitle the creditors under such agreement to foreclose on the
property securing the relevant
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indebtedness; or (iv) prevent us from making debt service payments on certain of our other indebtedness, any of which would have a material adverse effect
on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In many cases, a default under one of our debt, mortgage, or other agreements,
could trigger cross-default provisions in one or more of our other debt or mortgage agreements. There can be no assurance that our creditors would agree to
an amendment or waiver of our covenants. In the event we obtain an amendment or waiver, we would likely incur additional fees and higher interest expense.
In addition to the financial and other covenants contained in our various debt or mortgage agreements, certain of our lease agreements contain covenants
that give our landlords the right to terminate the lease, seek significant cash damages, or evict us from the applicable property, if we fail to comply. Similarly,
our failure to comply with any financial or other covenants in any of our framework agreements would give the relevant manufacturer certain rights,
including the right to reject proposed acquisitions, and may give it the right to repurchase its franchises from us. Events that give rise to such rights, and our
inability to acquire additional dealerships or the requirement that we sell one or more of our dealerships at any time, could inhibit the growth of our business,
and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Manufacturers may also have the right to
restrict our ability to provide guarantees of our operating companies, pledges of the capital stock of our subsidiaries and liens on our assets, which could
materially adversely affect our ability to obtain financing for our business and operations on favorable terms or at desired levels, if at all.
The occurrence of any one of these events may limit our ability to take strategic actions that would otherwise enable us to manage our business in a
manner in which we otherwise would, absent such limitations, which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations
and cash flows.
Our business, financial condition and results of operations may be materially adversely affected by increases in interest rates.
We generally finance our purchases of new vehicle inventory, have the ability to finance the purchases of used vehicle inventory, and have the availability
to borrow funds for working capital under our senior secured credit facilities that charge interest at variable rates. Therefore, our interest expense from
variable rate debt will rise with increases in interest rates. In addition, a significant rise in interest rates may also have the effect of depressing demand in the
interest rate sensitive aspects of our business, particularly new and used vehicle sales and the related profit margins and F&I revenue per vehicle, because
most of our customers finance their vehicle purchases. As a result, rising interest rates may have the effect of simultaneously increasing our capital costs and
reducing our revenues. Given our variable interest rate debt and floor plan notes payable outstanding as of December 31, 2024, each one percent increase in
market interest rates would increase our total annual interest expense by approximately $16.7 million. When considered in connection with reduced expected
sales, if interest rates increase, any such increase could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our vehicle sales, financial condition and results of operations may be materially adversely affected by changes in costs or availability of consumer
financing.
The majority of vehicles purchased by our customers are financed. Reductions in the availability of credit to consumers have contributed to declines in
our vehicle sales in past periods. Reductions in available consumer credit or increased costs of that credit, could result in a decline in our vehicle sales, which
would have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
Lenders that have historically provided financing to those buyers who, for various reasons, do not have access to traditional financing, including those
buyers who have a poor credit history or lack the down payment necessary to purchase a vehicle, are often referred to as subprime lenders. If market
conditions cause subprime lenders to tighten credit standards, or if interest rates increase, the ability to obtain financing from subprime lenders for these
consumers to purchase vehicles could become limited, resulting in a decline in our vehicle sales, which in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our
financial condition and results of operations.
We have identified a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting and may identify additional material weaknesses in the future or
otherwise fail to maintain an effective system of internal controls, which may result in material misstatements or otherwise adversely affect the accuracy,
reliability or timeliness of our financial statements.
As described under Item 9A. "Controls and Procedures" below, we have concluded that a material weakness in our internal control over financial
reporting existed as of December 31, 2024 and, accordingly, internal control over financial reporting and our disclosure controls and procedures were not
effective as of such date. A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a
reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our annual or interim consolidated financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely
basis. As a result of management's evaluation, management identified the material weakness as a result of deficiencies in information
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technology general controls ("ITGCs") at a third-party software vendor who supports the Dealer Management System ("DMS") utilized by the Koons
dealership group that we acquired in December 2023.
Management has developed its remediation plan and plans to implement it during 2025. Until the remediation plan is fully implemented, tested and
deemed effective, we cannot provide assurance that our actions will adequately remediate the material weakness or that additional material weaknesses in our
internal controls will not be identified in the future. Effective internal control over financial reporting is necessary for us to provide reliable and timely
financial reports and, together with adequate disclosure controls and procedures, are designed to reasonably detect and prevent fraud. The occurrence of, or
failure to remediate, this material weakness and any future material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting may adversely affect the
accuracy, reliability and timeliness of our financial statements and have other consequences that could materially and adversely affect our business.
Risks Related to Legal and Regulatory Matters
If state laws that protect automotive retailers are repealed, weakened, or superseded by our framework agreements with manufacturers, our dealerships
will be more susceptible to termination, non-renewal, or renegotiation of their dealer agreements, which could have a material adverse effect on our
business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
Applicable state laws generally provide that an automobile manufacturer may not terminate or refuse to renew a dealer agreement unless it has first
provided the dealer with written notice setting forth "good cause" and stating the grounds for termination or non-renewal. Many states also limit the
circumstances in which an automobile manufacturer may sell vehicles directly to consumers. Some state laws allow dealers to file protests or petitions or
allow them to attempt to comply with the manufacturer’s criteria within a notice period to avoid the termination or non-renewal. Our framework agreements
with certain manufacturers contain provisions that, among other things, attempt to limit the protections available to dealers under these laws, and, though
unsuccessful to date, manufacturers’ ongoing lobbying efforts may lead to the repeal or revision of these laws. If these laws are repealed in the states in which
we operate, manufacturers may be able to terminate our franchises without providing advance notice, an opportunity to cure or a showing of good cause.
Without the protection of these state laws, it may also be more difficult for us to renew our dealer agreements upon expiration. Changes in laws that provide
manufacturers the ability to terminate our dealer agreements could materially adversely affect our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash
flows. Furthermore, if a manufacturer seeks protection from creditors in bankruptcy, courts have held that the federal bankruptcy laws may supersede the state
laws that protect automotive retailers resulting in either the termination, non-renewal or rejection of franchises by such manufacturers, which, in turn, could
materially adversely affect our business, result of operations, financial condition and cash flows. Market disruptors continue to push for legislation permitting
direct-to-consumer sales models; if those lobbying efforts are successful, automotive manufacturers could bypass the traditional franchised dealer network,
which in turn could materially adversely affect our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
New laws, regulations, or governmental policies in response to climate change, including fuel economy and greenhouse gas emission standards, or
changes to existing standards, could adversely impact our business, results of operations, financial condition, cash flow, and prospects.
New laws and regulations designed to address climate change concerns could affect vehicle manufacturers’ ability to produce cost effective vehicles. For
example, laws and regulations enacted that directly or indirectly affect vehicle manufacturers (through an increase in the cost of production or their ability to
produce satisfactory products) or our business (through an impact on our inventory availability, cost of sales, operations or demand for the products we sell)
could materially adversely impact our business, results of operations, financial condition, cash flow, and prospects. In addition, vehicle manufacturers are
subject to government-mandated fuel economy and greenhouse gas, or GHG, emission standards, which continue to change and become more stringent over
time. Significant increases in fuel economy requirements or new federal or state restrictions on emissions of carbon dioxide that may be imposed on vehicles
and automobile fuels could adversely affect demand for vehicles, annual miles driven or the products we sell or lead to changes in automotive technology.
A failure of any of our information systems or those of our third-party service providers, the inability to successfully transition from one key information
system platform to a different platform, or a data security breach with regard to personally identifiable information ("PII") about our customers or
employees, could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
We depend on the efficient operation of our information systems and those of our third-party service providers. We rely on information systems at our
dealerships in all aspects of our sales and service efforts, as well as in the preparation of our consolidated financial and operating data. All of our dealerships
currently operate on three dealer management systems ("DMS"). We have piloted a new DMS, and the inability to successfully transition from our existing
DMS to a new DMS could
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have a material adverse effect on the management of our day-to-day business activities. Additionally, in the ordinary course of business, we and our partners
receive significant PII about our customers in order to complete the sale or service of a vehicle and related products. We also receive PII from our employees.
The regulatory environment surrounding information security and privacy is increasingly demanding, with numerous state and federal regulations, as well as
payment card industry and other vendor standards, governing the collection and maintenance of PII from consumers and other individuals.
Cyber incidents can result from human error or intentional (or deliberate) attacks or unintentional events by insiders (e.g., employees) or third parties,
including cybercriminals, competitors, nation-states and "hacktivists," among others. Cyber incidents can include, for example, phishing, credential
harvesting or use of stolen access credentials, unauthorized access to systems, networks or devices (for example, through hacking activity), structured query
language attacks, infection from or spread of malware, ransomware, computer viruses or other malicious software code, corruption of data, exfiltration of data
to malicious sites, the dark web or other locations or threat actors, the use of fraudulent or fake websites, and other attacks (including, but not limited to,
denial-of-service attacks on websites), which shut down, disable, slow, impair or otherwise disrupt operations, business processes, technology, connectivity or
website or internet access, functionality or performance. In addition to intentional cyber incidents, unintentional cyber incidents can occur (for example, the
inadvertent release of confidential or non-public personal information). Changes to our business, processes, systems, or technology, if not implemented
properly, can increase our vulnerability to cyber incidents.
Our business could be significantly disrupted if (i) the DMS fails to integrate with other third-party information systems, customer relations management
tools or other software, or to the extent that any of these systems become unavailable to us or fail to perform as designed for an extended period of time for
any reason or (ii) our relationship with our DMS providers or any other third-party provider deteriorates. Additionally, any disruption to access and
connectivity of our information systems due to natural disasters, power loss or other reasons could disrupt our business operations, impact sales and results of
operations, expose us to customer or third-party claims, or result in adverse publicity. In addition, we believe the automotive dealership industry is a particular
target of identity thieves and other threat actors, as there are numerous opportunities for cybersecurity incidents, including cybersecurity breaches, burglary,
lost or misplaced data, malware, ransomware, computer viruses or other malicious software code, corruption of data, exfiltration of data to malicious sites, the
dark web or other locations or threat actors, or misappropriation of data by employees, vendors or unaffiliated third parties. Because of the increasing number
and sophistication of some cybersecurity incidents and cyber-attacks, and despite the security measures we have in place and any additional measures we may
implement or adopt in the future, our facilities and systems, and those of our third-party service providers and business partners, could be vulnerable to
cybersecurity incidents, security breaches, computer viruses, lost or misplaced data, programming errors, scams, burglary, human errors, acts of vandalism
and/or other events. While we and the business partners and service providers on which we rely have experienced cybersecurity incidents in the past, and may
experience additional incidents in the future, we are not aware of any incident having a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or
financial condition to date. However, there can be no assurance that we or the business partners and service providers on which we rely will not experience
future cybersecurity incidents that may be material. Although we believe we have systems and processes in place to protect against risks associated with
cybersecurity incidents in the future, depending on the nature of an incident, these protections may not be fully sufficient. In addition, because techniques
used in cybersecurity attacks and incidents change frequently and may not be recognized until launched against a target, we or our business partners and
service providers may be unable to anticipate these techniques or to implement adequate preventative measures. An incident may not be detected until well
after it occurs and the severity and potential impact may not be fully known for a substantial period of time after it has been discovered. Any such alleged or
actual incident can increase costs of doing business, negatively affect customer satisfaction and loyalty, expose us to negative publicity, individual claims or
consumer class actions, administrative, civil or criminal investigations or actions, and infringe on proprietary information, any of which could have a material
adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Our dealership operations and facilities are subject to extensive governmental laws and regulations. If we are found to be in purported violation of or
subject to liabilities under any of these laws or regulations, or if new laws or regulations are enacted that adversely affect our operations, our business,
results of operations, financial condition, cash flows, reputation and prospects could suffer.
The automotive retail industry, including our facilities and operations, is subject to a wide range of federal, state, and local laws and regulations, such as
those relating to motor vehicle sales, retail installment sales, leasing, finance and insurance, marketing, licensing, consumer protection, consumer privacy,
escheatment, anti-money laundering, environmental, vehicle emissions and fuel economy, and health and safety. In addition, with respect to employment
practices, we are subject to various laws and regulations, including complex federal, state, and local wage and hour and anti-discrimination laws. The
violation of the laws or regulations to which we are subject could result in administrative, civil, or criminal sanctions against us, which may include a cease
and desist order against the subject operations or even revocation or suspension of our license to operate the subject business, as well as significant fines and
penalties. Violation of certain laws and regulations to which we are subject may also subject us to consumer class action or other lawsuits or governmental
investigations and adverse publicity. We
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currently devote significant resources to comply with applicable federal, state, and local regulation of health, safety, environmental, zoning and land use
regulations, and we may need to spend additional time, effort, and money to keep our operations and existing or acquired facilities in compliance therewith.
In addition, there is a risk that our employees could engage in misconduct that violates the laws or regulations to which we are subject. It is not always
possible to detect or deter employee misconduct, and the precautions we take to detect and prevent this activity may not be effective in all cases. If any of our
employees were to engage in misconduct or were to be accused of such misconduct, our business and reputation could be adversely affected.
The CFPB does not have direct regulatory authority over automotive dealers but could implement additional, indirect regulation of automotive dealers, in
particular, their sale and marketing of finance and insurance products, through its regulation of automotive finance companies and other financial institutions.
In addition, the CFPB possesses supervisory authority with respect to certain non-bank lenders, including automotive finance companies, participating in
automotive financing. The FTC may exercise its additional rule-making authority to expand consumer protection regulations relating to the sale, financing
and leasing of motor vehicles.
In May 2016, we signed a consent order with the FTC to settle allegations that in certain instances our advertisements did not adequately disclose
information about used vehicles with open safety recalls. Under the consent order, we did not agree to make any payments or admit wrong-doing, but we did
agree to make certain disclosures in marketing materials and at the point of sale and comply with certain record-keeping obligations. Our failure to comply
with the consent order may result in the imposition of significant fines and/or penalties, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of
operations. In January 2024, the FTC published the Combatting Auto Retail Scams Final Rule (the "CARS Rule"), which prohibits a broad range of current
accepted industry sales and marketing practices and imposes significant new dealer disclosure obligations and record-keeping requirements throughout the
vehicle-buying process. The FTC stayed the CARS Rule’s original effective date of July 30, 2024 pending the resolution of a judicial challenge to the CARS
Rule. On January 27, 2025, the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit ruled to vacate the CARS Rule on the basis that the FTC violated
procedural rules by not providing advance notice of the planned regulation. Although currently nullified based on the Fifth Circuit's ruling, compliance with
the CARS Rule, if it becomes effective, would be burdensome and cause us to incur increased costs. A failure to comply with the CARS Rule would expose
us to potential significant damages, penalties and adverse publicity, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, operations and financial
results.
Continued pressure from the CFPB, FTC, and other federal agencies could lead to significant changes in the manner that dealers are compensated for
arranging customer financing and vehicle protection products, and while it is difficult to predict how any such changes might impact us, any adverse changes
could have a material adverse impact on our finance and insurance business and results of operations. Furthermore, we expect that new laws and regulations,
particularly at the federal level, in other areas may be enacted, which could also materially adversely impact our business. On August 3, 2022, we received a
Civil Investigative Demand ("CID") from the FTC requesting information and documents concerning the Company’s corporate structure and operation of six
of its dealerships. We responded to the CID by producing information and documents for the period August 1, 2019 to April 24, 2023. On February 8, 2024,
the FTC staff counsel sent to us a proposed consent order and draft complaint, alleging that the Company and three of our dealerships had violated Section 5
of the Federal Trade Commission Act ("FTC Act") and certain provisions of the Equal Credit Opportunity Act ("ECOA") in connection with the sale of add-
on products (e.g., vehicle service contracts, maintenance plans, etc.), and advised that it would recommend the filing of an enforcement action if the Company
did not settle the FTC’s claims. The Company vigorously disputed, and continues to vigorously dispute, the FTC’s allegations that it violated the FTC Act and
the ECOA. As a result, on August 16, 2024, the FTC initiated an administrative proceeding by filing an enforcement action against the Company; David
McDavid Honda Frisco, David McDavid Honda Irving, and David McDavid Ford Fort Worth, three of the Company’s dealerships; and an individual general
manager at one of the dealerships pursuant to the allegations set forth above. On October 4, 2024, the Company filed a lawsuit against the FTC in the United
States District Court for the Northern District of Texas, seeking to enjoin the FTC’s administrative proceeding on the ground that the administrative
proceeding was unconstitutional. Among other things, the Company’s lawsuit asserts that the FTC’s administrative proceeding violates Asbury’s
constitutional rights by denying it the right to a jury trial and by allowing the FTC to serve as both prosecutor and judge in the same proceeding. The
Company’s lawsuit also contends that FTC commissioners and in-house administrative law judges are effectively insulated from removal by the President in
contravention of the Constitution’s requirements. At this time, we are unable to reasonably predict the possible outcome of the Company’s dispute with the
FTC, or provide a reasonably possible range of loss, if any. There can be no assurance that the Company will succeed in either the FTC’s administrative
proceeding against the Company or in the Company’s lawsuit against the FTC, and the FTC’s allegations, whether meritorious or not, may adversely affect
our ability to attract customers, result in the loss of existing customers, harm our reputation and cause us to incur defense costs and other expenses.
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Environmental laws and regulations govern, among other things, discharges into the air and water, storage of petroleum substances and chemicals, the
handling and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes, investigation and remediation of contamination. Similar to many of our competitors, we have incurred
and expect to continue to incur capital and operating expenditures and other costs to comply with such federal and state laws and regulations. In addition, we
may become subject to broad liabilities arising out of contamination at our currently and formerly owned or operated facilities, at locations to which
hazardous substances were transported from such facilities, and at such locations related to entities formerly affiliated with us. Liability under these laws and
regulations can be imposed on a joint and several basis and without regard to fault. For such potential liabilities, we believe we are entitled to indemnification
from other entities. However, we cannot provide assurance that such entities will view their obligations as we do or will be able or willing to satisfy them. We
may have indemnity obligations for liabilities relating to contamination at our currently or formerly owned and/or operated facilities as part of the acquisition
or divestiture of certain properties in the ordinary course of business. Failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations, or significant additional
expenditures required to maintain compliance therewith, could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition or
cash flows.
A significant judgment against us or the imposition of a significant fine could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and
future prospects. We further expect that, from time to time, new laws and regulations, particularly in the environmental area, will be enacted, and compliance
with such laws, or penalties for failure to comply, could significantly increase our costs. For example, vehicle manufacturers are subject to government-
mandated fuel economy and greenhouse gas emission standards, which continue to change and become more stringent over time. Failure of a manufacturer to
develop passenger vehicles and light trucks that meet these and other government standards could subject the manufacturer to substantial penalties, increase
the cost of vehicles sold to us, and adversely affect our ability to market and sell vehicles to meet consumer needs and desires, which could have a material
adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition or cash flows.
Our TCA business is subject to a wide range of federal, state, and local laws and regulations, some of which we may not have previously been subject. If
we are found to be in purported violation of or subject to liabilities under any of these laws or regulations, or if new laws or regulations are enacted that
adversely affect our TCA business, our business, results of operations, financial condition, cash flows, reputation and prospects could suffer.
The TCA business is, and will continue to be, subject to a wide range of federal, state, and local laws and regulations, some of which Asbury may not
have been previously subject. Such laws and regulations include but are not limited to:
•
state and local licensing requirements;
•
federal and state laws regulating vehicle finance and insurance products; and
•
federal and state consumer protection laws.
No assurance can be given that applicable statutes, regulations, and other laws will not be amended or construed differently, that new laws will not be
adopted, or that any of these laws will not be enforced more aggressively. For example, changes in the regulatory and supervisory environments could
adversely affect the TCA business in substantial and unpredictable ways. Further, the TCA business’ noncompliance with applicable laws (whether as a result
of changes in interpretation or enforcement, system or human errors, or otherwise) could result in the suspension or revocation of licenses or registrations
necessary to the operation, or the initiation of enforcement actions or private litigation.
In addition, we are required to set aside an amount of restricted cash sufficient to satisfy potential claims associated with the TCA business. While we are
permitted to invest such cash in fixed income and equity securities, and other investments, we cannot provide any assurance that a loss in such investments
would not have a material adverse effect on our ability to honor customers’ claims, which could have a material adverse effect on our business.
We are subject to risks related to the provision of employee health care benefits, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of
operations, financial condition and cash flows.
We use a combination of insurance and self-insurance for health care plans. We record expenses under those plans based on estimates of the costs of
expected claims, administrative costs, stop-loss insurance premiums, and expected health care trends. Actual costs under these plans are subject to variability
that is dependent upon participant enrollment, demographics and the actual costs of claims made. Negative trends in any of these areas could cause us to incur
additional unplanned health care costs, which could adversely impact our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, if
enrollment in our health care plans increases significantly, the additional costs that we will incur may be significant enough to materially affect our business,
financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
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We are, and expect to continue to be, subject to legal and administrative proceedings, which, if the outcomes are adverse to us, could have a material
adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, cash flows, reputation and prospects.
We are involved and expect to continue to be involved in numerous legal proceedings arising out of the conduct of our business, including litigation with
customers, employment-related lawsuits, class actions, purported class actions, and actions brought by governmental authorities. We do not believe that the
ultimate resolution of any known matters will have a material adverse effect on our business, reputation, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows
or prospects. However, the results of these matters cannot be predicted with certainty, and an unfavorable resolution of one or more of these matters could
have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
A decline in our credit rating or a general disruption in the credit markets could negatively impact our liquidity and ability to conduct our operations.
A deterioration of our credit rating, or a general disruption in the credit markets, could limit our ability to obtain credit on terms acceptable to us, or at all.
In addition, uncertain economic conditions or the re-pricing of certain credit risks may make it more difficult for us to obtain one or more types of funding in
the amounts, or at rates considered acceptable to us, at any given time. Our inability to access necessary or desirable funding, or to enter into certain related
transactions, at times and at costs deemed appropriate by us, could have a negative impact on our liquidity and our ability to conduct our operations. Any of
these developments could also reduce the ability or willingness of the financial institutions that have extended credit commitments to us, or that have entered
into hedge or similar transactions with us, to fulfill their obligations to us, which also could have a material adverse effect on our liquidity, our ability to
conduct our operations and our prospects.
We are subject to risks associated with imported product restrictions or limitations, foreign trade and currency valuations.
Our business involves the sale of vehicles, parts or vehicles composed of parts that are manufactured outside of the United States. As a result, our
operations are subject to risks of doing business outside of the United States and importing merchandise, including import duties, exchange rates, trade
restrictions, work stoppages, natural or man-made disasters, and general political and socio-economic conditions in other countries. The United States or the
countries from which our products are imported may, from time to time, impose new quotas, duties, tariffs or other restrictions or limitations, or adjust
presently prevailing quotas, duties or tariffs, including recently proclaimed and possible future tariffs. The imposition of new, or adjustments to prevailing,
quotas, duties, tariffs or other restrictions or limitations could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and
cash flows. Relative weakness of the U.S. dollar against foreign currencies in the future may result in an increase in costs to us and in the retail price of such
vehicles or parts, which could discourage consumers from purchasing such vehicles and adversely impact our revenues and profitability.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
None.
Item 1C. Cybersecurity
Overview
We have processes in place designed to protect our information systems, data, assets, infrastructure, and computing environments from cybersecurity
threats and risks while maintaining confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Our cybersecurity risk management processes are integrated into our enterprise
risk management program.
Training
We conduct regular training for cybersecurity awareness of our employees, senior executives, and certain other vendors or personnel. We also perform
phishing and social engineering simulations and provide cybersecurity training for personnel with Company email and access to Company assets. We
disseminate security awareness communications to certain employees to highlight emerging or urgent cybersecurity threats.
Asbury’s information and data security training programs are housed in a Learning Management System ("LMS"). We migrate our acquired companies
into Asbury’s current LMS.
Governance
Our Chief Information Officer ("CIO"), who has over 35 years of experience in the technology field, oversees cybersecurity, data privacy and manages
Asbury’s information and security procedures. Asbury also has a Director of Cybersecurity, as well as a formal team of analysts.
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Our Board of Directors maintains ultimate oversight of the Company’s enterprise risk management program, which includes material cyber security risks.
Under the oversight of the audit committee and capital allocation and risk management committee of the Company’s Board of Directors, and as directed by
the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, our CIO is responsible for the assessment and management of material cybersecurity risks. Our CIO oversees the
Company’s cybersecurity incident response plan and related processes that are designed to assess and manage material risks from cybersecurity threats. The
CIO also coordinates with the Company’s legal counsel and third parties, such as consultants and legal advisors, to assess and manage material risks from
cybersecurity threats. Our CIO is informed about and monitors the prevention, detection, mitigation, and remediation of cybersecurity incidents pursuant to
criteria set forth in the Company’s incident response plan and related processes.
The capital allocation and risk management committee of the Company’s Board of Directors assists the Board in the periodic review and evaluation of the
Company’s risk profile and related risk management processes which identify and manage the Company’s key financial, strategic and operational risks. The
audit committee of the Company’s Board of Directors oversees, among other things, the adequacy and effectiveness of the Company’s internal controls,
including internal controls designed to assess, identify, and manage material risks from cybersecurity threats. The audit committee is informed of material
risks from cybersecurity threats pursuant to the escalation criteria as set forth in the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures. Further, our CIO reports
on cybersecurity matters, including material risks and threats, to the Company’s audit committee on a quarterly basis, and the audit committee provides
updates to the Company’s Board of Directors at regular board meetings. In addition, the audit committee and capital allocation and risk management
committee hold a joint meeting annually during which the CIO provides a comprehensive update regarding the assessment and management of material
cybersecurity risks. Our CIO also provides updates as appropriate to the Company’s Board of Directors.
Risk Management
We have processes for assessing, identifying, and managing material risks from cybersecurity threats. These processes are integrated into the Company’s
overall risk management systems. These processes also include overseeing and identifying risks from cybersecurity threats associated with the use of third-
party service providers. The Company conducts security assessments of certain third-party providers before engagement and has established monitoring
procedures in its effort to mitigate risks related to data breaches or other security incidents originating from third parties. The Company from time to time
engages third-party consultants, legal advisors, and audit firms in evaluating and testing the Company’s risk management systems and assessing and
remediating certain potential cybersecurity incidents as appropriate.
Management
In an effort to effectively prevent, detect, and respond to cybersecurity threats, we employ a multi-layered cybersecurity risk management program
supervised by our CIO, whose team is responsible for leading enterprise-wide cybersecurity strategy, policy, architecture, and processes. This responsibility
includes identifying, considering, and assessing potentially material cybersecurity incidents on an ongoing basis, establishing processes designed to prevent
and monitor potential cybersecurity risks, implementing mitigation and remedial measures, and maintaining our cybersecurity program. To do so, our
program leverages both internal and external techniques and expertise. Internally, among other things, we may perform penetration tests, internal tests/code
reviews, and simulations using cybersecurity professionals to assess vulnerabilities in our information systems and evaluate our cyber defense capabilities.
Our cybersecurity capabilities, processes, and other security measures also include, without limitation:
•
Service Organization Controls ("SOC")-as-a-Service (SOCaas) wherein a third-party vendor operates and maintains a fully-managed SOC on a
subscription basis via the cloud;
•
Security Information and Event Management ("SIEM") software, which provides a threat detection, compliance, and security incident management
system;
•
Endpoint Detection and Response ("EDR") software, which monitors for malicious activities on internal endpoints (e.g., Windows workstations,
servers, MAC clients, and Linux endpoints);
•
Cloud monitoring; and
•
Disaster recovery and incident response plans, including a ransomware response plan.
Although we believe we have systems and processes in place to protect against risks associated with cybersecurity incidents in the future, depending on
the nature of an incident, these protections may not be fully sufficient. We, or the business partners or services providers on which we rely, have experienced
cybersecurity incidents in the past that have resulted in disruptions, technology failures, or unauthorized persons gaining access to certain information
systems, and we could in the future experience similar incidents. As of the date of this Form 10-K, no cybersecurity incident or attack, or any risk from
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cybersecurity threat, has materially affected or has been determined to be reasonably likely to materially affect the Company, our business strategy, results of
operations, or financial condition. For additional information regarding the risks from cybersecurity threats we face, see the section captioned. For further
discussion of the risks associated with cybersecurity incidents, see "A failure of any of our information systems or those of our third-party service providers,
or a data security breach with regard to personally identifiable information ("PII") about our customers or employees, could have a material adverse effect
on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows." beginning on page 27 of the section entitled "Item 1A. Risk Factors" in this Form
10-K.
Item 2. Properties
We lease our corporate headquarters, which is located at 2905 Premiere Parkway, NW, Suite 300, Duluth, Georgia 30097. In November 2024, we acquired
real estate in Sandy Springs, Georgia to serve as our future corporate headquarters. We anticipate the relocation to our new corporate headquarters during the
second half of 2025. We also have a corporate office in Texas. The operations of our TCA business are located in leased office space in Utah.
As of December 31, 2024, our operations encompassed 152 franchised dealership locations, 37 collision repair centers, throughout 14 states as follows:
Dealerships
Collision Repair Centers
Dealership Group Brand Name:
Owned
Leased
Owned
Leased
Coggin Automotive Group
12
4 (a)
5
2
Courtesy Autogroup
6
2
2
—
Crown Automotive Company
3
1 (b)
—
—
David McDavid Auto Group
4
—
2
—
Greenville Automotive Group
4
1
1
—
Hare, Bill Estes & Kahlo Automotive Groups
9
—
1
—
Koons Automotive Group
17
2
5
1
Larry H. Miller Dealerships
41
4 (b)
7
2
Mike Shaw, Stevinson & Arapahoe Automotive Groups
8
4
—
—
Nalley Automotive Group
14
1
4
1
Park Place Automotive
5
4 (c)
2
1
Plaza Motor Company
5
1 (b)
—
1
Total
128
24
29
8
______________________________________
(a)
Includes one dealership that leases a new vehicle facility and operates a separate used vehicle facility that is owned.
(b)
Includes one dealership location where we lease the underlying land but own the building facilities on that land.
(c)
Includes two dealership location where we lease the underlying land but own the building facilities on that land.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
From time to time, we and our dealerships are involved and will continue to be involved in various claims relating to, and arising out of, our business and
our operations. These claims may involve, but are not limited to, financial and other audits by vehicle manufacturers or lenders, and certain federal, state, and
local government authorities, which relate primarily to (i) incentive and warranty payments received from vehicle manufacturers, or allegations of violations
of manufacturer agreements or policies, (ii) compliance with lender rules and covenants and (iii) payments made to government authorities relating to federal,
state, and local taxes, as well as compliance with other government regulations. Claims may also arise through litigation, government proceedings, and other
dispute resolution processes. Such claims, including class actions, can relate to, but are not limited to, the practice of charging administrative fees,
employment-related matters, truth-in-lending practices, contractual disputes, actions brought by governmental authorities, and other matters. We evaluate
pending and threatened claims and establish loss contingency reserves based upon outcomes we currently believe to be probable and reasonably estimable.
We do not believe that the ultimate resolution of the claims we are involved in will have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations,
financial condition, cash flow and prospects.
On August 3, 2022, we received a Civil Investigative Demand ("CID") from the Federal Trade Commission (the "FTC") requesting information and
documents concerning the Company’s corporate structure and operation of six of its dealerships. We responded to the CID by producing information and
documents for the period August 1, 2019 to April 24, 2023. On February 8, 2024, the FTC staff counsel sent to us a proposed consent order and draft
complaint, alleging that the Company and
33
Table of Contents
three of our dealerships had violated Section 5 of the Federal Trade Commission Act ("FTC Act") and certain provisions of the Equal Credit Opportunity Act
("ECOA") in connection with the sale of add-on products (e.g., vehicle service contracts, maintenance plans, etc.), and advising that it would recommend the
filing of an enforcement action if the Company did not settle the FTC’s claims. The Company vigorously disputed, and continues to vigorously dispute, the
FTC’s allegations that it violated the FTC Act and the ECOA. As a result, on August 16, 2024, the FTC initiated an administrative proceeding by filing an
enforcement action against the Company; David McDavid Honda Frisco, David McDavid Honda Irving, and David McDavid Ford Fort Worth, three of the
Company’s dealerships; and an individual general manager at one of the dealerships pursuant to the allegations set forth above. On October 4, 2024, the
Company filed a lawsuit against the FTC in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas, seeking to enjoin the FTC’s administrative
proceeding on the ground that the administrative proceeding was unconstitutional. Among other things, the Company’s lawsuit asserts that the FTC’s
administrative proceeding violates Asbury’s constitutional rights by denying it the right to a jury trial and by allowing the FTC to serve as both prosecutor and
judge in the same proceeding. The Company’s lawsuit also contends that FTC commissioners and in-house administrative law judges are effectively insulated
from removal by the President in contravention of the Constitution’s requirements. At this time, we are unable to reasonably predict the possible outcome of
the Company’s dispute with the FTC, or provide a reasonably possible range of loss, if any. There can be no assurance that the Company will succeed in
either the FTC’s administrative proceeding against the Company or in the Company’s lawsuit against the FTC, and the FTC’s allegations, whether meritorious
or not, may adversely affect our ability to attract customers, result in the loss of existing customers, harm our reputation and cause us to incur defense costs
and other expenses.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
Not applicable.
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PART II
Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Our common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (the "NYSE") under the symbol "ABG."
We have not paid any dividends since 2008. On February 24, 2025, the last reported sale price of our common stock on the NYSE was $274.15 per share,
and there were approximately 511 record holders of our common stock.
Our credit agreement with Bank of America, N.A. ("Bank of America"), as administrative agent, and the other agents and lenders party thereto (the "2023
Senior Credit Facility") and the Indentures governing the Senior Notes (as defined below) (collectively, the "Indentures") currently allow for us to make
certain restricted payments, including payments to repurchase shares of our common stock, among other things, subject to our continued compliance with
certain covenants. For additional information, see the "Covenants and Defaults" section within "Liquidity and Capital Resources."
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Share repurchases are implemented through purchases made from time to time in either the open market or private transactions. The share repurchases
could include purchases pursuant to a written trading plan in accordance with Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which
allows companies to repurchase shares of stock at times when they might otherwise be prevented from doing so by securities laws or under self-imposed
trading blackout periods. The extent that the Company repurchases its shares, the number of shares and the timing of any repurchases will depend on general
market conditions, legal requirements and other corporate considerations. The repurchase program may be modified, suspended or terminated at any time
without prior notice.
Information about the shares of our common stock that we repurchased during the quarter ended December 31, 2024 is set forth below:
Period
Total Number of
Shares (or Units)
Purchased
Average Price Paid
per Share (or Unit)
Total Number of Shares
(or Units) Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Plans or
Programs
Maximum Number (or
Approximate Dollar Value) of
Shares (or Units) that May Yet
Be Purchased Under the Plans
or Programs (In millions
10/01/2024 - 10/31/2024
3,957
$
219.97
3,957
$
275.9
11/01/2024 - 11/30/2024
206
$
255.29
—
$
275.9
12/01/2024 - 12/31/2024
24
$
258.98
—
$
275.9
Total
4,187
3,957
On May 15, 2024, the Company announced that its Board of Directors approved an increase of $256.2 million in the Company's common share
repurchase authorization to $400 million (the "New Share Repurchase Authorization"), for the repurchase of our common stock in open market transactions
or privately negotiated transactions or in other manners as permitted by federal securities laws and other legal and contractual requirements.
The extent to which the Company repurchases its shares, the number of shares and the timing of any repurchase will depend on such factors as Asbury’s
stock price, general economic and market conditions, the potential impact on its capital structure, the expected return on competing uses of capital such as
strategic dealership acquisitions and capital investments and other considerations. The program does not require the Company to repurchase any specific
number of shares, and may be modified, suspended or terminated at any time without further notice.
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Table of Contents
PERFORMANCE GRAPH
The following graph furnished by us shows the value as of December 31, 2024, of a $100 investment in our common stock made on December 31, 2019,
as compared with similar investments based on (i) the value of the S&P 500 Index (with dividends reinvested) and (ii) the value of a market-weighted Peer
Group Index composed of the common stock of AutoNation, Inc.; Sonic Automotive, Inc.; Group 1 Automotive, Inc.; Penske Automotive Group, Inc.; and
Lithia Motors, Inc., in each case on a "total return" basis assuming the reinvestment of any dividends. The market-weighted Peer Group Index values were
calculated from the beginning of the performance period. The historical stock performance shown below is not necessarily indicative of future expected
performance.
The forgoing graph is not, and shall not be deemed to be, filed as part of our annual report on Form 10-K. Such graph is not, and will not be deemed, filed
or incorporated by reference into any filing by us under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, except to the extent specifically
incorporated by reference therein by us.
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Item 6. Reserved
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
This MD&A should be read in conjunction with the accompanying audited consolidated financial statements and notes. Forward-looking statements in
this MD&A are not guarantees of future performance and may involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those
projected. Refer to the "Forward-Looking Statements" and Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors for a discussion of these risks and uncertainties. The discussion of
our financial condition and results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2022 is included in Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.
OVERVIEW
We are one of the largest automotive retailers in the United States. As of December 31, 2024, through our Dealerships segment, we owned and operated
198 new vehicle franchises (152 dealership locations), representing 31 brands of automobiles, within 14 states. We also operated 37 collision centers, and
Total Care Auto, Powered by Landcar ("TCA"), our F&I product provider. Our stores offer an extensive range of automotive products and services, including
new and used vehicles; parts and service, which include repair and maintenance services, replacement parts, and collision repair service; and finance and
insurance products. The finance and insurance products are provided by both TCA and independent third parties. The F&I products offered by TCA are sold
through affiliated dealerships. For the year ended December 31, 2024, our new vehicle revenue brand mix consisted of 41% imports, 30% luxury, and 29%
domestic brands. The Company manages its operations in two reportable segments: Dealerships and TCA.
Our Dealerships segment revenues are derived primarily from: (i) the sale of new vehicles; (ii) the sale of used vehicles to individual retail customers
("used retail") and to other dealers at auction ("wholesale") (the terms "used retail" and "wholesale" are collectively referred to as "used"); (iii) repair and
maintenance services, collision repair, the sale of automotive replacement parts, and the reconditioning of used vehicles (collectively referred to as "parts and
service"); and (iv) the arrangement of third-party vehicle financing and the sale of a number of vehicle protection products. F&I products are offered by
dealerships to customers in connection with the purchase of vehicles through either TCA or independent third parties. We evaluate the results of our new and
used vehicle sales based on unit volumes and gross profit per vehicle sold, our parts and service operations based on aggregate gross profit, and our F&I
business based on F&I gross profit per vehicle sold. Amounts presented have been calculated using non-rounded amounts for all periods presented and
therefore certain amounts may not compute due to rounding.
Our dealerships gross profit margin varies with our revenue mix. Historically, the sales of new vehicles generally results in a lower gross profit margin
than used vehicle sales, sales of parts and service, and sales of F&I products. As a result, when used vehicle, parts and service, and F&I revenue increase as a
percentage of total revenue, we expect our overall gross profit margin to increase. However, during and after the COVID-pandemic, new vehicle gross profit
margins have been above historical levels and higher than used vehicle gross margins as a result of inventory disruptions from supply chain issues.
Our TCA segment revenues, reflected in F&I revenue, net, are derived from the sale of various vehicle protection products including vehicle service
contracts, GAP, prepaid maintenance contracts, and appearance protection contracts. These products are sold through company-owned dealerships. TCA's
F&I revenues also include investment gains or losses and income earned associated with the performance of TCA's investment portfolio.
Our TCA segment gross profit margin can vary due to incurred claims expense and the performance of our investment portfolio. Certain F&I products
may result in higher gross profit margins to TCA. Therefore, the product mix of F&I products sold by TCA can affect the gross profits earned. In addition,
interest rate volatility based on economic and market conditions outside the control of the Company, may increase or reduce TCA segment gross profit
margins as well as the fair market values of certain securities within our investment portfolio. Fair market values typically fluctuate inversely to the
fluctuations in interest rates.
Selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses consist primarily of fixed and incentive-based compensation, advertising, rent, insurance, utilities,
and other customary operating expenses. A significant portion of our cost structure is variable (such as sales commissions) or controllable (such as
advertising), which we believe allows us to adapt to changes in the retail environment over the long-term. We evaluate commissions paid to salespeople as a
percentage of retail vehicle gross profit, advertising expense on a per vehicle retailed ("PVR") basis, and all other SG&A expenses in the aggregate as a
percentage of total gross profit. Commissions expense paid by TCA to our affiliated dealerships and reflected as F&I revenue in our Dealerships segment is
eliminated in the consolidated financial statements.
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Our continued organic growth is dependent upon the execution of our balanced automotive retailing and service business strategy, the continued strength
of our brand mix, and the production and allocation of desirable vehicles from the automobile manufacturers whose brands we sell. Our vehicle sales have
historically fluctuated with product availability as well as local and national economic conditions, including consumer confidence, availability of consumer
credit, fuel prices, and employment levels.
In addition, our ability to sell certain new and used vehicles can be negatively impacted by a number of factors, some of which are outside of our control.
Certain manufacturers continue to be hampered by the lack of availability of parts and key components from suppliers which has impacted new vehicle
inventory levels and availability of certain parts. We cannot predict with any certainty how long the automotive retail industry will continue to be subject to
these production slowdowns or when normalized production will resume at these manufacturers.
Recent Events
Pending acquisition
On February 14, 2025, the Company, through one of its subsidiaries, entered into a Purchase and Sale Agreement (the "Transaction Agreement") with
various entities that comprise the Herb Chambers automotive group (the "Herb Chambers Dealerships"). Pursuant to the Transaction Agreement, the
Company is expected to acquire substantially all of the assets, including all real property and businesses of the Herb Chambers Dealerships (collectively, the
"Businesses") for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $1.34 billion, which includes $750 million for goodwill, and approximately $590 million for
the real estate and leasehold improvements. In addition, the Company will acquire new vehicles, used vehicles, service loaner vehicles, fixed assets, parts and
supplies for a purchase price to be determined at the closing (the “Closing”) of the transactions set forth in the Transaction Agreement and will reimburse the
Herb Chambers Dealerships for certain dealership construction and development costs incurred prior to the Closing. The Businesses include 33 dealerships,
52 franchises and three collision centers. Herb Chambers will retain ownership of the Mercedes-Benz of Boston dealership in Somerville, Massachusetts (the
"MB Boston Dealership"). The Transaction Agreement includes certain restrictions and obligations regarding the sale of the MB Boston Dealership, including
a put right obligating the Company to purchase the MB Boston Dealership during the five-year period following the Closing, absent certain circumstances.
The Company's acquisition of the Businesses is anticipated to close in the second quarter of 2025 and is subject to various customary closing conditions,
including approval from the applicable automotive manufacturers.
Hurricanes Helene and Milton
In September 2024, Hurricane Helene affected our store operations in Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. With Hurricane Helene, stores in the path of
the storm closed their doors early and many remained offline even after the storm passed due to power outages. Temporary store closures and reduced
customer traffic in the days leading up to the storm and immediately afterwards resulted in fewer new and used vehicle unit sales along with lost business in
fixed operations. As previously disclosed, we estimated the impact of the storm on diluted earnings per share for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 to be
between $0.07 and $0.09 per diluted share.
In October 2024, the size and path of Hurricane Milton placed it over a larger section of our store footprint and the damage to our dealership locations was
more extensive. A higher number of stores closed for a longer period compared to Helene. Additionally, several locations experienced flooding, partial loss of
vehicle inventories and extended power outages. Other locations had varying degrees of wind and water damage preventing them from reopening in a timely
manner. As a result of Hurricane Milton, we incurred losses of $6.4 million, or $0.25 per diluted share during the quarter ended December 31, 2024.
Hurricanes Helene and Milton are not expected to have a continuing impact on the Company's operations and results in future periods.
Stop sale orders for certain Toyota, Lexus and BMW models
The stop sale orders for certain Toyota, Lexus and BMW models during the second half of 2024 impacted volumes on some of our most profitable and in-
demand vehicles. A stop sale order is a notification from a manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that prohibits the sale or lease
of a new or used vehicle due to a safety recall, defect or noncompliance. The Toyota Grand Highlander and Lexus TX models have been popular vehicles
with healthy gross profit margins. Based on the pre-stop sale trends for these models, we estimated the impact from this event resulted in approximately 2,100
fewer new units sold during the second half of 2024. As a result, we estimated the impact of the Toyota, Lexus and BMW stop sale orders to be between
$0.48 and $0.52 per diluted share during the six months ended December 31, 2024. The stop sale orders were subsequently lifted during the fourth quarter and
are not expected to have a continuing impact on the Company's operations and results in future periods.
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CDK outage
During June 2024, one of the Company’s vendors (CDK Global) experienced a cyber-incident impacting certain services provided to the Company and
many other automotive retailers, including the Company’s sales, service, inventory, customer relationship management, and accounting functions. Upon
discovery of the incident, we took immediate precautionary steps to protect our systems. Beginning on June 19, 2024, the outage affected all Asbury
locations, with the exception of our Koons stores which utilize a different dealer management system. All functions of CDK were not fully restored for us
until July 8, 2024, with other plug-ins and bolt-on applications coming back online in the weeks thereafter.
The CDK outage had a negative impact on our financial results during the quarter ended June 30, 2024 as a result of fewer new and used vehicle sales,
which also impacted our F&I business, a reduction in parts and service volumes and certain incremental expenses related to our recovery efforts. As
previously disclosed, we estimated the earnings per share for the quarter ended June 30, 2024 was negatively impacted between $0.95 and $1.15 per share,
without taking into account any potential recoveries related to the incident. The CDK Global cyber-incident is not expected to continue to impact the
Company's operations and results in future periods.
We have cybersecurity insurance coverage of $15.0 million, with a $2.5 million deductible. The timing of recovering some portion of our losses through
insurance or other recoveries is difficult to predict. The insurance recoveries we receive, if any, may not occur for several quarters or longer.
Jim Koons Acquisition
On December 11, 2023, the Company completed the acquisition of substantially all of the assets, including all real property and businesses of the Jim
Koons Dealerships ("Koons") pursuant to a Purchase and Sale Agreement with various entities that comprise the Jim Koons automotive dealerships group
(the "Koons acquisition"). The Koons acquisition comprised 20 new vehicle dealerships and six collision centers.
Financial Highlights
Highlights related to our financial condition and results of operations include the following:
•
Consolidated revenue for the year ended December 31, 2024 increased to $17.19 billion, compared to $14.80 billion for the prior year.
•
Consolidated gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2024 increased to $2.95 billion, compared to $2.76 billion for the prior year.
•
The increase in consolidated revenue and consolidated gross profit is primarily due to the effects of the Koons acquisition and growth in parts and
services gross profit. This increase was offset by lower gross profit per vehicle sold for both new and used as margins continue to shift downward
from the historic highs in recent years.
•
The effects of dealership divestitures also impacted consolidated revenue and gross profit. During the year ended December 31, 2024, we divested
five franchises (five dealership locations). These divested dealerships contributed $121.2 million of revenue during the year ended December 31,
2024.
•
Our capital allocation priorities were supported by share repurchases of approximately 830,297 million shares for $183.0 million during the year
ended December 31, 2024.
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CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
We assess the organic growth of our revenue and gross profit on a same store basis. We believe that our assessment on a same store basis represents an
important indicator of comparative financial performance and provides relevant information to assess our performance. As such, for the following discussion,
same store amounts consist of information from dealerships for identical months in each comparative period, commencing with the first full month we owned
the dealership. Additionally, amounts related to divested dealerships are excluded from each comparative period for same store reporting.
The Company's full year results for 2024 include the results of the Koons dealerships acquired in the fourth quarter of 2023. Accordingly, the significant
increases in revenue, gross profit and income from operations for 2024 compared to 2023 are largely a result of this acquisition.
The Year Ended December 31, 2024 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2023
For the Year Ended December 31,
Increase
(Decrease)
%
Change
2024
2023
(Dollars in millions, except per share data)
REVENUE:
New vehicle
$
8,849.7
$
7,630.7
$
1,219.0
16 %
Used vehicle
5,218.2
4,414.3
803.9
18 %
Parts and service
2,354.7
2,081.5
273.2
13 %
Finance and insurance, net
766.0
676.2
89.8
13 %
TOTAL REVENUE
17,188.6
14,802.7
2,385.9
16 %
GROSS PROFIT:
New vehicle
640.4
703.0
(62.6)
(9)%
Used vehicle
245.4
264.0
(18.6)
(7)%
Parts and service
1,351.2
1,150.6
200.6
17 %
Finance and insurance, net
711.6
638.2
73.4
11 %
TOTAL GROSS PROFIT
2,948.6
2,755.8
192.8
7 %
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Selling, general and administrative
1,888.5
1,617.4
271.2
17 %
Depreciation and amortization
75.0
67.7
7.3
11 %
Asset impairments
149.5
117.2
32.3
28 %
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS
835.6
953.5
(117.9)
(12)%
OTHER (INCOME) EXPENSES:
Floor plan interest expense
89.9
9.6
80.2
NM
Other interest expense, net
179.1
156.1
23.0
15 %
Gain on dealership divestitures, net
(8.6)
(13.5)
4.9
(36)%
Total other expenses, net
260.3
152.2
108.1
71 %
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
575.3
801.3
(226.0)
(28)%
Income tax expense
145.0
198.8
(53.8)
(27)%
NET INCOME
$
430.3
$
602.5
$
(172.2)
(29)%
Net income per common share—Diluted
$
21.50
$
28.74
$
(7.24)
(25)%
______________________________
NM—Not Meaningful
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For the Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
REVENUE MIX PERCENTAGES:
New vehicles
51.5 %
51.5 %
Used retail vehicles
26.8 %
27.1 %
Used vehicle wholesale
3.6 %
2.7 %
Parts and service
13.7 %
14.1 %
Finance and insurance, net
4.5 %
4.6 %
Total revenue
100.0 %
100.0 %
GROSS PROFIT MIX PERCENTAGES:
New vehicles
21.7 %
25.5 %
Used retail vehicles
7.8 %
9.0 %
Used vehicle wholesale
0.6 %
0.6 %
Parts and service
45.8 %
41.8 %
Finance and insurance, net
24.1 %
23.2 %
Total gross profit
100.0 %
100.0 %
GROSS PROFIT MARGIN
17.2 %
18.6 %
SG&A EXPENSES AS A PERCENTAGE OF GROSS PROFIT
64.0 %
58.7 %
Total revenue during 2024 increased by $2,385.9 million (16%) compared to 2023, due to a $1,219.0 million (16%) increase in new vehicle revenue, an
$803.9 million (18%) increase in used vehicle revenue, a $273.2 million (13%) increase in parts and service revenue and an $89.8 million (13%) increase in
F&I revenue.
The $192.8 million (7%) increase in gross profit during 2024 was the result of a $200.6 million (17%) increase in parts and service gross profit and a
$73.4 million (11%) increase in F&I gross profit, partially offset by a $62.6 million (9%) decrease in new vehicle gross profit and an $18.6 million (7%)
decrease in used vehicle gross profit. Our total gross profit margin decreased 146 basis points from 18.6% in 2023 to 17.2% in 2024.
Income from operations during 2024 decreased by $117.9 million (12%) compared to 2023, primarily due to a $271.2 million (17%) increase in selling,
general and administrative expenses and a $32.3 million (28%) increase in asset impairments, partially offset by a $192.8 million (7%) increase in gross
profit.
Total other expenses, net increased by $108.1 million (71%) from expenses of $152.2 million in 2023 to $260.3 million of expenses in 2024, primarily
due to an $80.2 million (NM) increase in floor plan interest expense, a $23.0 million (15%) increase in other interest expense, net and a $4.9 million (36%)
decrease in gain on dealership divestitures, net. As a result, income before income taxes decreased by $226.0 million (28%) to $575.3 million in 2024. The
$53.8 million (27%) decrease in income tax expense was primarily attributable to the 28% decrease in income before taxes, partially offset by a 40 basis point
increase in the 2024 effective tax rate. Overall, net income decreased by $172.2 million (29%) from $602.5 million in 2023 to $430.3 million in 2024.
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New Vehicle—
For the Year Ended December 31,
Increase
(Decrease)
%
Change
2024
2023
(Dollars in millions, except for per vehicle data)
As Reported:
Revenue:
Luxury
$
2,654.8
$
2,524.1
$
130.7
5 %
Import
3,623.5
3,002.6
620.9
21 %
Domestic
2,571.5
2,104.1
467.4
22 %
Total new vehicle revenue
$
8,849.7
$
7,630.7
$
1,219.0
16 %
Gross profit:
Luxury
$
258.5
$
274.3
$
(15.8)
(6)%
Import
237.3
265.8
(28.5)
(11)%
Domestic
144.6
162.9
(18.2)
(11)%
Total new vehicle gross profit
$
640.4
$
703.0
$
(62.6)
(9)%
New vehicle units:
Luxury
36,827
35,300
1,527
4 %
Import
91,243
77,740
13,503
17 %
Domestic
45,148
36,469
8,679
24 %
Total new vehicle units
173,218
149,509
23,709
16 %
Same Store:
Revenue:
Luxury
$
2,579.6
$
2,503.2
$
76.4
3 %
Import
3,014.8
2,875.1
139.7
5 %
Domestic
1,860.5
2,048.1
(187.6)
(9)%
Total new vehicle revenue
$
7,454.9
$
7,426.4
$
28.5
— %
Gross profit:
Luxury
$
253.8
$
272.2
$
(18.3)
(7)%
Import
182.2
256.4
(74.1)
(29)%
Domestic
101.5
158.9
(57.4)
(36)%
Total new vehicle gross profit
$
537.6
$
687.5
$
(149.9)
(22)%
New vehicle units:
Luxury
35,775
34,947
828
2 %
Import
76,662
74,509
2,153
3 %
Domestic
32,362
35,447
(3,085)
(9)%
Total new vehicle units
144,799
144,903
(104)
— %
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New Vehicle Metrics—
For the Year Ended December 31,
Increase
(Decrease)
%
Change
2024
2023
As Reported:
Revenue per new vehicle sold
$
51,090
$
51,038
$
51
— %
Gross profit per new vehicle sold
$
3,697
$
4,702
$
(1,005)
(21)%
New vehicle gross margin
7.2 %
9.2 %
(2.0)%
Luxury:
Gross profit per new vehicle sold
$
7,018
$
7,770
$
(752)
(10)%
New vehicle gross margin
9.7 %
10.9 %
(1.1)%
Import:
Gross profit per new vehicle sold
$
2,601
$
3,419
$
(818)
(24)%
New vehicle gross margin
6.5 %
8.9 %
(2.3)%
Domestic:
Gross profit per new vehicle sold
$
3,203
$
4,466
$
(1,263)
(28)%
New vehicle gross margin
5.6 %
7.7 %
(2.1)%
Same Store:
Revenue per new vehicle sold
$
51,484
$
51,251
$
234
— %
Gross profit per new vehicle sold
$
3,713
$
4,745
$
(1,032)
(22)%
New vehicle gross margin
7.2 %
9.3 %
(2.0)%
Luxury:
Gross profit per new vehicle sold
$
7,096
$
7,789
$
(693)
(9)%
New vehicle gross margin
9.8 %
10.9 %
(1.0)%
Import:
Gross profit per new vehicle sold
$
2,377
$
3,441
$
(1,064)
(31)%
New vehicle gross margin
6.0 %
8.9 %
(2.9)%
Domestic:
Gross profit per new vehicle sold
$
3,137
$
4,483
$
(1,347)
(30)%
New vehicle gross margin
5.5 %
7.8 %
(2.3)%
During 2024, new vehicle revenue increased by $1,219.0 million (16%) when compared to 2023, as a result of a 16% increase in new vehicle unit sales.
Same store new vehicle revenue increased by $28.5 million driven by an increase in same store revenue per new vehicle sold from $51,251 for the year ended
December 31, 2023 to $51,484 for the year ended December 31, 2024.
New vehicle gross profit decreased by $62.6 million (9%) in 2024 when compared to 2023, as a result of a 21% decrease in gross profit per new vehicle
sold partially offset by a 16% increase in unit volumes. Same store new vehicle gross profit decreased by $149.9 million (22%) in 2024 as a result of a 22%
decrease in gross profit per new vehicle sold. Same store new vehicle gross margin decreased 205 basis points to 7.2% in 2024. The decrease in our new
vehicle gross profit margin was primarily attributable to the continued easing of new vehicle inventory constraints which softened the historically high new
vehicle margins seen in recent years.
The seasonally adjusted annual rate ("SAAR") for new vehicle sales in the U.S. during the year ended December 31, 2024 was approximately 15.8
million which increased as compared to approximately 15.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2023. The increase in new vehicle sales revenue on a
same store basis for the year ended December 31, 2024 over the same period in the prior year is primarily attributable to an increase of $234 of revenue per
new vehicle sold, while new vehicle units sold remained relatively flat for the year ended December 31, 2024 as compared to the same period in the prior
year. The increase in SAAR period over period reflects higher inventory supply, including fleet, coupled with continued consumer demand for new vehicles.
However, we continue to be negatively impacted by the significant variation in new vehicle
43
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days supply among brands and models. We ended the year with approximately 49 days of supply of new vehicle inventory which reflects an increase from 43
days of supply as of December 31, 2023 but remains well below historical levels.
Used Vehicle—
For the Year Ended December 31,
Increase
(Decrease)
%
Change
2024
2023
(Dollars in millions, except for per vehicle data)
As Reported:
Revenue:
Used vehicle retail revenue
$
4,605.9
$
4,017.5
$
588.4
15 %
Used vehicle wholesale revenue
612.3
396.7
215.5
54 %
Used vehicle revenue
$
5,218.2
$
4,414.3
$
803.9
18 %
Gross profit:
Used vehicle retail gross profit
$
228.6
$
248.5
$
(19.9)
(8)%
Used vehicle wholesale gross profit
16.8
15.5
1.3
9 %
Used vehicle gross profit
$
245.4
$
264.0
$
(18.6)
(7)%
Used vehicle retail units:
Used vehicle retail units
150,698
127,507
23,191
18 %
Same Store:
Revenue:
Used vehicle retail revenue
$
3,686.6
$
3,897.7
$
(211.2)
(5)%
Used vehicle wholesale revenue
449.4
378.8
70.7
19 %
Used vehicle revenue
$
4,136.0
$
4,276.5
$
(140.5)
(3)%
Gross profit:
Used vehicle retail gross profit
$
190.5
$
240.7
$
(50.2)
(21)%
Used vehicle wholesale gross profit
10.8
15.6
(4.8)
(31)%
Used vehicle gross profit
$
201.2
$
256.2
$
(55.0)
(21)%
Used vehicle retail units:
Used vehicle retail units
119,297
123,007
(3,710)
(3)%
Used Vehicle Metrics—
For the Year Ended December 31,
Increase
(Decrease)
%
Change
2024
2023
As Reported:
Revenue per used vehicle retailed
$
30,564
$
31,508
$
(944)
(3)%
Gross profit per used vehicle retailed
$
1,517
$
1,949
$
(432)
(22)%
Used vehicle retail gross margin
5.0 %
6.2 %
(1.2)%
Same Store:
Revenue per used vehicle retailed
$
30,902
$
31,687
$
(785)
(2)%
Gross profit per used vehicle retailed
$
1,597
$
1,957
$
(360)
(18)%
Used vehicle retail gross margin
5.2 %
6.2 %
(1.0)%
Used vehicle revenue increased by $803.9 million (18%), due to a $588.4 million (15%) increase in used vehicle retail revenue and a $215.5 million
(54%) increase in used vehicle wholesale revenue. Same store used vehicle revenue decreased by $140.5 million (3%) due to a $211.2 million (5%) decrease
in used vehicle retail revenue, partially offset by a $70.7 million (19%) increase in used vehicle wholesale revenue. Used vehicle revenues and unit volume
have continued to contract during
44
Table of Contents
2024, along with margins on both an all store and same store basis. Used vehicle revenue and unit volumes have been negatively impacted by the affordability
headwinds and lack of inventory availability, especially in vehicles with lower mileage.
In 2024, total Company and same store used vehicle retail gross profit margins decreased 122 and 101 basis points, respectively, to 5.0% and 5.2%. We
attribute the decreases in used vehicle retail gross profit margin to a softening in the used vehicle market, which was at record highs in 2021 and, to a lesser
extent 2022, as a result of new vehicle inventory shortages initially caused by COVID-19 disruptions followed by supply chain issues.
We believe that our used vehicle inventory continues to be well-aligned with current consumer demand, with approximately 37 days of supply as of
December 31, 2024.
Parts and Service—
For the year ended December 31, 2024, we are presenting "Collision" as a separate line item within parts and service gross profit. In periods ending prior
to June 30, 2024, "Collision" was included within "Customer pay". We reclassified the corresponding amounts for the year ended December 31, 2023 to
conform to current year presentation.
For the Year Ended
December 31,
Increase
(Decrease)
%
Change
2024
2023
(Dollars in millions)
As Reported:
Parts and service revenue
$
2,354.7
$
2,081.5
$
273.2
13 %
Parts and service gross profit:
Customer pay
711.1
586.1
125.1
21 %
Warranty
186.7
148.3
38.4
26 %
Collision
128.6
123.5
5.1
4 %
Wholesale parts
77.5
78.7
(1.2)
(2)%
Parts and service gross profit, excluding reconditioning and preparation
1,104.0
936.6
167.4
18 %
Parts and service gross margin, excluding reconditioning and preparation
46.9%
45.0%
1.9 %
Reconditioning and preparation *
247.2
214.0
33.2
16 %
Total parts and service gross profit
$
1,351.2
$
1,150.6
$
200.6
17 %
Total parts and service gross margin
57.4%
55.3%
2.1 %
Same Store:
Parts and service revenue
$
2,064.2
$
2,028.3
$
35.9
2 %
Parts and service gross profit:
Customer pay
612.9
568.4
44.5
8 %
Warranty
166.3
145.0
21.3
15 %
Collision
114.2
122.3
(8.1)
(7)%
Wholesale parts
74.8
77.1
(2.3)
(3)%
Parts and service gross profit, excluding reconditioning and preparation
968.2
912.8
55.4
6 %
Parts and service gross margin, excluding reconditioning and preparation
46.9%
45.0%
1.9 %
Reconditioning and preparation *
220.1
210.1
10.1
5 %
Total parts and service gross profit
$
1,188.3
$
1,122.8
$
65.5
6 %
Total parts and service gross margin
57.6%
55.4%
2.2 %
* Reconditioning and preparation represents the gross profit earned by our parts and service departments for internal work performed and is included as a
reduction of Parts and service cost of sales within the accompanying consolidated statements of income upon the sale of the vehicle.
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Table of Contents
The $273.2 million (13%) increase in parts and service revenue was due to a $185.6 million (17%) increase in customer pay revenue, a $65.7 million
(24%) increase in warranty revenue, a $15.3 million (3%) increase in wholesale parts revenue and a $6.6 million (2%) increase in collision revenue. Same
store parts and service revenue increased $35.9 (2%) from $2.03 billion in 2023 to $2.06 billion in 2024. The increase in same store parts and service revenue
was due to a $42.7 million (4%) increase in customer pay revenue and a $33.0 million (12%) increase in warranty revenue, partially offset by a $15.6 million
(4%) decrease in wholesale parts revenue and a $24.2 million (9%) decrease in collision revenue.
Parts and service gross profit, excluding reconditioning and preparation, increased by $167.4 million (18%) to $1.10 billion and same store gross profit,
excluding reconditioning and preparation, increased by $55.4 million (6%) to $968.2 million. The $55.4 million increase in same store gross profit, excluding
reconditioning and preparation, is primarily due to a $44.5 million (8%) increase in customer pay gross profit and a $21.3 million (15%) increase in warranty
gross profit, partially offset by an $8.1 million (7%) decrease in collision gross profit and a $2.3 million (3%) decrease in wholesale parts gross profit. As a
result of the shortage of new vehicle inventory in recent years, coupled with inflationary headwinds, many customers have elected to keep their current
vehicles longer which has generated additional customer pay gross profit for the service departments. In addition, the increasing complexity of vehicles due to
advanced systems is increasing the frequency of recalls resulting in an increase in warranty gross profit. We continue to focus on increasing our customer pay
parts and service revenue over the long-term by improving the customer experience, providing competitive benefits to our technicians, capitalizing on our
dealership training programs and upgrading equipment.
Finance and Insurance, net—
For the Year Ended December 31,
Increase
(Decrease)
%
Change
2024
2023
(Dollars in millions, except for per vehicle data)
As Reported:
Finance and insurance, net revenue
$
766.0
$
676.2
$
89.8
13 %
Finance and insurance, net gross profit
$
711.6
$
638.2
$
73.4
11 %
Finance and insurance, net per vehicle sold
$
2,197
$
2,304
$
(107)
(5)%
Same Store:
Finance and insurance, net revenue
$
630.4
$
660.7
$
(30.3)
(5)%
Finance and insurance, net gross profit
$
576.0
$
622.8
$
(46.8)
(8)%
Finance and insurance, net per vehicle sold
$
2,181
$
2,325
$
(144)
(6)%
F&I revenue, net increased by $89.8 million (13%) in 2024 when compared to 2023 primarily as a result of a 17% increase in new and used retail unit
sales, partially offset by a $107 (5%) decrease in F&I per vehicle retailed.
On a same store basis, F&I revenue, net decreased by $30.3 million (5%) in 2024 when compared to 2023 primarily as a result of a 1% decrease in new
and used retail unit sales and a $144 (6%) decrease in F&I per vehicle retailed.
The financial results of the TCA segment, after dealership eliminations, are as follows:
For the Year Ended December 31,
Increase
(Decrease)
%
Change
2024
2023
(Dollars in millions)
Finance and insurance, revenue
$
120.6
$
138.3
$
(17.8)
(13)%
Finance and insurance, cost of sales
$
54.4
$
37.9
$
16.4
43 %
Finance and insurance, gross profit
$
66.2
$
100.4
$
(34.2)
(34)%
TCA offers a variety of F&I products, such as extended vehicle service contracts, prepaid maintenance contracts, GAP, appearance protection contracts
and lease wear-and-tear contracts. TCA's products are sold through our automobile dealerships.
Revenue generated by TCA is earned over the period of the related product contract. The method for recognizing revenue is assigned based on contract
type and expected claim patterns. Premium revenues are supplemented with investment gains or
46
Table of Contents
losses and income earned associated with the performance of TCA's investment portfolio. During the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, TCA
generated $120.6 million and $138.3 million, respectively, of revenue, consisting primarily of earned premium and $17.8 million and $15.7 million,
respectively, from the investment portfolio.
Direct expenses incurred for the acquisition of F&I contracts on which revenue has not yet been recognized have been deferred and are amortized over the
related contract period. During the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, TCA recorded $54.4 million and $37.9 million, respectively, of cost of sales
consisting primarily of claims expense paid to affiliated dealerships. Commissions expense paid by TCA to our affiliated dealerships and reflected as F&I
revenue in our Dealerships segment is eliminated upon consolidation.
As we continue to integrate TCA, we currently expect a rollout of TCA products in our Florida market during the first quarter of 2025 and the Koons
platform in the second quarter of 2025; however, no assurance can be given that the rollout will be completed within the timeframe contemplated. With the
ownership of TCA, while the combined profitability of the transaction is higher, the timing of revenue and cost recognition is deferred and amortized over the
life of the contract. We expect that this rollout will result in lower F&I revenue and gross profit over the next two to three years due to the change in how
these contracts are earned.
Selling, General and Administrative Expense—
For the Year Ended December 31,
Increase
(Decrease)
% of Gross
Profit Increase
(Decrease)
2024
% of Gross
Profit
2023
% of Gross
Profit
(Dollars in millions)
As Reported:
Personnel costs
$
1,240.3
42.1 % $
1,081.7
39.3 % $
158.6
2.8 %
Rent and related expenses
142.6
4.8 %
119.0
4.3 %
23.6
0.5 %
Advertising
61.8
2.1 %
47.5
1.7 %
14.4
0.4 %
Other
443.9
15.1 %
369.2
13.4 %
74.6
1.7 %
Selling, general and administrative expense
$
1,888.5
64.0 % $
1,617.4
58.7 % $
271.2
5.4 %
Gross profit
$
2,948.6
$
2,755.8
Same Store:
Personnel costs
$
1,037.1
41.4 % $
1,052.2
39.1 % $
(15.1)
2.3 %
Rent and related expenses
129.0
5.2 %
116.2
4.3 %
12.7
0.8 %
Advertising
43.6
1.7 %
44.0
1.6 %
(0.4)
0.1 %
Other
380.8
15.2 %
354.3
13.2 %
26.5
2.0 %
Selling, general and administrative expense
$
1,590.4
63.5 % $
1,566.7
58.3 % $
23.7
5.3 %
Gross profit
$
2,503.2
$
2,689.4
SG&A expense as a percentage of gross profit increased 536 basis points from 58.7% in 2023 to 64.0% in 2024. Same store SG&A expense as a
percentage of gross profit increased 528 basis points from 58.3% in 2023 to 63.5% in 2024. The increase in SG&A as a percentage of gross profit is primarily
the result of higher cost in personnel and other categories in SG&A expense partially offset by higher gross profits for 2024 as compared to 2023. SG&A
expense for the year ended December 31, 2024 includes $7.1 million of expense related to hail damage and $6.4 million of expense related to Hurricane
Milton. SG&A expense for the year ended December 31, 2023 includes $4.3 million of expense related to hail damage, a $3.6 million gain from the sale of
real estate and $4.1 million of professional fees related to the Koons acquisition.
Asset Impairments —
During the year ended December 31, 2024, we recognized asset impairment charges of $149.5 million as compared to $117.2 million of impairment
charges during the year ended December 31, 2023. The asset impairment charges resulted from our interim and annual franchise rights impairment tests and
the classification of certain asset disposal groups as held for sale which resulted in additional franchise rights and goodwill impairment charges.
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Table of Contents
Floor Plan Interest Expense —
Floor plan interest expense increased by $80.2 million to $89.9 million during 2024 compared to $9.6 million during 2023 due to less cash held in the
floor plan offset account during the year ended December 31, 2024 as a result of funding the Koons acquisition in December 2023.
Other Interest Expense —
Other interest expense increased $23.0 million (15%) from $156.1 million in 2023 to $179.1 million in 2024. The increase is primarily due to higher
loaner payable interest expense driven by higher loaner vehicle balances, as well as interest expense on our revolving credit agreement during the year ended
December 31, 2024.
Gain on Dealership Divestitures, Net —
During the year ended December 31, 2024, we sold 1 Lexus franchise (1 dealership location) in Wilmington, Delaware due to OEM requirements in
connection with the Koons acquisition, 1 Nissan franchise (1 dealership location) in Denver, Colorado, 1 Nissan franchise (1 dealership location) in Atlanta,
Georgia, 1 Chevrolet franchise (1 dealership location) in Atlanta, Georgia and 1 Honda franchise (1 dealership location) in Spokane, Washington. The
Company recorded a pre-tax gain totaling $8.6 million, which is presented in our accompanying consolidated statements of income as a gain on dealership
divestitures, net.
During the year ended December 31, 2023, we sold 1 franchise (1 dealership location) in Austin, Texas. The Company recorded a pre-tax gain totaling
$13.5 million.
Income Tax Expense —
The $53.8 million (27%) decrease in income tax expense was primarily the result of a $226.0 million (28%) decrease in income before income taxes. Our
effective tax rate increased 40 basis points from 24.8% in 2023 to 25.2% in 2024. The increase in our effective tax rate was primarily due to our acquisition
and divestiture activity. Stores acquired are located in relatively high tax rate states while the stores divested are located in relatively low or no tax rate states.
Refer to Note 16 "Income Taxes" for additional information regarding income taxes.
48
Table of Contents
CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
We assess the organic growth of our revenue and gross profit on a same store basis. We believe that our assessment on a same store basis represents an
important indicator of comparative financial performance and provides relevant information to assess our performance. As such, for the following discussion,
same store amounts consist of information from dealerships for identical months in each comparative period, commencing with the first full month we owned
the dealership. Additionally, amounts related to divested dealerships are excluded from each comparative period for same store reporting. During 2022, the
Company completed sixteen divestitures that contributed $683 million in revenue for the year.
The Year Ended December 31, 2023 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2022
For the Year Ended December 31,
Increase
(Decrease)
%
Change
2023
2022
(Dollars in millions, except per share data)
REVENUE:
New vehicle
$
7,630.7
$
7,365.6
$
265.1
4 %
Used vehicle
4,414.3
5,197.1
(782.8)
(15)%
Parts and service
2,081.5
2,074.2
7.3
— %
Finance and insurance, net
676.2
797.0
(120.8)
(15)%
TOTAL REVENUE
14,802.7
15,433.8
(631.2)
(4)%
GROSS PROFIT:
New vehicle
703.0
844.0
(141.0)
(17)%
Used vehicle
264.0
353.2
(89.2)
(25)%
Parts and service
1,150.6
1,152.6
(2.1)
— %
Finance and insurance, net
638.2
750.7
(112.5)
(15)%
TOTAL GROSS PROFIT
2,755.8
3,100.6
(344.8)
(11)%
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Selling, general and administrative
1,617.4
1,763.4
(146.0)
(8)%
Depreciation and amortization
67.7
69.0
(1.3)
(2)%
Asset impairments
117.2
—
117.2
NM
Other operating income, net
—
(4.4)
4.4
(100)%
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS
953.5
1,272.6
(319.1)
(25)%
OTHER (INCOME) EXPENSES:
Floor plan interest expense
9.6
8.4
1.3
15 %
Other interest expense, net
156.1
152.2
3.9
3 %
Gain on dealership divestitures, net
(13.5)
(207.1)
193.6
NM
Total other expenses (income), net
152.2
(46.5)
198.8
NM
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
801.3
1,319.1
(517.8)
(39)%
Income tax expense
198.8
321.8
(123.0)
(38)%
NET INCOME
$
602.5
$
997.3
$
(394.8)
(40)%
Net income per common share—Diluted
$
28.74
$
44.61
$
(15.87)
(36)%
______________________________
NM—Not Meaningful
49
Table of Contents
For the Year Ended December 31,
2023
2022
REVENUE MIX PERCENTAGES:
New vehicles
51.5 %
47.7 %
Used retail vehicles
27.1 %
31.3 %
Used vehicle wholesale
2.7 %
2.4 %
Parts and service
14.1 %
13.4 %
Finance and insurance, net
4.6 %
5.2 %
Total revenue
100.0 %
100.0 %
GROSS PROFIT MIX PERCENTAGES:
New vehicles
25.5 %
27.2 %
Used retail vehicles
9.0 %
11.2 %
Used vehicle wholesale
0.6 %
0.2 %
Parts and service
41.8 %
37.2 %
Finance and insurance, net
23.2 %
24.2 %
Total gross profit
100.0 %
100.0 %
GROSS PROFIT MARGIN
18.6 %
20.1 %
SG&A EXPENSES AS A PERCENTAGE OF GROSS PROFIT
58.7 %
56.9 %
Total revenue during 2023 decreased by $631.2 million (4%) compared to 2022, due to a $782.8 million (15%) decrease in used vehicle revenue, a $120.8
million (15%) decrease in F&I revenue, offset by a $265.1 million (4%) increase in new vehicle revenue and a $7.3 million increase in parts and service
revenue.
The $344.8 million (11%) decrease in gross profit during 2023 was the result of a $141.0 million (17%) decrease in new vehicle gross profit, an $89.2
million (25%) decrease in used vehicle gross profit, a $2.1 million decrease in parts and service gross profit and a $112.5 million (15%) decrease in F&I gross
profit. Our total gross profit margin decreased 147 basis points from 20.1% in 2022 to 18.6% in 2023.
Income from operations during 2023 decreased by $319.1 million (25%) compared to 2022, primarily due to a $344.8 million (11%) decrease in gross
profit and a $117.2 million increase in asset impairments, partially offset by a $146.0 million (8%) decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses.
Total other expenses (income), net increased by $198.8 million from income of $46.5 million in 2022 to $152.2 million of expenses in 2023, primarily
due to a $193.6 million decrease in gain on dealership divestitures, a $3.9 million (3%) increase in other interest expense, net and a $1.3 million (15%)
increase in floor plan interest expense. As a result, income before income taxes decreased by $517.8 million (39%) to $801.3 million in 2023. The $123.0
million (38%) decrease in income tax expense was primarily attributable to the 39% decrease in income before taxes, partially offset by a 41 basis point
increase in the 2023 effective tax rate. Overall, net income decreased by $394.8 million (40%) from $997.3 million in 2022 to $602.5 million in 2023.
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Table of Contents
New Vehicle—
For the Year Ended December 31,
Increase
(Decrease)
%
Change
2023
2022
(Dollars in millions, except for per vehicle data)
As Reported:
Revenue:
Luxury
$
2,524.1
$
2,315.7
$
208.4
9 %
Import
3,002.6
2,914.9
87.7
3 %
Domestic
2,104.1
2,135.0
(30.9)
(1)%
Total new vehicle revenue
$
7,630.7
$
7,365.6
$
265.1
4 %
Gross profit:
Luxury
$
274.3
$
293.0
$
(18.7)
(6)%
Import
265.8
338.7
(72.9)
(22)%
Domestic
162.9
212.3
(49.5)
(23)%
Total new vehicle gross profit
$
703.0
$
844.0
$
(141.0)
(17)%
New vehicle units:
Luxury
35,300
33,904
1,396
4 %
Import
77,740
78,388
(648)
(1)%
Domestic
36,469
38,887
(2,418)
(6)%
Total new vehicle units
149,509
151,179
(1,670)
(1)%
Same Store:
Revenue:
Luxury
$
2,503.2
$
2,210.4
$
292.8
13 %
Import
2,967.3
2,744.2
223.1
8 %
Domestic
2,059.0
2,074.3
(15.4)
(1)%
Total new vehicle revenue
$
7,529.5
$
7,028.9
$
500.6
7 %
Gross profit:
Luxury
$
272.0
$
281.6
$
(9.6)
(3)%
Import
262.0
319.5
(57.5)
(18)%
Domestic
159.6
206.5
(46.9)
(23)%
Total new vehicle gross profit
$
693.6
$
807.6
$
(114.0)
(14)%
New vehicle units:
Luxury
34,947
32,154
2,793
9 %
Import
76,896
73,845
3,051
4 %
Domestic
35,700
37,699
(1,999)
(5)%
Total new vehicle units
147,543
143,698
3,845
3 %
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New Vehicle Metrics—
For the Year Ended December 31,
Increase
(Decrease)
%
Change
2023
2022
As Reported:
Revenue per new vehicle sold
$
51,038
$
48,721
$
2,318
5 %
Gross profit per new vehicle sold
$
4,702
$
5,583
$
(881)
(16)%
New vehicle gross margin
9.2 %
11.5 %
(2.2)%
Luxury:
Gross profit per new vehicle sold
$
7,770
$
8,642
$
(871)
(10)%
New vehicle gross margin
10.9 %
12.7 %
(1.8)%
Import:
Gross profit per new vehicle sold
$
3,419
$
4,320
$
(901)
(21)%
New vehicle gross margin
8.9 %
11.6 %
(2.8)%
Domestic:
Gross profit per new vehicle sold
$
4,466
$
5,460
$
(994)
(18)%
New vehicle gross margin
7.7 %
9.9 %
(2.2)%
Same Store:
Revenue per new vehicle sold
$
51,033
$
48,915
$
2,118
4 %
Gross profit per new vehicle sold
$
4,701
$
5,620
$
(919)
(16)%
New vehicle gross margin
9.2 %
11.5 %
(2.3)%
Luxury:
Gross profit per new vehicle sold
$
7,783
$
8,758
$
(975)
(11)%
New vehicle gross margin
10.9 %
12.7 %
(1.9)%
Import:
Gross profit per new vehicle sold
$
3,407
$
4,326
$
(919)
(21)%
New vehicle gross margin
8.8 %
11.6 %
(2.8)%
Domestic:
Gross profit per new vehicle sold
$
4,472
$
5,479
$
(1,007)
(18)%
New vehicle gross margin
7.8 %
10.0 %
(2.2)%
During 2023, new vehicle revenue increased by $265.1 million (4%) when compared to 2022, as a result of a 5% increase in revenue per new vehicle sold
partially offset by a 1% decrease in new vehicle unit sales. Same store new vehicle revenue increased by $500.6 million (7%) as a result of a 4% increase in
revenue per new vehicle sold and a 3% increase in new vehicle units sold.
New vehicle gross profit decreased by $141.0 million (17%) in 2023 when compared to 2022, as a result of a 16% decrease in gross profit per new
vehicle sold and a 1% decrease in unit volumes. Same store new vehicle gross profit decreased by $114.0 million (14%) in 2023, as a result of a 16% decrease
in gross profit per new vehicle sold partially offset by a 3% increase in unit volumes. Same store new vehicle gross margin decreased 228 basis points to 9.2%
in 2023. The decrease in our new vehicle gross profit margin was primarily attributable to the easing of new vehicle inventory constraints which softened the
historically high new vehicle margins seen in recent years.
The seasonally adjusted annual rate ("SAAR") for new vehicle sales in the U.S. during the year ended December 31, 2023 was approximately 15.4 million
which increased as compared to approximately 13.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2022. The increase in new vehicle sales revenue on a same
store basis for the year ended December 31, 2023 over the same period in the prior year is primarily attributable to an increase of $2,118 of revenue per new
vehicle sold and an increase of 3,845 in new vehicle units sold. The increase in SAAR period over period reflects higher inventory supply, including fleet,
coupled with continued consumer demand for new vehicles. However, we continue to be negatively impacted by the significant variation in new vehicle days
supply among brands and models. We ended the year with approximately 43 days of supply of
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new vehicle inventory which reflects an increase from 26 days of supply as of December 31, 2022 but remains well below historical levels.
Used Vehicle—
For the Year Ended December 31,
Increase
(Decrease)
%
Change
2023
2022
(Dollars in millions, except for per vehicle data)
As Reported:
Revenue:
Used vehicle retail revenue
$
4,017.5
$
4,828.8
$
(811.3)
(17)%
Used vehicle wholesale revenue
396.7
368.3
28.5
8 %
Used vehicle revenue
$
4,414.3
$
5,197.1
$
(782.8)
(15)%
Gross profit:
Used vehicle retail gross profit
$
248.5
$
347.1
$
(98.5)
(28)%
Used vehicle wholesale gross profit
15.5
6.2
9.3
151 %
Used vehicle gross profit
$
264.0
$
353.2
$
(89.2)
(25)%
Used vehicle retail units:
Used vehicle retail units
127,507
151,464
(23,957)
(16)%
Same Store:
Revenue:
Used vehicle retail revenue
$
3,949.1
$
4,503.7
$
(554.6)
(12)%
Used vehicle wholesale revenue
389.7
348.9
40.8
12 %
Used vehicle revenue
$
4,338.8
$
4,852.6
$
(513.7)
(11)%
Gross profit:
Used vehicle retail gross profit
$
243.7
$
323.7
$
(80.0)
(25)%
Used vehicle wholesale gross profit
15.3
7.1
8.3
117 %
Used vehicle gross profit
$
259.1
$
330.8
$
(71.7)
(22)%
Used vehicle retail units:
Used vehicle retail units
125,124
139,446
(14,322)
(10)%
Used Vehicle Metrics—
For the Year Ended December 31,
Increase
(Decrease)
%
Change
2023
2022
As Reported:
Revenue per used vehicle retailed
$
31,508
$
31,881
$
(372)
(1)%
Gross profit per used vehicle retailed
$
1,949
$
2,291
$
(342)
(15)%
Used vehicle retail gross margin
6.2 %
7.2 %
(1.0)%
Same Store:
Revenue per used vehicle retailed
$
31,562
$
32,297
$
(735)
(2)%
Gross profit per used vehicle retailed
$
1,948
$
2,321
$
(374)
(16)%
Used vehicle retail gross margin
6.2 %
7.2 %
(1.0)%
Used vehicle revenue decreased by $782.8 million (15%), due to an $811.3 million (17%) decrease in used vehicle retail revenue, partially offset by a
$28.5 million (8%) increase in used vehicle wholesale revenue. Same store used vehicle revenue decreased by $513.7 million (11%) due to a $554.6 million
(12%) decrease in used vehicle retail revenue, partially offset by a $40.8 million (12%) increase in used vehicle wholesale revenue. Used vehicle revenues
and unit volume have continued to contract during 2023, along with margins on both an all store and same store basis. Used vehicle revenue and unit volumes
have
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been negatively impacted by the affordability headwinds and lack of inventory availability, especially in vehicles with lower mileage.
In 2023, total Company and same store used vehicle retail gross profit margins decreased 100 and 102 basis points, respectively, to both 6.2%. We
attribute the decreases in used vehicle retail gross profit margin to a softening in the used vehicle market, which was at record highs in 2021 and, to a lesser
extent 2022, as a result of new vehicle inventory shortages initially caused by COVID-19 disruptions followed by supply chain issues.
We believe that our used vehicle inventory continues to be well-aligned with current consumer demand, with approximately 32 days of supply as of
December 31, 2023. This level of days of supply is in line with our historic targeted range of 30 to 35 days.
Parts and Service—
For the Year Ended
December 31,
Increase
(Decrease)
%
Change
2023
2022
(Dollars in millions)
As Reported:
Parts and service revenue
$
2,081.5
$
2,074.2
$
7.3
— %
Parts and service gross profit:
Customer pay
709.5
709.7
(0.1)
— %
Warranty
148.4
142.4
5.9
4 %
Wholesale parts
78.7
79.4
(0.7)
(1)%
Parts and service gross profit, excluding reconditioning and preparation
936.6
931.5
5.1
1 %
Parts and service gross margin, excluding reconditioning and preparation
45.0%
44.9%
0.1 %
Reconditioning and preparation *
214.0
221.1
(7.1)
(3)%
Total parts and service gross profit
$
1,150.6
$
1,152.6
$
(2.1)
— %
Total parts and service gross margin
55.3%
55.6%
(0.3)%
Same Store:
Parts and service revenue
$
2,063.2
$
1,960.5
$
102.6
5 %
Parts and service gross profit:
Customer pay
702.3
668.4
33.8
5 %
Warranty
147.5
136.2
11.3
8 %
Wholesale parts
78.3
75.9
2.5
3 %
Parts and service gross profit, excluding reconditioning and preparation
928.1
880.5
47.6
5 %
Parts and service gross margin, excluding reconditioning and preparation
45.0%
44.9%
0.1 %
Reconditioning and preparation *
212.7
207.3
5.4
3 %
Total parts and service gross profit
$
1,140.7
$
1,087.8
$
52.9
5 %
Total parts and service gross margin
55.3%
55.5%
(0.2)%
* Reconditioning and preparation represents the gross profit earned by our parts and service departments for internal work performed and is included as a
reduction of Parts and service cost of sales within the accompanying consolidated statements of income upon the sale of the vehicle.
The $7.3 million increase in parts and service revenue was due to a $6.3 million increase in customer pay revenue and a $10.2 million (4%) increase in
warranty revenue, partially offset by a $9.2 million (2%) decrease in wholesale parts revenue. Same store parts and service revenue increased $102.6 million
(5%) from $1.96 billion in 2022 to $2.06 billion in 2023. The increase in same store parts and service revenue was due to a $72.1 million (6%) increase in
customer pay revenue, a $19.8 million (8%) increase in warranty revenue and a $10.7 million (2%) increase in wholesale parts revenue.
Parts and service gross profit, excluding reconditioning and preparation, increased by $5.1 million (1%) to $936.6 million and same store gross profit,
excluding reconditioning and preparation, increased by $47.6 million (5%) to $928.1 million. The
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$47.6 million increase in same store gross profit, excluding reconditioning and preparation, is primarily due to a $33.8 million (5%) increase in customer pay
gross profit, an $11.3 million (8%) increase in warranty gross profit and a $2.5 million (3%) increase in wholesale parts gross profit. As a result of the
shortage of new vehicle inventory, many customers have elected to keep their current vehicles longer which has generated additional customer pay and
wholesale parts gross profit for the parts and service departments. We continue to focus on increasing our customer pay parts and service revenue over the
long-term by improving the customer experience, providing competitive benefits to our technicians, capitalizing on our dealership training programs and
upgrading equipment.
Finance and Insurance, net—
For the Year Ended December 31,
Increase
(Decrease)
%
Change
2023
2022
(Dollars in millions, except for per vehicle data)
As Reported:
Finance and insurance, net revenue
$
676.2
$
797.0
$
(120.8)
(15)%
Finance and insurance, net gross profit
$
638.2
$
750.7
$
(112.5)
(15)%
Finance and insurance, net per vehicle sold
$
2,304
$
2,480
$
(177)
(7)%
Same Store:
Finance and insurance, net revenue
$
667.3
$
761.7
$
(94.4)
(12)%
Finance and insurance, net gross profit
$
629.4
$
715.5
$
(86.1)
(12)%
Finance and insurance, net per vehicle sold
$
2,308
$
2,527
$
(219)
(9)%
F&I revenue, net decreased by $120.8 million (15%) in 2023 when compared to 2022 primarily as a result of an 8% decrease in new and used retail unit
sales and an 7% decrease in F&I per vehicle retailed.
On a same store basis F&I revenue, net decreased by $94.4 million (12%) in 2023 when compared to 2022 primarily as a result of a 4% decrease in new
and used retail unit sales and a 9% decrease in F&I per vehicle retailed.
The financial results of the TCA segment, after dealership eliminations, are as follows:
For the Year Ended December 31,
Increase
(Decrease)
%
Change
2023
2022
(Dollars in millions)
Finance and insurance, revenue
$
138.3
$
126.0
$
12.3
10 %
Finance and insurance, cost of sales
$
37.9
$
46.3
$
(8.4)
(18)%
Finance and insurance, gross profit
$
100.4
$
79.8
$
20.7
26 %
TCA offers a variety of F&I products, such as extended vehicle service contracts, prepaid maintenance contracts, GAP, appearance protection contracts
and lease wear-and-tear contracts. TCA's products are sold through our automobile dealerships.
Revenue generated by TCA is earned over the period of the related product contract. The method for recognizing revenue is assigned based on contract
type and expected claim patterns. Premium revenues are supplemented with investment gains or losses and income earned associated with the performance of
TCA's investment portfolio. During the year ended December 31, 2023, TCA generated $138.3 million of revenue, consisting primarily of earned premium
and $15.7 million from the investment portfolio.
Direct expenses incurred for the acquisition of F&I contracts on which revenue has not yet been recognized have been deferred and are amortized over the
related contract period. During the year ended December 31, 2023, TCA recorded $37.9 million of cost of sales consisting primarily of claims expense, after
the elimination of claims paid to affiliated dealerships. Commissions expense paid by TCA to our affiliated dealerships and reflected as F&I revenue in our
Dealerships segment is eliminated in the TCA segment upon consolidation.
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Selling, General and Administrative Expense—
For the Year Ended December 31,
Increase
(Decrease)
% of Gross
Profit Increase
(Decrease)
2023
% of Gross
Profit
2022
% of Gross
Profit
(Dollars in millions)
As Reported:
Personnel costs
$
1,081.7
39.3 % $
1,247.4
40.2 % $
(165.7)
(1.0)%
Rent and related expenses
119.0
4.3 %
121.7
3.9 %
(2.7)
0.4 %
Advertising
47.5
1.7 %
50.1
1.6 %
(2.6)
0.1 %
Other
369.2
13.4 %
344.2
11.1 %
25.0
2.3 %
Selling, general and administrative expense
$
1,617.4
58.7 % $
1,763.4
56.9 % $
(146.0)
1.8 %
Gross profit
$
2,755.8
$
3,100.6
Same Store:
Personnel costs
$
1,068.5
39.2 % $
1,181.8
40.2 % $
(113.3)
(0.9)%
Rent and related expenses
117.9
4.3 %
116.3
4.0 %
1.6
0.4 %
Advertising
45.6
1.7 %
43.8
1.5 %
1.8
0.2 %
Other
361.6
13.3 %
329.0
11.2 %
32.6
2.1 %
Selling, general and administrative expense
$
1,593.6
58.5 % $
1,670.9
56.8 % $
(77.3)
1.7 %
Gross profit
$
2,722.8
$
2,941.7
SG&A expense as a percentage of gross profit increased 182 basis points from 56.9% in 2022 to 58.7% in 2023. Same store SG&A expense as a
percentage of gross profit increased 173 basis points from 56.8% in 2022 to 58.5% in 2023. The increase in SG&A as a percentage of gross profit is primarily
the result of lower gross profits for 2023 when compared to 2022. SG&A expense for the year ended December 31, 2023 includes $4.3 million of expense
related to hail damage, a $3.6 million gain from the sale of real estate and $4.1 million of professional fees related to the Koons acquisition. SG&A expense
for the year ended December 31, 2022 includes $2.7 million of professional fees related to acquisition due diligence.
Asset Impairments —
During the year ended December 31, 2023, we recognized asset impairment charges of $117.2 million as compared to no impairment charges during the
year ended December 31, 2022. The asset impairment charges resulted from our annual franchise rights impairment tests and the classification of certain asset
disposal groups as held for sale which resulted in additional franchise rights and goodwill impairment charges.
Floor Plan Interest Expense —
Floor plan interest expense increased by $1.3 million (15%) to $9.6 million during 2023 compared to $8.4 million during 2022 due to less cash held in the
floor plan offset account in December 2023 as a result of funding the Koons acquisition.
Other Interest Expense —
Other interest expense increased $3.9 million (3%) from $152.2 million in 2022 to $156.1 million in 2023. The increase is primarily due to higher loaner
payable interest expense driven by higher loaner vehicle balances, as well as interest expense on our revolving credit agreement in December 2023.
Gain on Dealership Divestitures —
During the year ended December 31, 2023, we sold one franchise (one dealership location) in Austin, Texas. The Company recorded a pre-tax gain
totaling $13.5 million.
During the year ended December 31, 2022, we sold one franchise (one dealership location) in St. Louis, Missouri, three franchises (three dealership
locations) and one collision center in Colorado, two franchises (two dealership locations) in Spokane, Washington, one franchise (one dealership location) in
Albuquerque, New Mexico and 11 franchises (nine dealership locations) and two collision centers in North Carolina. The Company recorded a net pre-tax
gain totaling $207.1 million.
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Income Tax Expense —
The $123.0 million (38%) decrease in income tax expense was primarily the result of a $517.8 million (39%) decrease in income before income taxes.
Our effective tax rate increased 41 basis points from 24.4% in 2022 to 24.8% in 2023. The increase in our effective tax rate was primarily due to lower
income before taxes and our acquisition and divestiture activity. Stores acquired are located in relatively high tax rate states while the stores divested are
located in relatively low or no tax rate states.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
As of December 31, 2024, we had total available liquidity of $827.7 million, which consisted of cash and cash equivalents of $38.9 million (excluding
$30.5 million held by TCA), available funds in our floor plan offset accounts of $116.7 million million and $486.0 million of availability under our revolving
credit facility and $186.1 million of availability under our used vehicle floor plan facility. The borrowing capacities under our revolving credit facility and our
used vehicle revolving floor plan facility are limited by borrowing base calculations and, from time to time, may be further limited by our required
compliance with certain financial covenants. For more information on our financial covenants, see "Covenants and Defaults" and "Share Repurchases and
Dividend Restrictions" below.
We continually evaluate our liquidity and capital resources based upon (i) our cash and cash equivalents on hand, (ii) the funds that we expect to generate
through future operations, (iii) current and expected borrowing availability under our 2023 Senior Credit Facility (discussed further below), (iv) amounts in
our new vehicle floor plan notes payable offset accounts, and (v) the potential impact of our capital allocation strategy and any contemplated or pending
future transactions, including, but not limited to, financings, acquisitions, dispositions, equity and/or debt repurchases, dividends, or other capital
expenditures. We believe we will have sufficient liquidity to meet our debt service and working capital requirements; commitments and contingencies; debt
repayment, maturity and repurchase obligations; acquisitions; capital expenditures; and any operating requirements for at least the next twelve months and the
foreseeable future.
Material Indebtedness
We currently are party to the following material credit facilities and agreements and have the following material indebtedness outstanding. For a more
detailed description of the material terms of these agreements and facilities, and this indebtedness, see Note 14 "Debt" included in the notes to consolidated
financial statements.
•
2023 Senior Credit Facility—On October 20, 2023, the Company and certain of its subsidiaries entered into a fourth amended and restated credit
agreement with Bank of America, N.A. ("Bank of America"), as administrative agent, and the other lenders party thereto (the "2023 Senior Credit
Facility"). The 2023 Senior Credit Facility amended and restated the Company’s pre-existing third amended and restated credit agreement, dated as
of September 25, 2019, among the Company, certain of its subsidiaries, Bank of America, as administrative agent, and the other lenders party
thereto. As amended, the 2023 Senior Credit Agreement provides for the following:
Revolving Credit Facility—A $500.0 million Revolving Credit Facility for, among other things, acquisitions, working capital and capital
expenditures, including a $50.0 million sub-limit for letters of credit. As of December 31, 2024, we had $14.0 million in outstanding letters
of credit, resulting in $486.0 million of borrowing availability. We began the year with no amounts drawn on our revolving credit facility.
During the year ended December 31, 2024, we had borrowings of $1.21 billion and $1.21 billion in repayments, resulting in no outstanding
borrowings as of December 31, 2024.
New Vehicle Floor Plan Facility—A $1.93 billion New Vehicle Floor Plan Facility which allows us to transfer cash as an offset to floor plan
notes payable. These transfers reduce the amount of outstanding new vehicle floor plan notes payable that would otherwise accrue interest,
while retaining the ability to transfer amounts from the offset account into our operating cash accounts within one to two days. As a result of
the use of this floor plan offset account, we experienced a reduction in floor plan interest expense on our consolidated statements of income.
As of December 31, 2024, we had $1.42 billion outstanding under the New Vehicle Floor Plan Facility, which includes $56.7 million
classified in loaner vehicles notes payable which is included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets.
As of December 31, 2024, we held $115.7 million in the floor plan notes payable offset account.
Used Vehicle Floor Plan Facility—A $375.0 million Used Vehicle Floor Plan Facility to finance the acquisition of used vehicle inventory
and for working capital and capital expenditures, as well as to refinance used vehicles. We began the year with $307.1 million amounts
drawn on our Used Vehicle Floor Plan Facility. During the year ended December 31, 2024, we had additional borrowings of $376.4 million
and $582.8 million
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in repayments resulting in $100.7 million outstanding borrowings as of December 31, 2024. We had $186.1 million borrowing capacity
under the Used Vehicle Floor Plan Facility based on our borrowing base calculation as of December 31, 2024.
Subject to compliance with certain conditions, the 2023 Senior Credit Agreement provides that we have the ability, at our option and subject to
the receipt of additional commitments from existing or new lenders, to increase the size of the facilities by up to $750.0 million in the aggregate
without lender consent.
At our option, we have the ability to re-designate a portion of our availability under the Revolving Credit Facility to the New Vehicle Floor Plan
Facility or the Used Vehicle Floor Plan Facility. The maximum amount we are allowed to re-designate is determined based on aggregate
commitments under the Revolving Credit Facility, less $50.0 million. In addition, we are able to re-designate any amounts moved to the New Vehicle
Floor Plan Facility or the Used Vehicle Floor Plan Facility back to the Revolving Credit Facility.
In addition to the payment of interest on borrowings outstanding under the 2023 Senior Credit Facility, we are required to pay a quarterly
commitment fee on total unused commitments thereunder. The fee for unused commitments under the Revolving Credit Facility is between 0.15%
and 0.40% per year, based on the Company's total lease adjusted leverage ratio, and the fee for unused commitments under the New Vehicle Facility
Floor Plan and the Used Vehicle Floor Plan Facility is 0.15% per year.
•
Manufacturer affiliated new vehicle floor plan and other financing facilities—We have a floor plan facility with the Ford Motor Credit
Company ("Ford Credit") to purchase new Ford and Lincoln vehicle inventory. Our floor plan facility with Ford Credit was amended in July 2020
and can be terminated by either the Company or Ford Credit with a 30-day notice period. We have also established a floor plan offset account with
Ford Credit, which operates in a similar manner to our floor plan offset account with Bank of America. As of December 31, 2024, we had $349.9
million, which is net of $1.0 million in our floor plan offset account, outstanding under our floor plan facility. Neither our floor plan facility with
Ford Credit nor our facilities for loaner vehicles have stated borrowing limitations.
•
2029 and 2032 Senior Notes—On November 19, 2021, the Company completed its offering of $800.0 million aggregate principal amount of
4.625% senior notes due 2029 (the "2029 Senior Notes") and $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of 5.000% senior notes due 2032 (the "2032
Senior Notes"). The 2029 Senior Notes and 2032 Senior Notes mature on November 15, 2029 and February 15, 2032, respectively. Interest is
payable semiannually, on November 15 and May 15 of each year. The 2029 Senior Notes and the 2032 Senior Notes were offered, together with
additional borrowings and cash on hand, to (i) fund the LHM Acquisition and (ii) pay related fees and expenses.
The 2029 Notes and 2032 Notes have been fully and unconditionally guaranteed, on a joint and several basis, by substantially all of our
subsidiaries other than the TCA Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries. In addition, the notes are subject to customary covenants, events of default and optional
redemption revisions. The 2029 Senior Notes and the 2032 Senior Notes are not required to be registered under the Securities Act of 1933.
•
2028 and 2030 Senior Notes—On February 19, 2020, the Company completed its offering of senior unsecured notes, consisting of $525.0 million
aggregate principal amount of the Existing 2028 Notes and $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of the Existing 2030 Notes. The 2028 Notes
and 2030 Notes mature on March 1, 2028 and March 1, 2030, respectively. Interest is payable semiannually, on March 1 and September 1 of each
year. The 2028 Notes and the 2030 Notes were offered, together with additional borrowings and cash on hand, to (i) fund the acquisition of
substantially all of the assets of Park Place, (ii) redeem all of our outstanding $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of 6.0% Senior
Subordinated Notes due 2024 (the "6.0% Notes") and (iii) pay fees and expenses.
On March 24, 2020, the Company redeemed $245.0 million aggregate principal million of the 2028 Notes and $280.0 million aggregate principal
amount of the 2030 Notes pursuant to a special mandatory redemption.
In September 2020, the Company completed an add-on issuance of $250.0 million aggregate principal amount of additional senior notes
consisting of $125.0 million aggregate principal amount of additional 2028 Notes at a price of 101.00% of par, plus accrued interest from September
1, 2020, and $125.0 million aggregate principal amount of additional 2030 Notes (together with the additional 2028 Notes, the "Additional Notes")
at a price of 101.75% of par, plus accrued interest from September 1, 2020 (the "September 2020 Offering"). After deducting the initial purchasers'
discounts of $2.8 million, we received net proceeds of approximately $250.6 million from the September 2020 Offering. The $3.5 million premium
paid by the initial purchasers of the Additional Notes was recorded as a component of long-term debt on our consolidated balance sheets and is being
amortized as a reduction of interest expense over the remaining term of the Notes. The proceeds of the September 2020 Offering were used to
redeem certain seller notes issued in connection with the acquisition of Park Place.
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The 2028 Notes and the 2030 Notes are guaranteed, jointly and severally, on a senior unsecured basis, by each of our existing and future
restricted subsidiaries, other than the TCA Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries. In addition, the Notes are subject to customary covenants, events of default
and optional redemption revisions. The 2028 Notes and the 2030 Notes were required to be registered under the Securities Act of 1933 within 270
days of the closing date for the offering of each respective series. The Company completed the registration of the 2028 Notes and 2030 Notes in
October 2020.
•
Mortgage Financings—We have multiple mortgage agreements with finance companies affiliated with our vehicle manufacturers ("captive
mortgages"). As of December 31, 2024 we had total mortgage notes payable outstanding of $29.6 million which are collateralized by the associated
real estate.
•
2021 Real Estate Facility—On December 17, 2021, we entered into a real estate term loan credit agreement with Bank of America, N.A., as
administrative agent and the other lenders party thereto, which provided for term loans in an aggregate amount equal to $689.7 million (the "2021
Real Estate Facility"). As of December 31, 2024, we had $579.9 million of outstanding borrowings under the 2021 Real Estate Facility. There is no
further borrowing availability under the 2021 Real Estate Facility.
•
2021 BofA Real Estate Facility—On May 10, 2021, we entered into a real estate term loan credit agreement (the "2021 BofA Real Estate Credit
Agreement"), by and among the Company and certain of its subsidiaries, Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent and the various financial
institutions party thereto, as lenders, which provided for term loans in an aggregate amount equal to $184.4 million, subject to customary terms and
conditions (the "2021 BofA Real Estate Facility"). As of December 31, 2024, we had $158.6 million of outstanding borrowings under the 2021 BofA
Real Estate Facility. There is no further borrowing availability under the 2021 BofA Real Estate Credit Agreement. On May 25, 2022, certain of our
subsidiaries entered into amendments to our 2021 BofA Real Estate Facility to replace the benchmark reference rate of LIBOR to SOFR, effective
June 1, 2022. See Note 14 "Debt" for further details.
•
2018 BofA Real Estate Facility—On November 13, 2018, we entered into a real estate term loan credit agreement (as amended, restated or
supplemented from time to time, the "2018 BofA Real Estate Credit Agreement") with Bank of America, as lender, providing for term loans in an
aggregate amount not to exceed $128.1 million, subject to customary terms and conditions (the "2018 BofA Real Estate Facility"). Our right to make
draws under the 2018 BofA Real Estate Facility terminated on November 13, 2019. All of the real property financed by an operating dealership
subsidiary of the Company under the 2018 BofA Real Estate Facility is collateralized by first priority liens, subject to certain permitted exceptions.
As of December 31, 2024, we had $37.9 million, of outstanding borrowings under the 2018 BofA Real Estate Facility. There is no further borrowing
availability under the 2018 BofA Real Estate Facility. On May 25, 2022, certain of our subsidiaries entered into an amendment to the 2018 BofA
Real Estate Credit Agreement to replace the benchmark reference rate of LIBOR to SOFR, effective June 1, 2022. See Note 14 "Debt" for further
details.
•
2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility—On November 16, 2018, certain of our subsidiaries entered into a master loan agreement (the "2018
Wells Fargo Master Loan Agreement") with Wells Fargo as lender, which provides for term loans to certain of our subsidiaries that are borrowers
under the 2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan Agreement in an aggregate amount not to exceed $100.0 million (the "2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan
Facility"). Our right to make draws under the 2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility terminated on June 30, 2020. On November 16, 2018 and June
26, 2020, we borrowed an aggregate amount of $25.0 million and $69.4 million, respectively, under the 2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility, the
proceeds of which were used for general corporate purposes. As of December 31, 2024, we had $62.2 million, outstanding borrowings under the
2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility. There is no further borrowing availability under the 2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility. On and with
effect from June 1, 2022, certain of our subsidiaries entered into an amendment to our 2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan Agreement to replace the
benchmark reference rate of LIBOR to SOFR. See Note 14 "Debt" for further details.
•
2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility—On February 3, 2015, certain of our subsidiaries entered into an amended and restated master loan
agreement (the "2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Agreement") with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association ("Wells Fargo"), as lender, which
provides for term loans to certain of our subsidiaries that are borrowers under the 2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Agreement in an aggregate amount
not to exceed $100.0 million (the "2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility"). Borrowings under the 2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility are
guaranteed by us and are collateralized by the real property financed under the 2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility. As of December 31, 2024, the
outstanding balance under this agreement was $32.0 million. There is no further borrowing availability under the 2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan
Facility. On and with effect from June 1, 2022, certain
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of our subsidiaries entered into an amendment to our 2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Agreement to replace the benchmark reference rate of LIBOR
to SOFR. See Note 14 "Debt" for further details.
•
2013 BofA Real Estate Facility—On September 26, 2013, we entered into a real estate term loan credit agreement (the "2013 BofA Real Estate
Credit Agreement") with Bank of America, N.A., as lender, providing for term loans in an aggregate amount not to exceed $75.0 million, subject to
customary terms and conditions (the "2013 BofA Real Estate Facility"). In June 2023, the Company prepaid the aggregate principal amounts
remaining under the 2013 BofA Real Estate Facility for an aggregate amount of approximately $23.9 million with cash on hand.
Covenants and Defaults
We are subject to a number of customary covenants in our various debt and lease agreements, including those described below. We were in compliance
with all of our covenants as of December 31, 2024. Failure to comply with any of our debt covenants would constitute a default under the relevant debt
agreements, which would entitle the lenders under such agreements to terminate our ability to borrow under the relevant agreements and accelerate our
obligations to repay outstanding borrowings, if any, unless compliance with the covenants were waived. In many cases, defaults under one of our agreements
could trigger cross-default provisions in our other agreements. If we are unable to remain in compliance with our financial or other covenants, we would be
required to seek waivers or modifications of our covenants from our lenders, or we would need to raise debt and/or equity financing or sell assets to generate
proceeds sufficient to repay such debt. We cannot give any assurance that we would be able to successfully take any of these actions on terms, or at times, that
may be necessary or desirable.
The representations and covenants contained in the 2021 Real Estate Facility, 2021 BofA Real Estate Credit Agreement, 2018 BofA Real Estate Credit
Agreement, 2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan Agreement, 2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Agreement, and the related documents are customary for financing
transactions of this nature, including, among others, requirements to comply with a minimum consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio and maximum
consolidated total lease adjusted leverage ratio, in each case, as applicable. In addition, certain other covenants could restrict our ability to incur additional
debt, pay dividends or acquire or dispose of assets. Each of these agreements provides for events of default that are customary for financing transactions of
this nature, including cross-defaults to other material indebtedness. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, we could be required by the applicable
agreement to immediately repay all amounts outstanding thereunder.
The representations and covenants contained in the agreement governing the 2023 Senior Credit Facility are customary for financing transactions of this
nature including, among others, a requirement to comply with a minimum consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio and maximum consolidated total lease
adjusted leverage ratio, in each case as set out in the agreement governing the 2023 Senior Credit Facility. In addition, certain other covenants could restrict
the Company's ability to incur additional debt, pay dividends or acquire or dispose of assets. The agreement governing the 2023 Senior Credit Facility also
provides for events of default that are customary for financing transactions of this nature, including cross-defaults to other material indebtedness. In certain
instances, an event of default under either the Revolving Credit Facility or the Used Vehicle Floor Plan Facility could be, or result in, an event of default
under the New Vehicle Floor Plan Facility, and vice versa. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, the Company could be required to immediately repay
all amounts outstanding under the applicable facility.
The 2023 Senior Credit Facility and the Indentures currently allow for restricted payments without limit so long as our Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio
(as defined in the 2023 Senior Credit Facility and the Indentures) is no greater than 3.0 to 1.0 after giving effect to such proposed restricted payments.
Restricted payments generally include items such as dividends, share repurchases, unscheduled repayments of subordinated debt, or purchases of certain
investments. Subject to our continued compliance with a consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio and a maximum consolidated total lease adjusted leverage
ratio, in each case as set out in the Indentures, restricted payments capacity additions (or subtractions if negative) equal to a base level plus the cumulative
amount of (i) 50% of our net income (as defined in the 2023 Senior Credit Facility) plus (ii) 100% of any cash proceeds we receive from the sale of equity
interests minus (iii) the dollar amount of share purchases made and dividends paid during the defined measurement periods, subject to certain exceptions. In
the event that our Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio does (or would) exceed 3.0 to 1.0, the 2023 Senior Credit Facility and the Indentures would then also
allow for restricted payments under mutually exclusive parameters, subject to certain exclusions. The Company may otherwise make restricted payments only
up to the aforementioned cumulative capacity. Our restricted payment capacity balance as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 was $1.22 billion and
$1.18 billion, respectively.
Share Repurchases and Dividend Restrictions
Our ability to repurchase shares or pay dividends on our common stock is subject to our compliance with the covenants and restrictions described in
"Covenants and Defaults" above.
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During the year ended December 31, 2024, we repurchased 830,297 shares of our common stock under our repurchase program for a total of $183.0
million and an additional 46,941 shares of our common stock for $10.2 million from employees in connection with a net share settlement feature of employee
equity-based awards.
As of December 31, 2024, we had remaining authorization to repurchase up to an additional $275.9 million of our common stock. Any repurchases will be
subject to applicable limitations in our debt or other financing agreements that may be in existence from time to time.
On May 15, 2024, the Company announced that its Board of Directors approved an increase of $256.2 million in the Company's common share
repurchase authorization to $400 million (the "New Share Repurchase Authorization"), for the repurchase of our common stock in open market transactions
or privately negotiated transactions or in other manners as permitted by federal securities laws and other legal and contractual requirements. The extent that
the Company repurchases its shares, the number of shares and the timing of any repurchases will depend on general market conditions, legal requirements and
other corporate considerations. The repurchase program may be modified, suspended or terminated at any time without prior notice.
On August 16, 2022, the U.S. government enacted the Inflation Reduction Act (the "IRA") into law. The IRA, among other things, implements a 1%
excise tax on share repurchases, which takes effect in tax years beginning after December 31, 2022. In 2024, we recorded a total of $1.7 million excise tax on
our share repurchases.
Contractual Obligations
As of December 31, 2024, we had significant contractual obligations related to our floor plan notes payable disclosed in Notes 11 and 12, operating lease
liabilities disclosed in Note 19 and long-term debt arrangements discussed in Note 14. Disclosures related to our commitments and contingencies are outlined
in Note 21. All note references are to the notes to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere herein.
Cash Flows
Classification of Cash Flows Associated with Floor Plan Notes Payable
Borrowings and repayments of floor plan notes payable through our 2023 Senior Credit Facility ("Non-Trade"), and all floor plan notes payable relating
to used vehicles (together referred to as "Floor Plan Notes Payable—Non-Trade"), are classified as financing activities on the accompanying consolidated
statements of cash flows, with borrowings reflected separately from repayments. The net change in floor plan notes payable to a lender affiliated with the
manufacturer from which we purchase a particular new vehicle (collectively referred to as "Floor Plan Notes Payable—Trade") is classified as an operating
activity on the accompanying consolidated statements of cash flows. Borrowings of floor plan notes payable associated with inventory acquired in connection
with all acquisitions and repayments made in connection with all divestitures are classified as a financing activity in the accompanying consolidated statement
of cash flows. Cash flows related to floor plan notes payable included in operating activities differ from cash flows related to floor plan notes payable
included in financing activities only to the extent that the former are payable to a lender affiliated with the manufacturer from which we purchased the related
inventory, while the latter are payable to our 2023 Senior Credit Facility that includes lenders affiliated with the manufacturers and lenders not affiliated with
the manufacturers from which we purchased the related inventory. The majority of our floor plan notes are payable to our 2023 Senior Credit Facility, with
the exception of floor plan notes payable relating to the financing of new Ford and Lincoln vehicles and certain loaner vehicle programs.
Floor plan borrowings are required by all vehicle manufacturers for the purchase of new vehicles, and all floor plan lenders require amounts borrowed for
the purchase of a vehicle to be repaid within a short time period after the related vehicle is sold. As a result, we believe that it is important to understand the
relationship between the cash flows of all of our floor plan notes payable and new vehicle inventory in order to understand our working capital and operating
cash flow and to be able to compare our operating cash flow to that of our competitors (i.e., if our competitors have a different mix of trade and non-trade
floor plan financing as compared to us). In addition, we include all floor plan borrowings and repayments in our internal operating cash flow forecasts. As a
result, we use the non-GAAP measure "Adjusted cash flow provided by operating activities" (defined below) to compare our results to forecasts. We believe
that splitting the cash flows of floor plan notes payable between operating activities and financing activities, while all new vehicle inventory activity is
included in operating activities, results in significantly different operating cash flow than if all the cash flows of floor plan notes payable were classified
together in operating activities.
Adjusted cash flow provided by operating activities includes borrowings and repayments of floor plan notes payable non-trade and used floor plan notes
payable borrowing base changes. Adjusted cash flow provided by operating activities may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies
and should not be considered in isolation, or as a substitute for
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analysis of our operating results in accordance with GAAP. In order to compensate for these potential limitations we also review the related GAAP measures.
Adjustments related to cash flows associated with our used vehicle borrowing base, floorplan offset accounts and the impact of acquisitions and divestitures
eliminates cash flow volatility and provides an adjusted operating cash flow metric that best reflects our results of operations and our management of
inventory and related financing activities.
We have provided below a reconciliation of cash flow provided by operating activities, as if all changes in floor plan notes payable, except for (i)
borrowings associated with acquisitions and repayments associated with divestitures and (ii) borrowings and repayments associated with the purchase of used
vehicle inventory and (iii) changes in the floorplan offset accounts were classified as an operating activity for both floorplan notes payable - non-trade and
floor plan notes payable - trade.
For the Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
(In millions)
Reconciliation of cash provided by operating activities to cash provided by operating activities, as adjusted
Cash provided by operating activities, as reported
$
671.2
$
313.0
$
696.0
Change in Floor Plan Notes Payable Non-Trade, net
(5.2)
1,018.9
(191.1)
Change in Floor Plan Notes Payable Non-Trade associated with floor plan offset, used vehicle
borrowing base changes adjusted for acquisition and divestitures
71.9
(571.3)
462.4
Change in Floor Plan Notes Payable Trade associated with floor plan offset and acquisitions and
divestitures, net
(49.5)
(55.3)
19.7
Adjusted cash flow provided by operating activities
$
688.4
$
705.3
$
987.0
Operating Activities—
Net cash provided by operating activities totaled $671.2 million, $313.0 million, and $696.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and
2022, respectively. Adjusted cash flow provided by operating activities totaled $688.4 million, $705.3 million, and $987.0 million for the years ended
December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. Adjusted cash flow provided by operating activities includes net income, adjustments to reconcile net
income to net cash provided by operating activities, changes in working capital, changes in used vehicle borrowing base, changes in floor plan notes payable -
non-trade and trade, excluding the impact of offsets, and excluding operating cash flows associated with acquisitions and divestitures related to loaner
vehicles and new vehicle inventories financed through floor plan notes payable - trade.
The $16.9 million decrease in adjusted cash flow provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to the year ended
December 31, 2023, was primarily the result of the following:
•
decrease in $86.6 million in net income and non-cash adjustments to net income;
•
$100.9 million decrease related to the change in accounts payable and accrued liabilities; and
•
$24.8 million related to a decrease in inventory, net of floor plan notes payable, including both trade and non-trade, excluding offset and including
used vehicle borrowing base changes adjusted for acquisitions and divestitures.
The decrease in our adjusted cash flow provided by operating activities, was partially offset by:
•
$118.1 million decrease related to the change in other current assets, net;
•
$69.4 million decrease related to sale volume and the timing of collection of accounts receivable and contracts-in-transit during 2024 compared to
2023; and
•
$8.2 million decrease in other long term assets and liabilities, net.
The $281.7 million decrease in our adjusted cash flow provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to the year ended
December 31, 2022, was primarily the result of the following:
•
decrease of $192.4 million in net income and non-cash adjustments to net income;
•
$144.1 million related to sale volume and the timing of collection of accounts receivable and contracts-in-transit during 2023 compared to 2022;
•
$210.9 million related to the decrease in other current assets, net;
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•
$2.6 million increase in other long term assets and liabilities, net and
•
$1.3 million related to the change in operating lease liabilities.
The decrease in our adjusted cash flow provided by operating activities, was partially offset by:
•
$155.2 million related to an increase in inventory, net of floor plan notes payable, including both trade and non-trade, excluding offset and including
used vehicle borrowing base changes adjusted for acquisitions and divestitures; and
•
$114.4 million related to the change in accounts payable and accrued liabilities.
Investing Activities—
Net cash used in investing activities totaled $137.2 million and $1.68 billion for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, compared to
net cash provided by investing activities of $464.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. Cash flows from investing activities relate primarily to
capital expenditures, acquisitions, divestitures, and the sale of property and equipment.
Capital expenditures, excluding the purchase of real estate, were $162.6 million, $142.3 million, and $94.6 million for the years ended December 31,
2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. There were no purchases related to real estate for the year ended December 31, 2023. Purchases of real estate
totaled $145.6 million and $13.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2024, and 2022, respectively. In addition, we purchased previously leased facilities
for $11.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2024.
We expect that capital expenditures during 2025 will total approximately $260.3 million to upgrade or replace our existing facilities, construct new
facilities, expand our service capacity, and invest in technology and equipment. In addition, as part of our capital allocation strategy, we continually evaluate
opportunities to purchase properties currently under lease and acquire properties in connection with future dealership relocations. No assurances can be
provided that we will have or be able to access capital at times or on terms in amounts deemed necessary to execute this strategy.
On December 11, 2023, we completed the acquisition of the Jim Koons Dealerships for a total purchase price of approximately $1.50 billion, which
includes $256.1 million of new vehicle floor plan financing and $100.9 million of assets held for sale related to Koons Lexus of Wilmington. The sources of
the purchase price included borrowings under Asbury’s existing credit facility and cash on hand.
During the year ended December 31, 2024, we sold 1 Lexus franchise (1 dealership location) in Wilmington, Delaware due to OEM requirements in
connection with the Koons acquisition, 1 Nissan franchise (1 dealership location) in Denver, Colorado, 1 Nissan franchise (1 dealership location) in Atlanta,
Georgia, 1 Chevrolet franchise (1 dealership location) in Atlanta, Georgia and 1 Honda franchise (1 dealership location) in Spokane, Washington for proceeds
of $196.3 million
During the year ended December 31, 2023, we sold one franchise (one dealership location) in Austin, Texas for proceeds of $30.7 million.
During the year ended December 31, 2022, we sold one franchise (one dealership location) in St. Louis, Missouri, three franchises (three dealership
locations) and one collision center in Denver, Colorado, two franchises (two dealership locations) in Spokane, Washington, one franchise (one dealership
location) in Albuquerque, New Mexico and 11 franchises (nine dealership locations) and two collision centers in North Carolina for proceeds of $701.2
million.
Proceeds from the sale of assets, unrelated to a dealership divestiture, were $6.5 million and $16.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2024 and
2023, respectively. We did not have any proceeds from the sale of assets, unrelated to a dealership divestitures in 2022.
During the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, we purchased $165.0 million, $195.2 million and $202.2 million of debt securities and $41.4
million of equity securities in December 31, 2022. We did not purchase any equity securities in 2024 or 2023.
During the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, we also received proceeds of $149.8 million, $60.3 million, and $69.7 million from the sale
of debt securities respectively and $51.8 million and $50.3 million, from the sale of equity securities in 2023, and 2022, respectively. We did not have any
proceeds from the sale of equity securities in 2024.
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Financing Activities—
Net cash used in financing activities totaled $510.3 million and $1.10 billion for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2022, respectively. Net cash
provided by financing activities totaled $1.18 billion for the year ended December 31, 2023.
During the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, we had non-trade floor plan borrowings of $9.45 billion, $8.39 billion, and $7.41 billion,
respectively. Included in our non-trade floor plan borrowings, were borrowings of $100.7 million and $307.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2024
and 2023, respectively, related to our used vehicle floor plan facility. We did not have any floor plan borrowing related to our used vehicle floor plan facility
as of December 31, 2022.
During the year ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, we borrowed $1,213.5 million, $329.0 million, and $330.0 million, and repaid $1,213.5
million, $329.0 million and $499.0 million, respectively, on our revolving line of credit.
In addition, during the years ended December 31, 2023, we had non-trade floor plan borrowings of $256.1 million, related to acquisitions. The majority of
our floor plan notes are payable to parties unaffiliated with the entities from which we purchase our new vehicle inventory, with the exception of floor plan
notes payable relating to the financing of new Ford and Lincoln vehicles. We did not have any dealership acquisitions in 2024 and 2022.
During the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, we made non-trade floor plan repayments of $9.66 billion, $7.06 billion, and $7.89 billion,
respectively. In addition, during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2022, we had floor plan repayments associated with dealership divestitures of $34.1
million and $48.4 million, respectively. During 2023, we did not have any floor plan repayments associated with dealership divestitures.
Repayments of borrowings totaled $71.4 million, $126.0 million and $106.2 million, for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022,
respectively.
During the year ended December 31, 2022, we received net proceeds from the issuance of common stock totaling $1.4 million. We did not have any net
proceeds from the issuance of common stock in 2024 or 2023.
During the year ended December 31, 2024, 2023, 2022 we repurchased 830,297, 1,316,167 and 1,635,030 shares of our common stock under our
Repurchase Program for a total of 183.0 million and $258.1 million and $297.0 million and 46,941, 48,262 and 56,024 shares of our common stock for $10.2
million, $11.4 million and $9.2 million from employees in connection with a net share settlement feature of employee equity-based awards, respectively.
Off Balance Sheet Arrangements
We had no off balance sheet arrangements during any of the periods presented other than those disclosed in Note 21 "Commitments and Contingencies"
of the Company's consolidated financial statements.
Guarantor Financial Information
As of December 31, 2024, the Company had outstanding $405 million of 4.500% Senior Notes due 2028 and $445 million of 4.750% Senior Notes due
2030. As explained in Note 14 of the Company's consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2024, the Senior Notes have
been fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, on a senior unsecured basis, by each existing and future restricted subsidiary of the Company
(the "Guarantor Subsidiaries"), which are listed in Exhibit 21, with the exception of Landcar Administration Company, Landcar Agency, Inc. and Landcar
Casualty Company and their respective subsidiaries (collectively, the "TCA Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries").
The following tables present summarized financial information for the Company and the Guarantor Subsidiaries on a combined basis after elimination of
(i) intercompany transactions and balances among Asbury and the Guarantor Subsidiaries and (ii) assets, liabilities, and equity in earnings from and
investments in any non-guarantor subsidiaries.
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Summarized Balance Sheet Data of Asbury and Guarantor Subsidiaries
As of December 31,
2024
(In millions)
Current assets
$
2,927.7
Current assets - affiliates
$
0.5
Non-current assets
$
6,576.9
Current liabilities
$
2,372.4
Current liabilities - affiliates
$
26.9
Non-current liabilities
$
3,522.5
Summarized Statement of Operations Data for Asbury and Guarantor Subsidiaries
For the Year Ended
December 31,
2024
(In millions)
Net sales
$
16,885.0
Gross profit
$
2,860.4
Income from operations
$
757.1
Net income
$
369.8
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
Preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to
make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities, as of the date of the
financial statements, and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the periods presented. On an ongoing basis, management evaluates their
estimates and assumptions and the effects of any such revisions are reflected in the financial statements, in the period in which they are determined to be
necessary. Actual outcomes could differ materially from those estimates in a manner that could have a material effect on our consolidated financial
statements. Set forth below are the policies and estimates that we have identified as critical to our business operations and understanding our results of
operations, based on the high degree of judgment or complexity in their application.
Goodwill and Manufacturer Franchise Rights
Goodwill represents the excess cost of an acquired business over the fair market value of its identifiable assets and liabilities. We have determined, based
on how we integrate acquisitions into our business, how the components of our business share resources and interact with one another, and how we review the
results of our operations, that we have several geographic region-based operating segments. We have determined the dealerships in each of our operating
segments are components that are aggregated into geographic region-based operating segments which are also our reporting units for the purpose of testing
goodwill for impairment, as they (i) have similar economic characteristics, (ii) offer similar products and services (all of our franchised dealerships offer new
and used vehicles, parts and service, and arrange for third-party vehicle financing and the sale of insurance products), (iii) have similar customers, (iv) have
similar distribution and marketing practices (all of our dealerships distribute products and services through dealership facilities that market to customers in
similar ways) and (v) operate under similar regulatory environments. Our TCA segment also represents a reporting unit for the purpose of testing goodwill for
impairment.
Our only other significant identifiable intangible assets are our rights under franchise agreements with manufacturers, which are recorded at an individual
franchise level. The fair value of our manufacturer franchise rights are determined at the acquisition date, by discounting the projected cash flows specific to
each franchise. We have determined that manufacturer franchise rights have an indefinite life as there are no economic, contractual or other factors that limit
their useful lives, and they are expected to generate cash flows indefinitely due to the historically long lives of the manufacturers' brand names. Furthermore,
to the extent that any agreements evidencing our manufacturer franchise rights would expire, we expect that we would be able to renew those agreements in
the ordinary course of business.
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We do not amortize goodwill and other intangible assets that are deemed to have indefinite lives. We review goodwill and manufacturer franchise rights
for impairment annually as of October 1 , or more often if events or circumstances indicate that any impairment may have occurred. We have the option of
performing a qualitative assessment of impairment to determine whether any further quantitative assessment for impairment is necessary. The option of
whether or not to perform a qualitative assessment is made annually and may vary by reporting unit. Factors we consider in the qualitative assessment include
general macroeconomic conditions, industry and market conditions, cost factors, overall financial performance of our reporting units, events or changes
affecting the composition or carrying amount of the net assets of our reporting units, sustained decrease in our share price, and other relevant entity-specific
events. If we elect to bypass the qualitative assessment or if we determine, on the basis of qualitative factors, that the fair value of the reporting unit is more
likely than not less than the carrying amount, a quantitative test would be required.
Based on the underperformance of certain stores, we performed quantitative impairment tests in the second quarter of 2024 and as of our annual
impairment testing date, October 1, 2024. The results of the quantitative impairment testing identified that the carrying values of certain of our franchise
rights intangible assets exceeded their fair value by $134.1 million and $14.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2024,
respectively. In total, we recognized a $148.2 million pre-tax non-cash impairment charge related to our franchise rights intangible assets during the year
ended December 31, 2024.
In connection with a change in reporting units in our Dealerships segment, we performed qualitative and quantitative impairment tests of goodwill for the
affected reporting units as of October 1, 2024, both before and after the change in reporting units. For all reporting units, for which a qualitative or
quantitative impairment test was performed as of October 1, 2024, the fair values exceeded their carrying amounts. We believe that the fair value of our
reporting units is substantially in excess of its carrying amount.
We also recorded a goodwill impairment charge of $1.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2024 related to one dealership that met the assets
held for sale criteria in June 2024. The quantitative impairment test of the disposal group included a comparison of the estimated fair value to the carrying
value of the disposal group less cost to sell. This asset impairment charge is reflected in asset impairments in our consolidated statements of income.
In total, we recognized asset impairments of $149.5 million and $117.2 million during the years ended December 31, 2024, and 2023, respectively. No
franchise rights or goodwill impairments were identified in 2022.
We continue to monitor developments related to macroeconomic conditions and the performance of our stores and reporting units. It is reasonably
possible that future developments could have a negative effect on the estimates and assumptions utilized in our impairment assessments and could result in
material impairment charges in future periods.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Interest Rate Risk
We are exposed to risk from changes in interest rates on a significant portion of our outstanding indebtedness. Based on $1.67 billion of total variable
interest rate debt, which includes our floor plan notes payable, amounts drawn on our used vehicle floor plan, revolver and certain mortgage liabilities,
outstanding as of December 31, 2024, a 100 basis point change in interest rates would result in a change of $16.7 million in annual interest expense.
We periodically receive floor plan assistance from certain automobile manufacturers, which is primarily accounted for as a reduction in our new vehicle
inventory cost. Floor plan assistance reduced our cost of sales for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, by $99.7 million, $87.0 million and
$85.8 million, respectively. We cannot provide assurance as to the future amount of floor plan assistance and these amounts may be negatively impacted due
to future changes in interest rates.
As part of our strategy to mitigate our exposure to fluctuations in interest rates, we have various interest rate swap agreements. All of our interest rate
swaps qualify for cash flow hedge accounting treatment and do not contain any ineffectiveness.
As of December 31, 2024 we had six interest rate swap agreements. These swaps are designed to provide a hedge against changes in variable rate cash
flows regarding fluctuations in SOFR. All interest rate swap agreements with an inception date of 2021 and prior were amended on June 1, 2022 to provide a
hedge against changes in variable rate cash flows regarding fluctuations in SOFR as compared to the previous benchmark rate of one-month LIBOR. The
revisions to the interest rate swap agreements did not impact our hedge accounting. The following table provides information on the attributes of each swap as
of December 31, 2024:
st
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Inception Date
Notional Value at Inception
Notional Value
Notional Value at Maturity
Maturity Date
(In millions)
(In millions)
(In millions)
January 2022
$
300.0 $
258.8
$
228.8
December 2026
January 2022
$
250.0 $
250.0
$
250.0
December 2031
May 2021
$
184.4 $
158.6
$
110.6
May 2031
July 2020
$
93.5 $
71.0
$
50.6
December 2028
July 2020
$
85.5 $
62.7
$
57.3
November 2025
June 2015
$
100.0 $
53.5
$
53.1
February 2025
These interest rate swaps are marked to market at each reporting date and any unrealized gains or losses are included in accumulated other comprehensive
income and reclassified to other interest expense in the same period or periods during which the hedged transactions affect earnings. For additional
information about the effect of our derivative instruments, please refer to Note 15 "Financial Instruments and Fair Value" within the accompanying
consolidated financial statements.
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Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Page
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (PCAOB ID: 42)
69
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2024 and 2023
73
Consolidated Statements of Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022
74
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022
75
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022
76
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022
77
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
79
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. (the Company) as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the
related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended
December 31, 2024, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial
statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at December 31, 2024 and 2023, and the results of its operations and
its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2024, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's
internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the
Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework), and our report dated February 26, 2025 expressed an adverse
opinion thereon.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial
statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company
in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable
assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures
to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks.
Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included
evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial
statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical Audit Matter
The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the financial statements that was communicated or required
to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our
especially challenging, subjective or complex judgments. The communication of the critical audit matter does not alter in any way our opinion on the
consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the
critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.
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Goodwill and Manufacturer Franchise Rights Interim Quantitative Impairment Assessment
Description of the
Matter
At December 31, 2024, the Company’s goodwill and manufacturer franchise rights had an aggregate carrying value of approximately
$2,044.7 million and $1,911.7 million, respectively, as disclosed in Note 10 of the consolidated financial statements. Manufacturer
franchise rights and goodwill are assessed for impairment annually as of October 1st, or more often if events or circumstances
indicate that impairment may have occurred. If the fair value of a franchise right or a goodwill reporting unit is less than its carrying
amount, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to the difference.
We identified as a critical audit matter the assessment of the Company’s projected cash flows utilized in the interim quantitative
impairment tests over certain manufacturer franchise rights and the goodwill of the Arizona and Utah reporting units. In connection
with its interim quantitative impairment assessment performed during the second quarter 2024, the Company recorded impairment
charges of $134.1 million related to manufacturer franchise rights, as disclosed in Note 10 of the consolidated financial statements,
and there was no impairment charge recorded related to goodwill as the carrying values of the Arizona and Utah reporting units did
not exceed their fair value.
Auditing the Company's fair value estimates used in its impairment assessment was complex due to the estimation uncertainty
required to determine the fair value of the franchise rights and the fair value of the reporting units subject to the interim quantitative
impairment assessment. The Company's model for estimating the fair value of these assets was sensitive to changes in significant
market participant assumptions related to the cash flows directly attributable to the franchise rights and goodwill reporting units,
including the revenue growth rates, which are forward-looking and affected by expectations about economic, industry and company-
specific factors.
How We
Addressed the
Matter in Our
Audit
We obtained an understanding, evaluated the design and tested the operating effectiveness of the Company’s controls over the
goodwill and manufacturer franchise rights fair value estimates used in conjunction with its interim quantitative impairment
assessments. This included testing controls over management’s review of the model, significant assumptions, other inputs and the
completeness and accuracy of the data used in the measurements.
Procedures performed to test the fair value of the Company's goodwill and manufacturer franchise rights as part of the interim
quantitative impairment assessments included, among others, evaluating the Company's use of the discounted cash flows method,
testing of the revenue growth assumption used in the valuation model used to develop the projected financial information, involving
our valuation specialists to assist in the testing of the appropriateness of the model used, and testing the completeness and accuracy of
the underlying data. We compared the assumptions to current industry, market and economic trends, as well as to the Company's
historical results. In addition, we assessed the accuracy of the Company’s projections by comparing them to actual operating results
and evaluated the Company’s intent and ability to carry out a particular course of action by evaluating the Company’s past history of
carrying out its stated intentions. We also performed a sensitivity analysis of the revenue growth assumption to evaluate the potential
change in the fair value of the goodwill and manufacturer franchise rights resulting from changes in underlying assumptions.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2008.
Atlanta, Georgia
February 26, 2025
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
Opinion on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
We have audited Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024, based on criteria established in Internal
Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) (the COSO criteria).
In our opinion, because of the effect of the material weakness described below on the achievement of the objectives of the control criteria, Asbury
Automotive Group, Inc. (the Company) has not maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024, based on the COSO
criteria.
A material weakness is a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that
a material misstatement of the company’s annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. The following material
weakness has been identified and included in management’s assessment.
Management identified a material weakness in internal control over financial reporting in Jim Koons Automotive Companies business (“Koons”). The design
of information technology general controls for an information technology (“IT”) application that is used across all significant processes within the Koons
business was not effective, specifically pertaining to insufficient control activities at a third-party system administrator. As a result, automated and business
process controls that are dependent on the completeness and accuracy of information derived from the affected IT system were also ineffective because they
could have been adversely impacted.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated
balance sheets of the Company as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, shareholders'
equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2024, and the related notes. This material weakness was considered in
determining the nature, timing and extent of audit tests applied in our audit of the 2024 consolidated financial statements, and this report does not affect our
report dated February 26, 2025, which expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of
internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility
is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the
PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and
regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable
assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and
evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered
necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and
the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over
financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect
the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit
preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being
made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or
timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
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Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of
effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance
with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Atlanta, Georgia
February 26, 2025
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ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In millions, except par value and share data)
As of December 31,
2024
2023
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents
$
69.4
$
45.7
Short-term investments
14.4
6.2
Contracts-in-transit, net
263.8
279.7
Accounts receivable, net
285.5
226.1
Inventories, net
1,978.8
1,768.3
Assets held for sale
174.4
342.2
Other current assets
351.7
388.9
Total current assets
3,137.9
3,057.1
INVESTMENTS
334.2
326.7
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net
2,550.7
2,315.7
OPERATING LEASE RIGHT-OF-USE ASSETS
220.1
241.8
GOODWILL
2,044.7
2,009.0
INTANGIBLE FRANCHISE RIGHTS
1,911.7
2,095.8
OTHER LONG-TERM ASSETS
137.8
113.3
Total assets
$
10,337.0
$
10,159.4
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Floor plan notes payable—trade, net
$
349.9
$
195.1
Floor plan notes payable—non-trade, net
1,344.8
1,590.6
Current maturities of long-term debt
114.7
84.9
Current maturities of operating leases
28.1
26.2
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
761.4
748.1
Deferred revenue—current
235.5
228.6
Liabilities associated with assets held for sale
1.9
2.1
Total current liabilities
2,836.3
2,875.7
LONG-TERM DEBT
3,023.9
3,121.2
LONG-TERM LEASE LIABILITY
200.0
222.1
DEFERRED REVENUE
530.5
508.1
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES
187.7
136.4
OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES
56.4
51.7
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 21)
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Preferred stock, $.01 par value, 10,000,000 shares authorized; none issued or outstanding
—
—
Common stock, $.01 par value, 90,000,000 shares authorized; 41,649,426 and 42,352,001 shares issued,
including shares held in treasury, respectively
0.4
0.4
Additional paid-in capital
1,305.1
1,288.4
Retained earnings
3,218.9
2,961.5
Treasury stock, at cost; 22,065,478 and 22,018,537 shares, respectively
(1,079.2)
(1,067.3)
Accumulated other comprehensive income
56.8
61.1
Total shareholders' equity
3,502.1
3,244.1
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
$
10,337.0
$
10,159.4
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
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ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(In millions, except per share data)
For the Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
REVENUE:
New vehicle
$
8,849.7
$
7,630.7
$
7,365.6
Used vehicle
5,218.2
4,414.3
5,197.1
Parts and service
2,354.7
2,081.5
2,074.2
Finance and insurance, net
766.0
676.2
797.0
TOTAL REVENUE
17,188.6
14,802.7
15,433.8
COST OF SALES:
New vehicle
8,209.3
6,927.8
6,521.6
Used vehicle
4,972.7
4,150.2
4,843.8
Parts and service
1,003.5
931.0
921.6
Finance and insurance
54.4
37.9
46.3
TOTAL COST OF SALES
14,240.0
12,046.9
12,333.3
GROSS PROFIT
2,948.6
2,755.8
3,100.6
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Selling, general and administrative
1,888.5
1,617.4
1,763.4
Depreciation and amortization
75.0
67.7
69.0
Asset impairments
149.5
117.2
—
Other operating income, net
—
—
(4.4)
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS
835.6
953.5
1,272.6
OTHER EXPENSES (INCOME):
Floor plan interest expense
89.9
9.6
8.4
Other interest expense, net
179.1
156.1
152.2
Gain on dealership divestitures, net
(8.6)
(13.5)
(207.1)
Total other expenses (income), net
260.3
152.2
(46.5)
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
575.3
801.3
1,319.1
Income tax expense
145.0
198.8
321.8
NET INCOME
$
430.3
$
602.5
$
997.3
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE:
Basic—
Net Income
$
21.58
$
28.87
$
44.78
Diluted—
Net Income
$
21.50
$
28.74
$
44.61
WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING:
Basic
19.9
20.9
22.3
Restricted stock
—
—
0.1
Performance share units
0.1
0.1
—
Diluted
20.0
21.0
22.4
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
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ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(In millions)
For the Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Net income
$
430.3
$
602.5
$
997.3
Other comprehensive (loss) income:
Change in fair value of cash flow swaps
(3.2)
(22.6)
103.3
Unrealized (losses) gains on available-for-sale debt securities
(2.5)
5.2
(4.0)
Income tax benefit (expense) associated with other comprehensive income items
1.4
4.0
(24.3)
Comprehensive income
$
426.1
$
589.1
$
1,072.2
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
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ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
(Dollars in millions)
Common Stock
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
Retained
Earnings
Treasury Stock
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
Total
Shares
Amount
Shares
Amount
Balances, December 31, 2021
45,052,293
$
0.4
$
1,278.6
$
1,881.3
21,914,251
$
(1,044.1)
$
(0.7)
$
2,115.5
Comprehensive Income:
Net income
—
—
—
997.3
—
—
—
997.3
Change in fair value of cash flow swaps, net
of reclassification adjustment and
$25.1 million tax expense
—
—
—
—
—
—
78.1
78.1
Unrealized loss on changes in fair value of debt
securities, net of $0.8 million tax benefit
—
—
—
—
—
—
(3.2)
(3.2)
Comprehensive income
—
—
—
997.3
—
—
74.9
1,072.2
Share-based compensation
—
—
20.6
—
—
—
—
20.6
Issuance of common stock, net of forfeitures,
in connection with share-based payment
arrangements
122,342
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Share issues (repurchases)
—
—
1.4
—
1,635,030
(297.0)
—
(295.6)
Repurchase of common stock associated with
net share settlements of employee share-based
awards
—
—
—
—
56,024
(9.2)
—
(9.2)
Retirement of common stock
(1,580,826)
—
(19.1)
(268.3)
(1,580,826)
287.4
—
—
Balances, December 31, 2022
43,593,809
$
0.4
$
1,281.4
$
2,610.1
22,024,479
$
(1,063.0)
$
74.4
$
2,903.5
Comprehensive Income:
Net income
—
—
—
602.5
—
—
—
602.5
Change in fair value of cash flow swaps, net
of reclassification adjustment and $5.1 million
tax benefit
—
—
—
—
—
—
(17.5)
(17.5)
Unrealized gain on changes in fair value of
debt securities, net of $1.1 million tax expense
—
—
—
—
—
—
4.1
4.1
Comprehensive income
—
—
—
602.5
—
—
(13.4)
589.1
Share-based compensation
—
—
23.5
—
—
—
—
23.5
Issuance of common stock, net of forfeitures,
in connection with share-based payment
arrangements
128,563
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Share issues (repurchases)
—
—
—
—
1,316,167
(260.6)
—
(260.6)
Repurchase of common stock associated with
net share settlements of employee share-based
awards
—
—
—
—
48,262
(11.4)
—
(11.4)
Retirement of common stock
(1,370,371)
—
(16.5)
(251.1)
(1,370,371)
267.7
—
—
Balances, December 31, 2023
42,352,001
$
0.4
$
1,288.4
$
2,961.5
22,018,537
$
(1,067.3)
$
61.1
$
3,244.1
Comprehensive Income:
Net income
—
—
—
430.3
—
—
—
430.3
Change in fair value of cash flow swaps, net
of reclassification adjustment and $0.9 million
tax benefit
—
—
—
—
—
—
(2.3)
(2.3)
Unrealized gain on changes in fair value of
debt securities, net of $0.6 million tax benefit
—
—
—
—
—
—
(1.9)
(1.9)
Comprehensive income
—
—
—
430.3
—
—
(4.2)
426.1
Share-based compensation
—
—
26.7
—
—
—
—
26.7
Issuance of common stock, net of forfeitures,
in connection with share-based payment
arrangements
127,722
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Share issues (repurchases)
—
—
—
—
830,297
(184.6)
—
(184.6)
Repurchase of common stock associated with
net share settlements of employee share-based
awards
—
—
—
—
46,941
(10.2)
—
(10.2)
Retirement of common stock
(830,297)
—
(10.0)
(173.0)
(830,297)
183.0
—
—
Balances, December 31, 2024
41,649,426
$
0.4
$
1,305.1
$
3,218.9
22,065,478
$
(1,079.2)
$
56.8
$
3,502.1
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
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ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In millions)
For the Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income
$
430.3
$
602.5
$
997.3
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities—
Depreciation and amortization
75.0
67.7
69.0
Share-based compensation
26.7
23.5
20.6
Deferred income taxes
52.7
39.7
148.5
Asset impairments
149.5
117.2
—
Unrealized (gain) loss on investments
(0.6)
(2.1)
14.1
Loaner vehicle amortization
47.2
34.8
14.7
Gain on divestitures, net
(8.6)
(13.5)
(207.1)
Change in right-of-use asset
28.7
26.8
25.3
Other adjustments, net
7.3
(1.9)
4.6
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions and divestitures—
Contracts-in-transit
15.9
(58.9)
(17.0)
Accounts receivable
(60.0)
(54.6)
47.6
Inventories
(230.2)
(575.7)
(274.5)
Other current assets
(15.3)
(133.4)
(72.3)
Floor plan notes payable—trade, net
154.8
144.1
13.8
Deferred revenue
29.3
22.8
42.9
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
12.8
119.5
(69.8)
Operating lease liabilities
(27.2)
(26.7)
(25.4)
Other long-term assets and liabilities, net
(17.1)
(18.8)
(36.3)
Net cash provided by operating activities
671.2
313.0
696.0
CASH FLOW FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Capital expenditures—excluding real estate
(162.6)
(142.3)
(94.6)
Capital expenditures—real estate
(145.6)
—
(13.3)
Purchases of previously leased real estate
(11.9)
—
—
Acquisitions
(4.7)
(1,500.0)
(5.0)
Proceeds from dealership divestitures
196.3
30.7
701.2
Purchases of debt securities—available-for-sale
(165.0)
(195.2)
(202.2)
Purchases of equity securities
—
—
(41.4)
Proceeds from the sale of debt securities—available-for-sale
149.8
60.3
69.7
Proceeds from the sale of equity securities
—
51.8
50.3
Proceeds from the sale of assets
6.5
16.3
—
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities
(137.2)
(1,678.4)
464.7
CASH FLOW FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Floor plan borrowings—non-trade
9,445.7
8,385.8
7,406.5
Floor plan borrowings—acquisitions
—
256.1
—
Floor plan repayments—non-trade
(9,657.3)
(7,059.8)
(7,891.6)
Floor plan repayments—divestitures
(34.1)
—
(48.4)
Repayments of borrowings
(71.4)
(126.0)
(106.2)
Proceeds from revolving credit facility
1,213.5
329.0
330.0
Repayments of revolving credit facility
(1,213.5)
(329.0)
(499.0)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
—
—
1.4
Payment of debt issuance costs
—
(1.2)
(0.4)
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For the Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Purchase of treasury stock
(183.0)
(267.7)
(287.4)
Repurchases of common stock, including amounts associated with net share settlements of employee share-
based awards
(10.2)
(11.4)
(9.2)
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities
(510.3)
1,175.8
(1,104.3)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
23.7
(189.6)
56.4
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period
45.7
235.3
178.9
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period
$
69.4
$
45.7
$
235.3
See Note 18 for supplemental cash flow information
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
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ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022)
1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation organized in 2002, is one of the largest automotive retailers in the United States. Our store
operations are conducted by our subsidiaries.
As of December 31, 2024, we owned and operated 198 new vehicle franchises (152 vehicle dealership locations), representing 31 brands of automobiles,
and 37 collision centers in 14 states. Our stores offer an extensive range of automotive products and services, including new and used vehicles; parts and
service, which includes repair and maintenance services, replacement parts and collision repair services (collectively referred to as "parts and services" or
"P&S"); and finance and insurance ("F&I") products, including arranging vehicle financing through third parties and aftermarket products, such as extended
service contracts, guaranteed asset protection ("GAP") debt cancellation and prepaid maintenance. The finance and insurance products are provided by Total
Care Auto, Powered by Landcar ("TCA") and independent third parties. The Company manages its operations in two reportable segments: Dealerships and
TCA.
Our operating results are generally subject to seasonal variations. Demand for new vehicles is generally highest during the second and third quarters of
each year and, accordingly, we expect our revenues to generally be higher during these periods. In addition, we typically experience higher sales of luxury
vehicles in the fourth quarter, which have higher average selling prices and gross profit per vehicle retailed. Revenues and operating results may be impacted
significantly from quarter to quarter by changing economic conditions, inventory availability, vehicle manufacturer incentive programs, or adverse weather
events.
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States
of America ("GAAP"), and reflect the consolidated accounts of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. (the "Company") and our wholly owned subsidiaries. All
intercompany transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. If necessary, reclassifications of amounts previously reported have been made to the
accompanying consolidated financial statements in order to conform to current presentation. Amounts presented have been calculated using non-rounded
amounts for all periods presented and therefore certain amounts may not compute due to rounding.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported
amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues
and expenses during the periods presented. Actual results could differ materially from these estimates. Estimates and assumptions are reviewed quarterly, and
the effects of any revisions are reflected in the consolidated financial statements in the period they are determined to be necessary. Estimates made in the
accompanying consolidated financial statements include, but are not limited to, those relating to inventory valuation reserves, reserves for chargebacks
against revenue recognized from the sale of finance and insurance products, reserves for self-insurance programs, and certain assumptions related to goodwill
and dealership franchise rights intangible assets.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include investments in money market accounts and short-term certificates of deposit, which have maturity dates of less than 90
days when purchased.
Restricted Cash and Securities
TCA places securities on statutory deposit with certain state agencies to retain the right to do business in those states. Securities held on deposit with
various state regulatory authorities had a fair value of $3.6 million at December 31, 2024. These securities are reflected in investments in our consolidated
balance sheets.
Short-Term Investments
Short-term investments consist of debt securities that are callable or have a maturity date within the next 12 months and are classified as current assets.
Debt securities classified as short-term investments are designated as available-for-sale as management intends to hold these securities for indefinite periods
of time or may sell the securities in response to changes in interest rates, prepayments, or other similar factors. Available-for-sale debt securities are reported
at fair market value with any unrealized gain or loss, net of applicable income tax, reported in other comprehensive income, as a separate component of
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shareholders’ equity. Premiums and discounts on debt securities classified as short-term investments are amortized or accreted using the effective interest
method over the period from the purchase date to the expected maturity or call date of the related security and are reported in net income.
Investments
Investments consist of available-for-sale debt securities and other investments. These securities are classified as non-current investments as they are not
intended to fund current operations or have stated call dates or maturity dates beyond the next 12 months. We sold all equity securities during the year ended
December 31, 2023. The Company only holds debt securities as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
Debt securities classified as non-current investments are designated as available-for-sale as management intends to hold these securities for indefinite
periods of time or may sell the securities in response to changes in interest rates, prepayments, or other similar factors. Available-for-sale debt securities
included in non-current investments are reported at fair market value with any unrealized gain or loss, net of applicable income tax, reported in other
comprehensive income, as a separate component of shareholders’ equity. Premiums and discounts on debt securities included in non-current investments are
amortized or accreted, as applicable, using the effective interest method over the period from the purchase date to the expected maturity or call date of the
related security and are reported in net income.
We review the debt securities portfolio at the security level on a quarterly basis for potential credit losses, which takes into consideration numerous
factors. Some factors evaluated include changes in credit ratings, financial conditions of the issuer, recent payment activity, and other industry specific
economic conditions. If a security is considered to have a potential credit loss, we compare the present value of expected cash flows to the amortized cost
basis of the security to estimate the allowance for credit losses. The amount of the allowance is limited to the gross unrealized loss on an individual security.
An unrealized loss on a debt security is generally considered to not be related to credit when the fair value of the security is below the carrying value of the
security primarily due to changes in risk-free interest rates and when there has not been a significant deterioration in the financial condition of the issuer. If
the Company no longer has the intent or ability to hold a security in an unrealized loss position until recovery of the security’s cost basis, a loss is realized
immediately in net income.
Contracts-In-Transit
Contracts-in-transit represent receivables from third-party finance companies for the portion of new and used vehicle purchase price financed by
customers through sources arranged by us.
Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realizable value. We use the specific identification method to value vehicle inventories and parts and
accessories are valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Our new vehicle sales history indicates that the vast majority of the new vehicles we sell are
sold for, or in excess of, our cost to purchase those vehicles. Therefore, we generally do not maintain a reserve for new vehicle inventory. We maintain a
reserve for used vehicle inventory where cost basis exceeds net realizable value. In assessing lower of cost and net realizable value for used vehicles, we
consider (i) the aging of our used vehicles, (ii) historical sales experience of used vehicles, and (iii) current market conditions and trends in used vehicle sales.
We also review and consider the following metrics related to used vehicle sales (both on a recent and longer-term historical basis): (i) days of supply in our
used vehicle inventory, (ii) used vehicle units sold at less than original cost as a percentage of total used vehicles sold, and (iii) average vehicle selling price of
used vehicle units sold at less than original cost. We then determine the appropriate level of reserve required to reduce our used vehicle inventory to the lower
of cost and net realizable value, and record the resulting adjustment in the period in which we determine a loss has occurred. The level of reserve determined
to be appropriate for each reporting period is considered to be a permanent inventory write-down, and therefore is only released upon the sale of the related
inventory.
We receive assistance from certain automobile manufacturers in the form of advertising and floor plan interest credits. Manufacturer advertising credits
that are reimbursements of costs associated with specific advertising programs are recognized as a reduction of advertising expense in the period they are
earned. All other manufacturer advertising and certain floor plan interest credits are accounted for as purchase discounts, and are recorded as a reduction of
inventory and recognized as a reduction to new vehicle cost of sales in the accompanying consolidated statements of income in the period the related vehicle
is sold.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are recorded at cost and depreciated using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives. Depreciation is included in
depreciation and amortization on the accompanying consolidated statements of income. Leasehold
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improvements are capitalized and amortized over the lesser of the remaining lease term or the useful life of the related asset. The ranges of estimated useful
lives are as follows (in years):
Buildings and improvements
10-40
Machinery and equipment
5-10
Furniture and fixtures
3-10
Company vehicles
3-5
Expenditures for major additions or improvements, which extend the useful lives of assets, are capitalized. Minor replacements, maintenance and repairs,
which do not improve or extend the lives of such assets, are expensed as incurred. We capitalize interest on borrowings during the active construction period
of capital projects. Capitalized interest is added to the cost of the assets and is depreciated over the estimated useful lives of the assets.
We review property and equipment for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable.
When we test our long-lived assets for impairment, we first compare the carrying amount of the underlying assets to their net recoverable value by reviewing
the undiscounted cash flows expected from the use and eventual disposition of the underlying assets. If the carrying amount of the underlying assets is less
than their net recoverable value, then we calculate an impairment equal to the excess of the carrying amount over the fair market value, and the impairment
loss would be charged to operations in the period identified.
Acquisitions
Acquisitions are accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting and the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded at their fair value
at the acquisition date. Results of acquired businesses, which are primarily dealerships, are included in our accompanying consolidated statements of income
commencing on the date of acquisition. Our acquisitions are accounted for such that the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recognized at their
acquisition date fair values, with any excess of the consideration transferred over the estimated fair values of the identifiable net assets acquired recorded as
goodwill. Goodwill is an asset representing operational synergies and future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination
that are not individually identified and separately recognized. Upon the completion of purchase accounting, the fair value of our manufacturer franchise rights
are determined as of the acquisition date, by discounting the projected cash flows specific to each franchise. Included in this analysis are market participant
assumptions related to the cash flows directly attributable to the franchise rights, including year-over-year and terminal growth rates, working capital
requirements, weighted average cost of capital, future gross margins, and future selling, general and administrative expenses.
Goodwill and Franchise Rights
Goodwill represents the excess cost of an acquired business over the estimated fair market value of its identifiable net assets. We have determined that,
based on how we integrate acquisitions into our business, how the components of our business share resources and interact with one another, and how we
review the results of our operations, that we have several geographic region operating segments which consist of our dealerships. We have determined that the
dealerships in each of our operating segments are components that are aggregated into three geographic region reporting units for the purpose of testing
goodwill for impairment, as they (i) have similar economic characteristics, (ii) offer similar products and services (all of our dealerships offer new and used
vehicles, service, parts and third-party finance and insurance products), (iii) have similar customers, (iv) have similar distribution and marketing practices (all
of our dealerships distribute products and services through dealership facilities that market to customers in similar ways), and (v) operate under similar
regulatory environments. Our dealership operating segments are aggregated into our Dealerships reportable segment. Goodwill associated with TCA is tested
for impairment at the operating segment level which is the same as the reporting unit for this business.
The fair value of our manufacturer franchise rights are determined as of the acquisition date, by discounting the projected cash flows specific to each
franchise. We have determined that manufacturer franchise rights have an indefinite life, as there are no economic, contractual or other factors that limit their
useful lives, and they are expected to generate cash flows indefinitely due to the historically long lives of the manufacturers' brand names. Furthermore, to the
extent that any agreements evidencing our manufacturer franchise rights would expire, we expect that we would be able to renew those agreements in the
ordinary course of business.
Goodwill and manufacturer franchise rights are deemed to have indefinite lives and therefore are not subject to amortization. We review goodwill and
manufacturer franchise rights for impairment annually as of October 1 , or more often if events or circumstances indicate that impairment may have occurred.
We are subject to financial statement risk to the extent
st
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that goodwill becomes impaired due to decreases in the fair value of our automotive retail business or manufacturer franchise rights become impaired due to
decreases in the fair value of our individual franchises.
Our identifiable intangible assets, other than goodwill, are our rights under franchise agreements with manufacturers, which are recorded at an individual
franchise level, and the value of business acquired ("VOBA") which is recorded at the TCA segment level. We recorded VOBA of $5.6 million in connection
with the acquisition of TCA in 2021. VOBA reflects the estimated fair value of the expected future profits in unearned premium for in-force service contracts
acquired in the LHM acquisition. VOBA is reflected in other long-term assets within the consolidated balance sheets and is amortized over 5 years, which
represents the approximate term of the underlying contracts.
Debt Issuance Costs
Debt issuance costs are presented as a contra-liability within current maturities of long-term debt or long-term debt on our consolidated balance sheets,
except for debt issuance costs associated with our line-of-credit arrangements, which are presented as an asset within other current assets or other long-term
assets on our consolidated balance sheets. Debt issuance costs are amortized to floor plan interest expense and other interest expense, net in the accompanying
consolidated statements of income through maturity using the effective interest method or the straight-line method for our line-of-credit arrangements.
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
From time to time, we utilize derivative financial instruments to manage our interest rate risk. The types of risks hedged are those relating to the
variability of cash flows caused by fluctuations in interest rates. We document our risk management strategy and assess hedge effectiveness at each interest
rate swap's inception and during the term of each hedge. Derivatives are reported at fair value on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
The changes in fair value on our hedges is reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss on the accompanying consolidated balance
sheets, and reclassified to other interest expense, net in the accompanying consolidated statements of income in the period during which the hedged
transaction affects earnings.
Self-insurance Programs
We are self-insured for most of our employee medical claims and maintain stop-loss insurance for large-dollar individual claims. We have high deductible
insurance programs for workers compensation, property and general liability claims. We maintain and review our claim and loss history to assist in assessing
our expected future liability for these claims. We also use professional service providers, such as account administrators and actuaries, to help us accumulate
and assess this information. Provisions for retained losses and deductibles are made by charges to expense based upon periodic evaluations of the estimated
ultimate liabilities on reported and unreported claims.
Revenue Recognition
We recognize revenue in accordance with ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers ("Topic 606"). Under that guidance, the transaction price is
attributed to the underlying performance obligations in the contract and revenue is deferred and recognized as income as the Company satisfies the
performance obligations in the contract. Incremental costs of obtaining a contract with a customer are capitalized and amortized to the extent that the
Company expects to recover those costs. The Company satisfies performance obligations either over time or at a point in time as discussed in further detail
below. Revenue is recognized at the time the related performance obligation is satisfied by transferring a promised good or performing a service. Sales and
other taxes we collect, concurrent with revenue-producing activities, are excluded from revenue.
New vehicle and used vehicle retail
Revenue from the sale of new and used vehicles is recognized when the terms of the customer contract are satisfied which generally occurs with the
signing of the sales contract and transfer of control of the vehicle to the customer. Payment is generally received at the time of sale or from a third-party
financial institution within a short period of time following the sale of the vehicle. Amounts due from third-party financial institutions are reflected in
contracts-in-transit or vehicle receivables within accounts receivable, net on our consolidated balance sheets. Costs associated with incidental items that are
immaterial in the context of the contract are accrued at the time of sale.
Used vehicle wholesale
Proceeds from the sale of these vehicles are recognized in used vehicle revenue upon transfer of control to end-users at auction.
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Sale of vehicle parts and accessories
The Company recognizes revenue upon transfer of control to the customer which occurs at a point in time. Payment is typically received when control of
the parts and accessories transfers to the customer or within 30 days of such time. When the Company performs shipping and handling activities after the
transfer of control to the customer (e.g., when control transfers prior to delivery), they are considered as fulfillment activities, and accordingly, the costs are
accrued when the related revenue is recognized.
Vehicle repair and maintenance services
The Company provides vehicle repair and maintenance services to its customers pursuant to the terms and conditions included within the customer
contract ("repair order"). Payment for services are typically received upon completion of the services or within 30 days following the completion of the
services. Satisfaction of this performance obligation creates an asset with no alternative use for which an enforceable right to payment for performance to date
exists within our contractual agreements. As such, the Company recognizes revenue over time as the Company satisfies its performance obligation.
Additionally, the Company has determined that parts and labor are not individually distinct in the context of a repair order and therefore treated as a single
performance obligation. Certain of these services are provided by the Dealerships segment to TCA customers in connection with claims related to TCA's
vehicle protection products. Revenues recorded by the Dealerships segment and the associated claims expense recorded by the TCA segment are eliminated
upon consolidation.
Finance and Insurance, net
Within the Dealerships segment, we receive commissions from third-party lending and insurance institutions for arranging customer financing and from
the sale of vehicle service contracts, guaranteed asset protection debt cancellation, and other products, to end-users. In addition, we record commissions
received from our TCA segment related to the sale of TCA's various vehicle protection F&I products. TCA offers extended vehicle service contracts, prepaid
maintenance contracts, key replacement contracts, guaranteed asset protection contracts, paintless dent repair contracts, appearance protection contracts, tire
and wheel, and lease wear and tear contracts. In addition, TCA provides the required contractual liability insurance if needed. The majority of these service
contracts are sold through affiliated automobile dealerships. Finance and insurance commission revenue is recognized at the point of sale since our
performance obligation is to arrange financing or facilitating the sale of a third party's products or services to our customers.
The dealerships commission arrangements with TCA, third-party lenders and insurance administrators consists of fixed ("upfront") and variable
consideration. Variable consideration includes commission chargebacks ("chargebacks") in the event a contract is prepaid, defaulted upon, or terminated by
the end-user. The Company reserves for future chargebacks based on historical chargeback experience and the termination provisions of the applicable
contract, and these reserves are established in the same period that the related revenue is recognized. Commissions revenue and related reserves for future
chargebacks in connection with the sale of TCA F&I products by our dealerships, are eliminated in consolidation.
We also participate in future profits pursuant to retrospective commission arrangements, which meet the definition of variable consideration, for certain
insurance products associated with a third-party portfolio. The Company estimates the amount of variable consideration to be included in the transaction price
based on historical payment trends and further constrains the variable consideration such that it is probable that a significant reversal of previously recognized
revenue will not occur. In making these assessments the Company considers the likelihood and magnitude of a potential reversal of revenue and updates its
assessment when uncertainties associated with the constraint are removed.
Within our TCA segment, all revenue, other than investment and interest income, is the result of contracts with customers. Each contract is considered to
have a single performance obligation which extends over the life of the contract. Revenue is recognized ratably over the contract term based on earnings
factors that align with the performance obligation. We capitalize costs to obtain customer contracts, employee sales commissions, and amortize those costs
over the estimated life of the contract. Amortization of costs to obtain customer contracts is included in selling, general and administrative expenses. The
portion of commissions that are paid to affiliated dealerships are eliminated upon consolidation. Unearned premium reserves are established to cover the
unexpired portion of premiums written.
Deferred Revenue
We earn and recognize premium revenue related to the TCA segment over the period of the related service contract. Accordingly, we record deferred
revenue and ratably recognize revenue over the service contract period.
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Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserve
Losses and loss adjustment expense reserves represent management's best estimate of the ultimate net cost of all reported and unreported losses incurred
through December 31, 2024. The Company does not discount liabilities for unpaid losses or unpaid loss adjustment expense reserves. The reserves for unpaid
losses and loss adjustment expenses are estimated using individual case-basis valuation and statistical analysis. Those estimates are subject to the effects of
trends in loss severity and frequency. Although considerable variability is inherent in such estimates, management believes the reserves for losses and loss
adjustment expenses are adequate. The estimates are continually reviewed and adjusted as necessary as experience develops or new information becomes
known; such adjustments are included in income from operations.
Claims are counted when incidents that may result in a liability are reported and are based on policy coverage.
Internal Profit
Revenues and expenses associated with internal work performed by our parts and service departments on new and used vehicle inventory are eliminated
in consolidation. The gross profit earned by our parts and service departments for internal work performed is included as a reduction of parts and service cost
of sales on the accompanying consolidated statements of income upon the sale of the vehicle. The costs incurred by our new and used vehicle departments for
work performed by our parts and service departments is included in either new vehicle cost of sales or used vehicle cost of sales on the accompanying
consolidated statements of income, depending on the classification of the vehicle serviced. We eliminate the internal profit on vehicles that remain in
inventory at period end.
Intersegment Eliminations
TCA's vehicle protection products are sold through affiliated dealerships and the revenue from the related commissions are included in finance and
insurance, net revenues in the Dealerships segment before consolidation. The corresponding claims expense incurred and the amortization of deferred
acquisition costs is recorded as a cost of sales in the TCA segment. The Dealerships segment also provides vehicle repair and maintenance services to TCA
customers in connection with claims related to TCA's vehicle protection products. Revenues recorded by the Dealerships segment and the associated claims
expense recorded by the TCA segment are eliminated upon consolidation. Intersegment revenues and profits from contracts and services are eliminated in
consolidation. See Note 20 "Segment Information" for further details.
Share-Based Compensation
We record share-based compensation expense under the fair value method on a straight-line basis over the vesting period, unless the awards are subject to
performance conditions, in which case we recognize the expense over the requisite service period of each separate vesting tranche. In addition, we account for
the forfeiture of share-based awards as they occur.
Share Repurchases
Share repurchases may be made from time-to-time in open market transactions or through privately negotiated transactions under the authorization
approved by the Board of Directors. Periodically, the Company may retire repurchased shares of common stock previously held by the Company as treasury
stock. In accordance with our accounting policy, we allocate any excess share repurchase price over par value between additional paid-in capital, which is
limited to amounts initially recorded for the same issue, and retained earnings.
During the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, the Company repurchased 830,297, 1,316,167 and 1,635,030 shares and retired 830,297,
1,370,371 and 1,580,826 shares of our common stock under our share repurchase program, respectively. On May 15, 2024, the Company announced that its
Board of Directors approved an increase of $256.2 million in the Company's common share repurchase authorization to $400.0 million (the "New Share
Repurchase Authorization"). As of December 31, 2024, the Company had $275.9 million remaining on its share repurchase authorization. The share
repurchase authorization does not require the Company to repurchase any specific number of shares, and may be modified, suspended or terminated at any
time without further notice.
Earnings per Common Share
Basic earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted
earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average common shares and common share equivalents outstanding during
the period. For all periods presented, there were no adjustments to the numerator necessary to compute diluted earnings per share.
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Advertising
We expense costs of advertising as incurred and production costs when the advertising initially takes place, net of certain advertising credits and other
discounts received from certain automobile manufacturers. Advertising expense totaled $61.8 million, $47.5 million and $50.1 million for the years ended
December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, which was net of earned advertising credits of $40.7 million, $36.5 million and $35.5 million, respectively, and is
included in selling, general and administrative expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of income.
Income Taxes
We use the liability method to account for income taxes. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected future tax
consequences of differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis using currently enacted tax rates. The effect
on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period when the change is enacted. Deferred tax assets are reduced
by a valuation allowance when it is more likely than not that some portion or all the deferred tax assets will not be realized.
Assets Held for Sale and Liabilities Associated with Assets Held for Sale
Certain amounts have been classified as assets held for sale as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Assets
and liabilities classified as held for sale include assets and liabilities associated with pending dealership disposals, real estate we are actively marketing to sell,
and any liabilities, if applicable. Classification as held for sale begins on the date that we have met all of the criteria for classification as held for sale.
At the time of classifying assets as held for sale, we compare the carrying value of these assets to estimates of fair value to assess for impairment. We
compare the carrying value to estimates of fair value utilizing the assistance of third-party broker opinions of value and third-party desktop appraisals to assist
in our fair value estimates related to real estate properties.
Statements of Cash Flows
Borrowings and repayments of floor plan notes payable through our senior secured credit agreement with Bank of America, as administrative agent, and
the other agents and lenders party thereto (as amended, the "2023 Senior Credit Facility") and all floor plan notes payable relating to used vehicles (together
referred to as "Floor Plan Notes Payable—Non-Trade"), are classified as financing activities in the accompanying consolidated statements of cash flows, with
borrowings reflected separately from repayments. The net change in floor plan notes payable to a lender affiliated with the manufacturer from which we
purchase a particular new vehicle (collectively referred to as "Floor Plan Notes Payable—Trade") is classified as an operating activity in the accompanying
consolidated statements of cash flows. Borrowings of floor plan notes payable associated with inventory acquired in connection with all acquisitions and
repayments made in connection with all divestitures are classified as a financing activity. Cash flows related to floor plan notes payable included in operating
activities differ from cash flows related to floor plan notes payable included in financing activities only to the extent that the former are payable to a lender
affiliated with the manufacturer from which we purchased the related inventory, while the latter are payable to our 2023 Senior Credit Facility that includes
lenders affiliated with the manufacturers and lenders not affiliated with the manufacturers from which we purchased the related inventory. The majority of our
floor plan notes are payable to our 2023 Senior Credit Facility, with the exception of floor plan notes payable relating to the financing of new Ford and
Lincoln vehicles.
Loaner vehicles account for a significant portion of other current assets. We acquire loaner vehicles either with available cash or through borrowings from
either our manufacturer affiliated lenders or through our 2023 Senior Credit Facility. Loaner vehicles are initially used by our service department for a short
period of time (typically 6 to 12 months) before we seek to sell them. Therefore, we classify the acquisition of loaner vehicles in other current assets and the
borrowings and repayments of loaner vehicle notes payable in accounts payable and accrued liabilities in the accompanying consolidated statements of cash
flows. Loaner vehicles are depreciated over the service period to their estimated value. At the end of the loaner service period, loaner vehicles are transferred
from other current assets to used vehicle inventory.
Business and Credit Concentration Risk
Financial instruments, which potentially subject us to a concentration of credit risk, consist principally of cash deposits and investments. We maintain
cash balances at financial institutions with strong credit ratings. Generally, amounts maintained with these financial institutions are in excess of FDIC
insurance limits. In addition, we limit our exposure through the kind, quality and concentration of these investments. As of December 31, 2024, the Company
had total investments of $348.6 million.
We have substantial debt service obligations. As of December 31, 2024, we had total debt of $3.16 billion, which excludes floor plan notes payable, debt
issuance costs, and the debt premium on the 4.5% Senior Notes (the "4.5% Notes") and 4.75% Senior Notes (the "4.75% Notes") due 2028 and 2030,
respectively. In addition, we and our subsidiaries have the ability to
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obtain additional debt from time to time to finance acquisitions, real property purchases, capital expenditures, share repurchases or for other purposes,
although such borrowings are subject to the restrictions contained in the fourth amended and restated senior secured credit agreement with Bank of America,
N.A. ("Bank of America"), as administrative agent, and the other lenders party thereto (the "2023 Senior Credit Facility"), the indentures governing our 4.5%
Notes, 4.625% Notes, 4.75% Notes and 5.0% Notes (the "Indentures"), and our other debt instruments. We will have substantial debt service obligations,
consisting of required cash payments of principal and interest, for the foreseeable future.
We are subject to operating and financial restrictions and covenants in certain of our leases and in our debt instruments, including the 2023 Senior Credit
Facility, the Indentures, and the credit agreements covering our mortgage obligations. These agreements contain restrictions on, among other things, our
ability to incur additional indebtedness, to create liens or other encumbrances, and to make certain payments (including dividends and repurchases of our
shares and investments). These agreements may also require us to maintain compliance with certain financial and other ratios. Our failure to comply with any
of these covenants in the future would constitute a default under the relevant agreement, which would, depending on the relevant agreement, (i) entitle the
creditors under such agreement to terminate our ability to borrow under the relevant agreement and accelerate our obligations to repay outstanding
borrowings; (ii) require us to apply our available cash to repay these borrowings; (iii) entitle the creditors under such agreement to foreclose on the property
securing the relevant indebtedness; and/or (iv) prevent us from making debt service payments on certain of our other indebtedness, any of which would have a
material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. In many cases, a default under one of our debt or mortgage agreements
could trigger cross-default provisions in one or more of our other debt or mortgages.
A number of our dealerships are located on properties that we lease. Each of the leases governing such properties has certain covenants with which we
must comply. If we fail to comply with the covenants under our leases, the respective landlords could terminate the leases and seek damages from us.
Concentrations of credit risk with respect to contracts-in-transit and accounts receivable are limited primarily to automotive manufacturers and financial
institutions. Credit risk arising from receivables with commercial customers is minimal due to the large number of customers comprising our customer base.
A significant portion of our new vehicle sales are derived from a limited number of automotive manufacturers. For the year ended December 31, 2024,
manufacturers representing 5% or more of our revenues from new vehicle sales were as follows:
Manufacturer (Vehicle Brands):
% of Total
New Vehicle
Revenues
Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (Toyota and Lexus)
30 %
Ford Motor Company (Ford and Lincoln)
13 %
American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (Honda and Acura)
10 %
Stellantis N.V. (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram and Fiat)
9 %
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (Mercedes-Benz and Sprinter)
8 %
General Motors Company (Chevrolet, Buick and GMC)
8 %
Hyundai Motor North America (Hyundai and Genesis)
5 %
No other manufacturers individually accounted for more than 5% of our total new vehicle revenue for the year ended December 31, 2024.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
The Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2024-03, Disaggregation – Income Statement
Expenses, in November 2024, which requires additional disclosure of the nature of expenses included in the income statement. The new standard requires
disclosures about specific types of expenses included in the expense captions presented on the face of the income statement as well as disclosures about
selling expenses. The guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2026 and should be applied prospectively with the option of
retrospective application. We are evaluating the impact of this new guidance on our consolidated financial statements.
In December 2023, the FASB issued final guidance in ASU 2023-09, Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures, which primarily expands the disclosures
related to the effective tax rate reconciliation and income taxes paid. The guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024 and
should be applied prospectively with the option of retrospective
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application. We do not expect the adoption of this accounting standard to have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements, but it will require
certain additional disclosures.
In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting: Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures ("ASU 2023-07"), which
enhances the disclosures primarily around segment expenses. In addition, the amendments expand the scope of quarterly financial reporting by requiring
disclosure of both existing annual segment reporting disclosures and the expanded disclosures outlined in ASU 2023-07. The guidance should be applied
retrospectively and is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and for interim periods beginning after December 15, 2024. We adopted
this new guidance for the year ended December 31, 2024. See Note 20, "Segment Information".
2. REVENUE RECOGNITION
Disaggregation of Revenue
Revenue from contracts with customers consists of the following:
For the year ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
(In millions)
Revenue:
New vehicle
$
8,849.7
$
7,630.7 $
7,365.6
Used vehicle retail
4,605.9
4,017.5
4,828.8
Used vehicle wholesale
612.3
396.7
368.3
New and used vehicle
14,067.9
12,045.0
12,562.6
Sale of vehicle parts and accessories
516.2
496.3
510.2
Vehicle repair and maintenance services
1,838.5
1,585.3
1,564.1
Parts and services
2,354.7
2,081.5
2,074.2
Finance and insurance, net
766.0
676.2
797.0
Total revenue
$
17,188.6
$
14,802.7 $
15,433.8
Contract Assets
Changes in contract assets during the period are reflected in the table below. Contract assets related to vehicle repair and maintenance services are
transferred to receivables when a repair order is completed and invoiced to the customer. Certain incremental sales commissions payable to obtain an F&I
revenue contract with a customer have been capitalized and are amortized using the same pattern of recognition applicable to the associated F&I revenue
contract.
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Vehicle Repair and
Maintenance Services
Finance and
Insurance, net
Deferred Sales
Commissions
Total
(In millions)
Contract Assets, December 31, 2022
$
14.7
$
14.7
$
37.2
$
66.6
Transferred to receivables from contract assets recognized at the
beginning of the period
(14.7)
(14.7)
—
(29.4)
Amortization of costs incurred to obtain a contract with a
customer
—
—
(12.2)
(12.2)
Costs incurred to obtain a contract with a customer
—
—
43.3
43.3
Increases related to revenue recognized, inclusive of adjustments
to constraint, during the period
20.5
13.8
—
34.3
Contract Assets, December 31, 2023
$
20.5
$
13.8
$
68.4
$
102.7
Transferred to receivables from contract assets recognized at the
beginning of the period
(20.5)
(13.8)
—
(34.3)
Amortization of costs incurred to obtain a contract with a
customer
—
—
(19.5)
(19.5)
Costs incurred to obtain a contract with a customer
—
—
41.2
41.2
Increases related to revenue recognized, inclusive of adjustments
to constraint, during the period
17.8
12.8
—
30.5
Contract Assets, December 31, 2024
$
17.8
$
12.8
$
90.1
$
120.7
Contract Assets (current), December 31, 2024
$
17.8
$
12.8
$
24.2
$
54.7
Contract Assets (long-term), December 31, 2024
$
—
$
—
$
65.9
$
65.9
Deferred Revenue
The consolidated balance sheet reflects $766.0 million and $736.7 million in deferred revenue as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
Approximately $239.3 million and $227.9 million of deferred revenue at December 31, 2023 and 2022, was recorded in finance and insurance, net revenue in
the consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
3. ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES
Koons Acquisition
On December 11, 2023, we completed the acquisition of the Jim Koons Dealerships. The results of the Jim Koons Dealerships have been included in our
consolidated financial statements since that date. The Koons acquisition diversifies Asbury's geographic mix, with expansion in the greater Washington-
Baltimore region of the United States.
As a result of the Koons acquisition, we acquired 20 new vehicle dealerships, six collision centers and the real property related thereto, for a total
purchase price of approximately $1.50 billion, which includes $256.1 million of new vehicle floor plan financing and $100.9 million of assets held for sale
related to Koons Lexus of Wilmington. The purchase price was paid in cash.
The sources of the purchase consideration are as follows:
(In millions)
Cash
$
941.3
New vehicle floor plan facility
256.1
Used vehicle floor plan facility
307.1
Purchase price
$
1,504.5
Under the acquisition method of accounting, the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded at their estimated fair value
based on information currently available. The following table summarizes the amounts recorded based on final estimates of fair value:
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Summary of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed
(In millions)
Assets
Inventories, net
$
310.6
Other current assets
11.8
Assets held for sale
100.9
Total current assets
423.3
Property and equipment, net
417.6
Goodwill
272.4
Intangible franchise rights
401.0
Operating lease right-of-use assets
11.2
Total assets acquired
$
1,525.5
Liabilities
Operating lease liabilities
$
11.2
Other liabilities
9.7
Total liabilities assumed
20.9
Net assets acquired
$
1,504.5
The acquisition accounting is based upon the Company’s estimates of fair value. The estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed
and the related acquisition accounting are based on management’s estimates and assumptions, as well as other information compiled by management,
including the books and records of Koons. Measurement period adjustments recorded during the year ended December 31, 2024 and their related effects on
our consolidated statements of income were not material. Furthermore, we recorded a $26.7 million measurement period adjustment to reflect the fair value of
franchise rights acquired, with a corresponding increase to goodwill, within our consolidated balance sheet during the year ended December 31, 2024.
Approximately $401.0 million of the purchase price was assigned to the indefinite lived franchise rights intangible assets related to the dealer agreements
applicable to each new vehicle dealership. In addition, goodwill of $272.4 million was recognized and is attributable to the anticipated synergies that Asbury
expects to derive from the Koons acquisition as well as the acquired assembled workforce of the Koons dealerships.
The Company recorded $4.1 million of acquisition related costs during the year ended December 31, 2023. These costs are included in selling, general
and administrative in the consolidated statements of income. The Company did not incur acquisition related costs during the year ended December 31, 2024.
Goodwill and manufacturer franchise rights associated with our Dealerships segment acquisitions are deductible for federal and state income tax purposes
ratably over a 15-year period.
The Company's consolidated statements of income for the year ended December 31, 2024 included revenue and net income attributable to the Jim Koons
Dealerships of $2,805.5 million and $86.9 million, respectively.
The following represents the unaudited pro forma information as if the Koons acquisition had been included in the consolidated results of the Company
since January 1, 2022:
For the Year Ended December
31,
2023
2022
(In millions)
(Unaudited)
Pro forma revenue
$
17,540.4 $
18,516.1
Pro forma net income
$
660.8 $
1,092.9
The above pro forma financial information adjusts the revenue and net income related to the Koons acquisition primarily for (1) depreciation and interest
expense assuming that the fair value adjustments and indebtedness incurred in connection with the Koons acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2022 and (2)
the exclusion of Koons Lexus of Wilmington, which is classified as
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assets held for sale as of December 31, 2023. The pro forma net income for the year ended December 31, 2023 includes $117.2 million of asset impairments
recorded by the Company during the fourth quarter of 2023.
Other Acquisitions and Divestitures
On February 14, 2025, the Company, through one of its subsidiaries, entered into a Transaction Agreement with various entities that comprise the Herb
Chambers Dealerships. See Note 23 "Subsequent Event” for more information.
There were no other acquisitions during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022.
During the year ended December 31, 2024, we sold one Lexus franchise (one dealership location) in Wilmington, Delaware due to OEM requirements in
connection with the Koons acquisition, one Nissan franchise (one dealership location) in Denver, Colorado, one Nissan franchise (one dealership location) in
Atlanta, Georgia, one Chevrolet franchise (one dealership location) in Atlanta, Georgia and one Honda franchise (one dealership location) in Spokane,
Washington. The Company recorded a pre-tax gain totaling $8.6 million, which is presented in our accompanying consolidated statements of income as a gain
on dealership divestitures, net.
During the year ended December 31, 2023, we sold one franchise (one dealership location) in Austin, Texas. The Company recorded a pre-tax gain
totaling $13.5 million.
During the year ended December 31, 2022, we sold one franchise (one dealership location) in St. Louis, Missouri, three franchises (three dealership
locations) and one collision center in Denver, Colorado, two franchises (two dealership locations) in Spokane, Washington, one franchise (one dealership
location) in Albuquerque, New Mexico and 11 franchises (nine dealership locations) and two collision centers in North Carolina. The Company recorded a
pre-tax gain totaling $207.1 million.
4. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
Accounts receivable consisted of the following:
As of December 31,
2024
2023
(In millions)
Vehicle receivables
$
85.0
$
72.5
Manufacturer receivables
101.4
68.0
Other receivables
102.3
88.1
Total accounts receivable
288.6
228.6
Less—Allowance for credit losses
(3.2)
(2.6)
Accounts receivable, net
$
285.5
$
226.1
5. INVENTORIES
Inventories consisted of the following:
As of December 31,
2024
2023
(In millions)
New vehicles
$
1,450.6
$
1,252.5
Used vehicles
382.1
373.1
Parts and accessories
146.0
142.7
Total inventories, net (a)
$
1,978.8
$
1,768.3
____________________________
(a) Inventories, net as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, excluded $58.7 million and $84.5 million classified as assets held for sale, respectively.
The lower of cost and net realizable value reserves reduced total inventory cost by $9.7 million and $8.8 million, respectively as of December 31, 2024
and 2023. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, certain automobile manufacturer incentives reduced new vehicle inventory cost by $13.8 million and $8.3
million, respectively, and reduced new vehicle cost of sales for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 by $113.4 million, $94.1 million and
$91.5 million, respectively.
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6. ASSETS HELD FOR SALE
Assets and liabilities classified as held for sale include assets and liabilities associated with pending dealership disposals, and real estate not currently
used in our operations that we are actively marketing to sell.
A summary of assets held for sale and liabilities associated with assets held for sale is as follows:
As of December 31,
2024
2023
(In millions)
Assets:
Inventory
$
58.7
$
84.5
Loaners, net
1.5
4.5
Property and equipment, net
89.1
136.6
Operating lease right-of-use assets
1.9
2.1
Goodwill
—
26.1
Franchise rights
23.1
88.5
Total assets held for sale
174.4
342.2
Liabilities:
Current maturities of operating leases
0.2
0.2
Operating lease liabilities
1.7
1.9
Total liabilities associated with assets held for sale
1.9
2.1
Net assets held for sale
$
172.4
$
340.1
As of December 31, 2024, assets held for sale consisted of seven franchises (six dealership locations) in addition to one real estate property not currently
used in our operations.
As of December 31, 2023, assets held for sale consisted of 11 franchises (11 dealership locations) in addition to one real estate property not currently used
in our operations.
During the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company sold five franchises (five dealership locations) for a pre-tax gain totaling $8.6 million.
During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company sold one franchise (one dealership location) for a pre-tax gain totaling $13.5 million.
7. OTHER CURRENT ASSETS
Other current assets consisted of the following:
As of December 31,
2024
2023
(In millions)
Loaner vehicles
$
235.7
$
262.6
Contract assets (see Note 2)
54.7
53.8
Prepaid expenses
39.8
41.4
Prepaid taxes
9.7
18.4
Notes receivable
4.8
5.2
Deposits
3.4
4.5
Other
3.5
3.1
Other current assets
$
351.7
$
388.9
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8. INVESTMENTS
Our investment portfolio is primarily funded by product premiums from the sale of our TCA F&I products. The amortized cost, gross unrealized gains
and losses and estimated fair values of debt securities available-for-sale and other investments measured at net asset value are as follows:
As of December 31, 2024
Amortized Cost
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Fair Value
(In millions)
Short-term investments
$
14.4
$
—
$
—
$
14.4
U.S Treasury
2.6
—
—
2.6
Municipal
10.6
0.1
(0.1)
10.6
Corporate
152.0
0.8
(0.9)
151.9
Mortgage and other asset-backed securities
170.1
0.6
(1.7)
169.1
Total investments
$
349.8
$
1.6
$
(2.7)
$
348.6
As of December 31, 2023
Amortized Cost
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Fair Value
(In millions)
Short-term investments
$
6.3
$
—
$
(0.1)
$
6.2
U.S Treasury
13.6
0.1
(0.1)
13.5
Municipal
30.1
0.2
(0.2)
30.1
Corporate
131.5
1.6
(0.9)
132.2
Mortgage and other asset-backed securities
150.1
1.6
(0.9)
150.9
Total investments
$
331.6
$
3.5
$
(2.2)
$
332.9
As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company had $2.8 million and $2.5 million of accrued interest receivable, respectively, which is included in
other current assets on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company does not consider accrued interest receivable in the carrying amount of financial assets
held at amortized cost basis or in the allowance for credit losses.
A summary of amortized costs and fair value of investments by time to maturity, is as follows:
As of December 31, 2024
Amortized Costs
Fair Value
(In millions)
Due in 1 year or less
$
14.4
$
14.4
Due in 1-5 years
108.5
108.6
Due in 6-10 years
54.7
54.5
Due after 10 years
2.0
2.0
Total by maturity
179.6
179.5
Mortgage and other asset-backed securities
170.1
169.1
Total investment securities
$
349.8
$
348.6
During the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded $1.2 million gross gains and $0.6 million gross losses realized related to the sales of available-
for-sale debt securities carried at fair value.
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During the year ended December 31, 2023, we recorded $0.5 million gross gains and $1.5 million gross losses realized related to the sales of available-
for-sale debt securities carried at fair value. During the year ended December 31, 2023, we recorded $3.7 million gross gains and $0.9 million gross losses
realized related to the sales of equity securities carried at fair value.
During the year ended December 31, 2022, we recorded $0.1 million gross gains and $2.0 million gross losses realized related to the sales of available-
for-sale debt securities carried at fair value. During the year ended December 31, 2022, we recorded $10.1 million gross gains and $3.6 million gross losses
realized related to the sales of equity securities carried at fair value.
The following tables summarize the amount of unrealized losses, defined as the amount by which the amortized cost exceeds fair value, and the related
fair value of investments with unrealized losses. The investments were segregated into two categories: those that have been in a continuous unrealized loss
position for less than 12 months and those that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position of 12 or more months. The reference point for determining
how long an investment was in an unrealized loss position was December 31, 2024.
As of December 31, 2024
Less than 12 Months
Greater than 12 Months
Total
Fair Value
Unrealized
Losses
Fair Value
Unrealized
Losses
Fair Value
Unrealized
Losses
(In millions)
Short-term investments
$
0.3
$
—
$
3.9
$
—
$
4.1
$
—
U.S Treasury
1.1
—
1.4
—
2.5
—
Municipal
3.4
(0.1)
1.6
—
4.9
(0.1)
Corporate
64.3
(0.5)
26.6
(0.4)
90.9
(0.9)
Mortgage and other asset-backed securities
78.5
(1.0)
26.4
(0.7)
104.9
(1.7)
Total debt securities
$
147.5
$
(1.6)
$
59.8
$
(1.2)
$
207.3
$
(2.7)
As of December 31, 2023
Less than 12 Months
Greater than 12 Months
Total
Fair Value
Unrealized
Losses
Fair Value
Unrealized
Losses
Fair Value
Unrealized
Losses
(In millions)
Short-term investments
$
—
$
—
$
6.0
$
(0.1)
$
6.0
$
(0.1)
U.S Treasury
3.4
(0.1)
5.0
(0.1)
8.5
(0.1)
Municipal
6.4
(0.1)
10.4
(0.1)
16.8
(0.2)
Corporate
11.4
(0.1)
48.0
(0.8)
59.4
(0.9)
Mortgage and other asset-backed securities
29.8
(0.4)
33.1
(0.5)
62.9
(0.9)
Total debt securities
$
51.1
$
(0.7)
$
102.5
$
(1.6)
$
153.6
$
(2.2)
The credit loss model applicable to the available-for-sale debt securities, requires the recognition of credit losses through an allowance account, which are
recognized once securities become impaired. The Company reviews the investment securities portfolio at the security level on a quarterly basis for potential
credit losses, which takes into consideration numerous factors as described in Note 1. The decline in fair value identified in the tables above are a result of
widening market spreads and not a result of credit quality. Additionally, the Company has determined it has both the intent and ability to hold these
investments until the market price recovers or until maturity and does not believe it will be required to sell the securities before maturity. Accordingly, no
credit losses were recognized on these securities during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022.
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9. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET
Property and equipment, net consisted of the following:
As of December 31,
2024
2023
(In millions)
Land
$
1,021.7
$
868.3
Buildings and leasehold improvements
1,544.3
1,465.2
Machinery and equipment
188.4
171.9
Furniture and fixtures
105.5
97.8
Company vehicles
17.3
16.5
Construction in progress
142.6
92.0
Gross property and equipment
3,019.7
2,711.7
Less—Accumulated depreciation
(469.1)
(396.1)
Property and equipment, net (a)
$
2,550.7
$
2,315.7
______________________________
(a) Property and equipment, net as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, excluded $89.1 million and $136.6 million, respectively classified as assets held for sale.
In addition, property and equipment, net as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 included finance leases of $8.4 million and $8.4 million, respectively.
Depreciation expense was $75.0 million, $67.7 million, and $69.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
10. GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE FRANCHISE RIGHTS
Our acquisitions have resulted in the recording of goodwill and intangible franchise rights. Goodwill is an asset representing operational synergies and
future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized. Intangible
franchise rights is an asset representing our rights under franchise agreements with vehicle manufacturers.
In connection with the Koons acquisition, we recorded goodwill of $272.4 million and franchise rights of $401.0 million. Goodwill related to the Koons
acquisition was allocated to the Dealerships segment.
The changes in goodwill and intangible franchise rights for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 are as follows:
Goodwill
Dealerships
TCA
Total
(In millions)
Balance as of December 31, 2022 (a)
$
1,246.8 $
536.6 $
1,783.4
Reclassified from assets held for sale
0.9
—
0.9
Acquisitions
240.8
—
240.8
Divestitures
(0.9)
—
(0.9)
Impairments
(14.9)
—
(14.9)
Reclassified to assets held for sale
(0.3)
—
(0.3)
Balance as of December 31, 2023 (a)
$
1,472.4 $
536.6 $
2,009.0
Reclassified from assets held for sale
29.6
—
29.6
Acquisitions
40.9
—
40.9
Divestitures
(30.1)
—
(30.1)
Impairments
(1.3)
—
(1.3)
Reclassified to assets held for sale
(3.5)
—
(3.5)
Balance as of December 31, 2024 (a)
$
1,508.1 $
536.6 $
2,044.7
_____________________________
(a) Net of accumulated impairment losses of $537.7 million recorded prior to the year ended December 31, 2022.
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Intangible Franchise
Rights
(In millions)
Balance as of December 31, 2022
$
1,800.1
Acquisitions - measurement-period adjustments
429.0
Impairments
(102.3)
Reclassified to assets held for sale
(31.0)
Balance as of December 31, 2023
$
2,095.8
Reclassified from assets held for sale
71.9
Acquisitions - measurement-period adjustments
(26.7)
Divestitures
(74.6)
Impairments
(148.2)
Reclassified to assets held for sale
(6.5)
Balance as of December 31, 2024
$
1,911.7
Our quantitative impairment tests for franchise rights include a comparison of the estimated fair value to the carrying value of each franchise right asset.
The Company estimates fair value by using a discounted cash flow model (income approach) based on market participant assumptions related to the cash
flows directly attributable to the franchise. These assumptions include year-over-year and terminal growth rates, weighted average cost of capital, future gross
margins, and future selling, general and administrative expenses.
Based on the underperformance of certain stores, we performed quantitative impairment tests in the second quarter of 2024 and as of our annual
impairment testing date, October 1, 2024. The results of the quantitative impairment testing identified that the carrying values of certain of our franchise
rights intangible assets exceeded their fair value by $134.1 million and $14.1 million and the related impairment charges were recorded during the three
months ended June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2024, respectively. In total, we recognized a $148.2 million pre-tax non-cash impairment charge related to our
franchise rights intangible assets during the year ended December 31, 2024.
Based on the underperformance of certain stores, limited primarily to two brands, along with an increase in discount rates, we performed quantitative
impairment tests of franchise rights for certain stores in our Dealerships segment as of October 1, 2023. The results of the quantitative impairment testing
identified that the carrying values of certain of our franchise rights intangible assets exceeded their fair value. As a result, we recognized a $73.1 million pre-
tax non-cash impairment charge related to our franchise rights intangible assets during the year ended December 31, 2023.
We also performed qualitative impairment assessments on the remaining franchise rights as of October 1, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The results of our
qualitative impairment assessments on the remaining franchise rights indicated that the fair values of the franchise rights related to those dealerships more
likely than not exceeded their carrying values.
Additionally, in connection with changes in reporting units in our Dealerships segment, we performed qualitative and quantitative impairment tests of
goodwill for the affected reporting units as of October 1, 2024 and 2023, both before and after the change in reporting units. Lastly, we performed an interim
quantitative impairment test of goodwill for two reporting units in the second quarter of 2024.
The quantitative impairment tests of goodwill included a comparison of the estimated fair value to the carrying value of the reporting unit. The Company
estimates fair value by using a discounted cash flow model (income approach) based on market participant assumptions. These assumptions include year-
over-year and terminal growth rates, weighted average cost of capital, future gross margins, and future selling, general and administrative expenses. The
results of our quantitative goodwill impairment tests during the second quarter of 2024 and as of October 1, 2024 and 2023 related to certain reporting units
indicated that the fair value of these reporting units exceeded their carrying values.
We performed qualitative impairment assessments on the remaining reporting units as of October 1, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The results of our
qualitative impairment assessments of goodwill related to the remaining reporting units indicated that the fair values of the reporting units more likely than
not exceeded their carrying values.
We also recorded a goodwill impairment charge of $1.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2024 related to one dealership that met the assets
held for sale criteria in June 2024. The quantitative impairment test of the disposal group included a comparison of the estimated fair value to the carrying
value of the disposal group less cost to sell.
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In December 2023, certain dealerships met the held for sale criteria and the assets and liabilities associated with these dealerships were reclassified as
assets held for sale and liabilities associated with assets held for sale in our consolidated balance sheets. As a result, we evaluated the disposal groups to
ensure their recording at the lower of their carrying value or fair value less costs to sell. The quantitative impairment tests of each disposal group included a
comparison of the estimated fair value to the carrying value of the disposal group less costs to sell. The Company determined the estimated fair value of each
disposal group based on the estimated sales proceeds less cost to sell. As a result of this analysis, we recorded asset impairment charges of $44.1 million in
2023. These asset impairment charges are reflected in asset impairments in our consolidated statements of income. Since the resulting impairment charges and
the decision to dispose of these dealerships represented a triggering event for goodwill, we performed quantitative impairment tests of goodwill for the
affected reporting units in December 2023. The results of our quantitative goodwill impairment tests for the affected reporting units indicated that the fair
value of these reporting units exceeded their carrying values.
In total, we recognized asset impairments of $149.5 million and $117.2 million during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. These
asset impairment charges are reflected in asset impairments in our consolidated statements of income.
11. FLOOR PLAN NOTES PAYABLE—TRADE
We consider floor plan notes payable to a party that is affiliated with the entity from which we purchase our new vehicle inventory as floor plan notes
payable—trade on our consolidated balance sheets. Floor plan notes payable—trade, net consisted of the following:
As of December 31,
2024
2023
(In millions)
Floor plan notes payable—trade
$
350.9
$
245.6
Floor plan notes payable offset account
(1.0)
(50.5)
Total floor plan notes payable—trade, net
$
349.9
$
195.1
We have a floor plan facility with Ford Motor Credit Company ("Ford Credit") to purchase new Ford and Lincoln vehicle inventory. Our floor plan facility
with Ford Credit was amended in July 2020 and can be terminated by either the Company or Ford Credit with a 30-day notice period.
We have established a floor plan notes payable offset account with Ford Credit that allows us to transfer cash to the account as an offset to our outstanding
floor plan notes payable—trade. These transfers reduce the amount of outstanding new vehicle floor plan notes payable that would otherwise accrue interest,
while retaining the ability to transfer amounts from the offset account into our operating cash accounts within one to two days. As a result of using our floor
plan offset account, we experienced a reduction in floor plan interest expense in our consolidated statements of income. The representations and covenants
contained in the agreement governing our floor plan facility with Ford Credit are customary for financing transactions of this nature. Further, the agreement
governing our floor plan facility with Ford Credit also provides for events of default that are customary for financing transactions of this nature, including
cross-defaults to other material indebtedness. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, the Company could be required to immediately repay all
outstanding amounts under our floor plan facility with Ford Credit.
12. FLOOR PLAN NOTES PAYABLE—NON-TRADE
We consider floor plan notes payable to a party that is not affiliated with the entity from which we purchase our new vehicle inventory as floor plan notes
payable—non-trade on our consolidated balance sheets. Floor plan notes payable—non-trade, net consisted of the following:
As of December 31,
2024
2023
(In millions)
Floor plan notes payable—new non-trade
$
1,359.8
$
1,328.1
Floor plan notes payable—used non-trade
100.7
307.1
Floor plan notes payable offset account
(115.7)
(44.7)
Total floor plan notes payable—non-trade, net
$
1,344.8
$
1,590.6
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2023 Senior Credit Facility
On October 20, 2023, the Company and certain of its subsidiaries entered into a fourth amended and restated credit agreement with Bank of America,
N.A. ("Bank of America"), as administrative agent, and the other lenders party thereto (the "2023 Senior Credit Facility"). The 2023 Senior Credit Facility
amended and restated the Company’s pre-existing third amended and restated credit agreement, dated as of September 25, 2019, among the Company, certain
of its subsidiaries, Bank of America, as administrative agent, and the other lenders party thereto.
The 2023 Senior Credit Facility provides for the following, in each case subject to limitations on availability as set forth therein:
•
$500.0 million revolving credit facility (the "Revolving Credit Facility");
•
$1.93 billion new vehicle revolving floorplan facility (the "New Vehicle Floorplan Facility"); and
•
$375.0 million used vehicle revolving floorplan facility (the "Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility").
Proceeds from borrowings under the 2023 Senior Credit Facility will be used, among other things, (i) to finance the purchase of new and used vehicles by
the Company and certain of its subsidiaries, (ii) for working capital needs of the Company and certain of its subsidiaries, and (iii) for other general corporate
purposes of the Company and certain of its subsidiaries.
Subject to compliance with certain conditions, the 2023 Senior Credit Facility provides that we have the ability, at our option and subject to the receipt of
additional commitments from existing or new lenders, to increase the size of the facilities by up to $750.0 million in the aggregate.
We have the ability to convert a portion of our availability under the Revolving Credit Facility to the New Vehicle Floor Plan Facility or the Used Vehicle
Floor Plan Facility. The maximum amount we are allowed to convert is determined based on our aggregate revolving commitment under the Revolving Credit
Facility, less $50.0 million. In addition, we are able to convert any amounts moved to the New Vehicle Floor Plan Facility or Used Vehicle Floor Plan Facility
back to the Revolving Credit Facility.
In connection with the New Vehicle Floor Plan Facility, we continue to maintain an offset account with Bank of America that allows us to transfer cash as
an offset to floor plan notes payable. These transfers reduce the amount of outstanding new vehicle floor plan notes payable that would otherwise accrue
interest, while retaining the ability to transfer amounts from the offset account into our operating cash accounts within one to two days. As a result of the use
of our floor plan offset account, we experienced a reduction in floor plan interest expense in our consolidated statements of income.
Borrowings outstanding under the 2023 Senior Credit Facility bear interest, at the option of the Company, based on Daily Simple SOFR (as defined in the
2023 Senior Credit Facility) or the Base Rate, in each case plus an Applicable Rate. The Base Rate is the highest of (i) the Federal Funds Rate (as defined in
the 2023 Senior Credit Agreement) plus 0.50%, (ii) the Bank of America prime rate, and (iii) Daily Simple SOFR plus 1.00% and (iv) 1.00%. Applicable
Rate means with respect to the Revolving Credit Facility, a range from 1.00% to 2.00% for Daily Simple SOFR loans and 0.15% to 1.00% for Base Rate
loans, in each case based on the Company's consolidated total lease adjusted leverage ratio. Borrowings under the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility bear
interest, at the option of the Company, based on Daily Simple SOFR plus 1.10%, or the Base Rate plus 0.10%. Borrowings under the Used Vehicle Floorplan
Facility bear interest, at the option of the Company, based on Daily Simple SOFR plus 1.40% or the Base Rate plus 0.40%.
In addition to the payment of interest on borrowings outstanding under the 2023 Senior Credit Facility, we are required to pay a quarterly commitment fee
on total unused commitments thereunder. The fee for unused commitments under the Revolving Credit Facility is between 0.15% and 0.40% per year, based
on the Company's total lease adjusted leverage ratio, and the fee for unused commitments under the New Vehicle Facility Floor Plan and the Used Vehicle
Facility Floor Plan Facility is 0.15% per year.
The 2023 Senior Credit Facility matures, and all amounts outstanding thereunder will be due and payable, on October 20, 2028.
The representations and covenants contained in the 2023 Senior Credit Agreement are customary for financing transactions of this nature, including,
among others, a requirement to comply with a minimum consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio and maximum consolidated total lease adjusted leverage
ratio, in each case as set out in the 2023 Senior Credit Agreement. In addition, certain other covenants could restrict the Company's ability to incur additional
debt, pay dividends or acquire or dispose of assets.
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The 2023 Senior Credit Agreement also provides for events of default that are customary for financing transactions of this nature, including cross-defaults
to other material indebtedness. In certain instances, an event of default under either the Revolving Credit Facility or the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility could
be, or result in, an event of default under the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility, and vice versa. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, the Company could
be required to immediately repay all amounts outstanding under the applicable facility.
See the "Representations and Covenants" section below under our "Long-Term Debt" footnote for a description of the representations, covenants and
events of default contained in the 2023 Senior Credit Facility.
In addition to our new and used vehicle floor plan facilities, we have loaner vehicle floor plan facilities with Bank of America and certain original
equipment manufacturers ("OEMs"). Loaner vehicles notes payable related to Bank of America was $56.7 million as of December 31, 2024 and
$127.2 million as of December 31, 2023. Loaner vehicles notes payable related to OEMs as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 were $161.5 million and
$111.9 million, respectively.
13. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUED LIABILITIES
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities consisted of the following:
As of December 31,
2024
2023
(In millions)
Loaner vehicles notes payable
$
218.1
$
239.1
Accounts payable
169.1
155.6
Taxes payable
82.1
74.9
Accrued compensation and benefits
80.5
62.7
Accrued interest
45.5
46.6
Accrued insurance
30.4
28.4
Customer deposits
25.2
30.2
Accrued finance and insurance chargebacks
23.2
24.7
Accrued licenses and regulatory fees
21.0
16.7
Unearned premium
14.0
14.1
Customer we owe liabilities
7.5
7.3
Accrued advertising
6.1
6.9
Acquisition related liabilities
0.2
6.4
Other
38.4
34.4
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
$
761.4
$
748.1
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14. DEBT
Long-term debt consisted of the following:
As of December 31,
2024
2023
(In millions)
4.50% Senior Notes due 2028
$
405.0
$
405.0
4.625% Senior Notes due 2029
800.0
800.0
4.75% Senior Notes due 2030
445.0
445.0
5.00% Senior Notes due 2032
600.0
600.0
Mortgage notes payable bearing interest at fixed rates
29.6
31.9
2021 Real Estate Facility
579.9
614.4
2021 BofA Real Estate Facility
158.6
165.9
2018 Bank of America Facility
37.9
50.3
2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility
62.2
72.0
2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility
32.0
37.2
Finance lease liability
8.4
8.4
Total debt outstanding
3,158.5
3,230.1
Add—unamortized premium on 4.50% Senior Notes due 2028
0.5
0.6
Add—unamortized premium on 4.75% Senior Notes due 2030
1.1
1.3
Less—debt issuance costs
(21.5)
(25.9)
Long-term debt, including current portion
3,138.6
3,206.2
Less—current portion, net of debt issuance costs
(114.7)
(84.9)
Long-term debt
$
3,023.9
$
3,121.2
The aggregate maturities of long-term debt as of December 31, 2024 are as follows (in millions):
2025
$
119.1
2026
555.5
2027
15.1
2028
467.4
2029
810.4
Thereafter
1,191.1
Total maturities of long-term debt
$
3,158.5
Senior Notes issued in 2021
In connection with the LHM acquisition, on November 19, 2021, the Company completed its offering of $800 million aggregate principal amount of
4.625% senior notes due 2029 (the "2029 Notes") and $600 million aggregate principal amount of 5.000% senior notes due 2032 (the "2032 Notes").
The Company paid lender fees of $17.5 million in conjunction with the offering of the 2029 Notes and 2032 Notes and incurred additional debt issuance
costs of $4.0 million.
The lender fees and other debt issuance costs incurred are being amortized over the terms of the 2029 and 2032 Notes using the effective interest method.
The 2029 Notes will mature on November 15, 2029. If we sell certain of our assets or experience specific kinds of changes of control, we must offer to
repurchase the 2029 Notes.
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The 2032 Notes mature on February 15, 2032. We may redeem some or all of the 2032 Notes at any time on and after November 15, 2026 at redemption
prices specified in the 2032 Notes Indenture. Prior to November 15, 2026, we may also redeem up to 40% of the aggregate principal amount of the 2032
Notes using the proceeds from certain equity offerings at a redemption price of 105.000% of their principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest to, if any,
but not including the redemption date. In addition, we may redeem some or all of the 2032 Notes at any time prior to November 15, 2026 at a price equal to
100% of the principal amount thereof plus a make-whole premium set forth in the 2032 Notes Indenture, and accrued and unpaid interest, if any. If we sell
certain of our assets or experience specific kinds of changes of control, we must offer to repurchase the 2032 Notes.
We are a holding company with no independent assets or operations. For all relevant periods presented, our 2029 Notes and 2032 Notes have been fully
and unconditionally guaranteed, on a joint and several basis, by substantially all of our subsidiaries other than Landcar Administration Company, Landcar
Agency, Inc., and Landcar Casualty Company (collectively, the "TCA Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries").
Senior Notes issued in 2020
In connection with the proposed acquisition of the Park Place dealerships announced in December 2019 ("2019 Acquisition"), on February 19, 2020, the
Company completed its offering of senior unsecured notes (the "February 2020 Offering"), consisting of $525.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4.50%
Senior Notes due 2028 (the "Existing 2028 Notes") and together with the Additional 2028 Notes ((as defined below), the "2028 Notes")
and $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4.75% Senior Notes due 2030 (the "Existing 2030 Notes" and, together with the Existing 2028 Notes, the
"Existing Notes") and together with the Additional 2030 Notes ((as defined below), the "2030 Notes"). The Company paid lender fees of $6.8 million in
conjunction with the February 2020 Offering and incurred additional debt issuance costs of $3.1 million.
As a result of the termination of the 2019 Acquisition, the Company delivered a notice of special mandatory redemption to holders of its Existing 2028
Notes and Existing 2030 Notes pursuant to which it would redeem on a pro rata basis (1) $245.0 million of the Existing 2028 Notes and (2) $280.0 million of
the 2030 Existing Notes, in each case, at 100% of the respective principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest to but excluding, the special mandatory
redemption date. On March 30, 2020, the Company completed the redemption.
In September 2020, following the consummation of the Park Place acquisition, the Company completed an issuance of $250.0 million aggregate principal
amount of additional senior unsecured notes (the "September 2020 Offering") consisting of $125.0 million aggregate principal amount of additional 4.50%
Senior Notes due 2028 (the "Additional 2028 Notes") at a price of 101.00% of par, plus accrued interest from September 1, 2020, and $125.0 million
aggregate principal amount of additional 4.75% Senior Notes due 2030 (the "Additional 2030 Notes" and together with the Additional 2028 Notes, the
"Additional Notes") at a price of 101.75% of par, plus accrued interest from September 1, 2020. After deducting the initial purchasers' discounts of
$2.8 million, we received net proceeds of approximately $250.6 million from the September 2020 Offering. The $3.5 million premium paid by the initial
purchasers of the Additional Notes was recorded as a component of long-term debt on our consolidated balance sheet and is being amortized as a reduction of
interest expense over the remaining term of the Additional Notes. The proceeds of the September 2020 Offering were used to redeem certain seller notes
issued in connection with the Park Place acquisition and repay approximately $50.0 million in aggregate principal amount outstanding under our Revolving
Credit Facility.
The lender fees and other debt issuance costs incurred are being amortized over the terms of the Notes using the effective interest method.
The 2028 Notes and 2030 Notes mature on March 1, 2028 and March 1, 2030, respectively. Interest is payable semiannually, on March 1 and September 1
of each year. The February 2020 Offering, together with additional borrowings and cash on hand, was incurred to (i) fund the acquisition of substantially all
of the assets of Park Place, (ii) redeem all of our outstanding $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of the 6.0% Notes (the "6.0% Notes") and (iii) pay
fees and expenses in connection with the foregoing.
The remaining outstanding 2028 Notes and 2030 Notes are subject to customary covenants, events of default and optional redemption provisions. In
addition, the remaining outstanding 2028 Notes and 2030 Notes were required to be registered under the Securities Act of 1933 within 270 days of the closing
date for the offering. The Company completed the registration of the 2028 Notes and 2030 Notes in October 2020.
We are a holding company with no independent assets or operations. For all relevant periods presented, our 2028 Notes and 2030 Notes have been fully
and unconditionally guaranteed, on a joint and several basis, by substantially all of our subsidiaries other than the TCA Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries.
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Mortgage Financings
We have multiple mortgage agreements with finance companies affiliated with our vehicle manufacturers ("captive mortgages"). During the year ended
December 31, 2024, we modified the captive mortgages to extend the payment term and maturity of the captive mortgages to August 2034. In addition, the
interest rate was amended to 5.8% over the revised term. As of December 31, 2024, and 2023, we had total mortgage notes payable outstanding of $29.6
million and $31.9 million, respectively, that are collateralized by the associated real estate, which excludes amounts classified as liabilities associated with
assets held for sale.
2021 Real Estate Facility
On December 17, 2021, we entered into a real estate term loan credit agreement with Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent and the various
financial institutions party thereto, as lenders, which provides for term loans in an aggregate amount equal to $689.7 million (the "2021 Real Estate Facility").
The Company used the proceeds from these borrowings to finance the purchase of the real property in connection with the LHM acquisition as well as other
acquisitions and unencumbered real property.
Term loans under the 2021 Real Estate Facility bear interest, at our option, based on (1) Daily Simple SOFR plus 1.55% - 1.95% per annum (as
determined by the consolidated total lease adjusted leverage ratio), or (2) the Base Rate (as described below) plus 0.55% - 0.95% per annum (as determined
by the consolidated total lease adjusted leverage ratio). The Base Rate is the highest of (i) the Federal Funds rate plus 0.50%, (ii) the Bank of America prime
rate, (iii) the Daily Simple SOFR plus 1.0% and (iv) 1.00%. We will be required to make 20 consecutive quarterly principal payments of 1.25% of the initial
amount of each loan, with a balloon repayment of the outstanding principal amount of loans due on the maturity date. The 2021 Real Estate Facility matures
five years from the initial funding date. Borrowings under the 2021 Real Estate Facility are guaranteed by us, and are collateralized by first priority liens,
subject to certain permitted exceptions, on all of the real property financed thereunder.
As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, we had $579.9 million and $614.4 million, respectively, in term loans outstanding under the 2021 Real Estate
Facility.
2021 BofA Real Estate Facility
On May 25, 2022, we entered into the second amendment to the credit agreement to, among other things, revise the benchmark interest rate payable on
term loans under our 2021 BofA Real Estate Facility. Interest is payable, at our option, based on (1) SOFR plus 0.10%, plus 1.65% per annum or (2) the Base
Rate plus 0.65% per annum. The Base Rate is the highest of (i) the Federal Funds rate plus 0.50%, (ii) the Bank of America prime rate, (iii) SOFR plus
0.10%, plus 1.00%, and (iv) 1.00%.
On May 20, 2021, the Company and certain of its subsidiaries borrowed $184.4 million under a real estate term loan credit agreement, dated as of May
10, 2021 (the "2021 BofA Real Estate Credit Agreement"), by and among the Company and certain of its subsidiaries, Bank of America, N.A., as
administrative agent and the various financial institutions party thereto, as lenders, which provides for term loans in an aggregate amount equal to
$184.4 million, subject to customary terms and conditions (the "2021 BofA Real Estate Facility"). The Company used the proceeds from these borrowings to
finance the exercise of its option to purchase certain of the leased real property under the definitive agreements entered into in connection with the acquisition
of the Park Place Dealerships. The Company completed the purchase of the leased real property on May 20, 2021.
We are required to make 39 consecutive quarterly principal payments of 1.00% of the initial amount of each loan, with a balloon repayment of the
outstanding principal amount of loans due on the maturity date. The 2021 BofA Real Estate Facility matures ten years from the initial funding date.
Borrowings under the 2021 BofA Real Estate Facility are guaranteed by us and each of our operating dealership subsidiaries that leased the real estate now
financed under the 2021 BofA Real Estate Facility, and are collateralized by first priority liens, subject to certain permitted exceptions, on all of the real
property financed thereunder.
The representations and covenants in the 2021 BofA Real Estate Facility are customary for financing transactions of this nature, including, among others,
a requirement to comply with a minimum consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio and maximum consolidated total lease adjusted leverage ratio, in each case
as set out in the 2021 BofA Real Estate Facility. In addition, certain other covenants could restrict our ability to incur additional debt, pay dividends or acquire
or dispose of assets. The 2021 BofA Real Estate Facility also provides for events of default that are customary for financing transactions of this nature,
including cross-defaults to other material indebtedness. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, we could be required by the 2021 BofA Real Estate
Facility to immediately repay all amounts outstanding thereunder.
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As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, we had $158.6 million and $165.9 million, respectively, in term loans outstanding under the 2021 BofA Real Estate
Facility.
2018 BofA Real Estate Facility
On May 25, 2022, we entered into the third amendment to the credit agreement to revise the benchmark interest rate payable on term loans under our 2018
BofA Real Estate Facility. Interest is payable, at our option, based on SOFR plus 0.10%, plus 1.50% or the Base Rate plus 0.50%. The Base Rate is the
highest of (i) the Federal Funds rate plus 0.50%, (ii) the Bank of America prime rate, (iii) SOFR plus 0.10%, plus 1.00%, and (iv) 1.00%.
On November 13, 2018, we entered into a real estate term loan credit agreement (as amended, restated or supplemented from time to time, the "2018
BofA Real Estate Credit Agreement") with Bank of America, as lender, providing for term loans in an aggregate amount not to exceed $128.1 million, subject
to customary terms and conditions (the "2018 BofA Real Estate Facility"). Our right to make draws under the 2018 BofA Real Estate Facility terminated on
November 13, 2019. We are required to make quarterly principal payments of 1.25% of the initial amount of each loan on a twenty-year repayment schedule,
with a balloon repayment of the outstanding principal amount of loans due on November 13, 2025. Borrowings under the 2018 BofA Real Estate Facility are
guaranteed by each of our operating dealership subsidiaries whose real estate is financed under the 2018 BofA Real Estate Facility, and are collateralized by
first priority liens, subject to certain permitted exceptions, on all of the real property financed thereunder.
As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, we had $37.9 million and $50.3 million, respectively, in term loans outstanding under the 2018 BofA Real Estate
Facility, which excludes amounts classified as liabilities associated with assets held for sale.
2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility
On June 1, 2022, certain of our subsidiaries entered into the second amendment to the master loan agreement that revised interest payable from a LIBOR
reference rate to SOFR plus 0.10%, plus an applicable margin based on a pricing grid ranging from 1.50% to 1.85% per annum based on our consolidated
total lease adjusted leverage ratio.
On November 16, 2018, certain of our subsidiaries entered into a master loan agreement (the "2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan Agreement" and, together
with the 2013 BofA Real Estate Credit Agreement, the 2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Agreement and the 2018 BofA Real Estate Agreement, the "Existing
Real Estate Credit Agreements") with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as lender, which provides for term loans to certain of our subsidiaries that are
borrowers under the Wells Fargo Master Loan Agreement in an aggregate amount not to exceed $100.0 million (the "Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility"),
subject to customary terms and conditions (the "2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility"). Our right to make draws under the 2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan
Facility terminated on June 30, 2020. We are required to make quarterly principal payments with respect to the initial amount of each loan in 108 equal
monthly principal payments based on a hypothetical nineteen-year amortization schedule, with a balloon repayment of the outstanding principal amount of
loans due on December 1, 2028. Borrowings under the 2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility can be voluntarily prepaid in whole or in part any time without
premium or penalty. Borrowings under the 2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility are guaranteed by us pursuant to an unconditional guaranty, and all of the
real property financed by any of our operating dealership subsidiaries under the 2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility is collateralized by first priority liens,
subject to certain permitted exceptions.
As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, we had $62.2 million and $72.0 million, respectively, outstanding borrowings under the 2018 Wells Fargo Master
Loan Facility.
2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility
On June 1, 2022, certain of our subsidiaries entered into the second amendment to the master loan agreement that revised interest payable from a LIBOR
reference rate to SOFR plus 0.10%, plus 1.85% per annum.
On February 3, 2015, certain of our subsidiaries entered into an amended and restated master loan agreement (as amended, restated or supplemented from
time to time, the "2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Agreement") with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association ("Wells Fargo"), as lender, which provides form
term loans to certain of our subsidiaries that are borrowers under the 2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Agreement in an aggregate amount not to exceed $100.0
million (the "2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility"). Our right to make draws under the 2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility terminated on February 1,
2016. We are required to make quarterly principal payments with respect to the initial amount of each loan in 108 equal monthly principal payments based on
a hypothetical nineteen-year amortization schedule, with a balloon repayment of the outstanding principal amount of loans due on February 1, 2025. On
February 21, 2025, the agreement was modified and the maturity date was extended to June 1, 2025. Borrowings under the 2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan
Facility can be voluntarily prepaid in whole or in part any time without premium or penalty. Borrowings under the 2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility are
guaranteed by us pursuant to an unconditional guaranty, and all of the real property financed by any of our operating
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dealership subsidiaries under the 2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility is collateralized by first priority liens, subject to certain permitted exceptions.
As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, we had $32.0 million and $37.2 million, respectively, outstanding under the 2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility.
2013 BofA Real Estate Facility
On May 25, 2022, we entered into the third amendment to the credit agreement to revise the benchmark interest rate payable on term loans under our 2013
BofA Real Estate Facility. Interest is payable, at our option, based on SOFR plus 0.10%, plus 1.50% or the Base Rate plus 0.50%. The Base Rate is the
highest of (i) the Federal Funds rate plus 0.50%, (ii) the Bank of America prime rate, (iii) SOFR plus 0.10%, plus 1.00%, and (iv) 1.00%. Our right to make
draws under the 2013 BofA Real Estate Facility terminated on December 26, 2013.
On September 26, 2013, we entered into a real estate term loan credit agreement (the "2013 BofA Real Estate Credit Agreement") with Bank of America,
N.A. ("Bank of America"), as lender, providing for term loans in an aggregate amount not to exceed $75.0 million, subject to customary terms and conditions
(the "2013 BofA Real Estate Facility"). Our right to make draws under the 2013 BofA Real Estate Facility terminated on December 26, 2013. In June 2023,
the Company prepaid the aggregate principal amounts remaining under the 2013 BofA Real Estate Facility for an aggregate amount of approximately
$23.9 million with cash on hand.
Summary of Mortgages
Below is a summary of our outstanding mortgage notes payable, the carrying values of the related collateralized real estate, and year of maturity as of
December 31, 2024 and 2023:
As of December 31, 2024
As of December 31, 2023
Mortgage Agreement
Aggregate
Principal
Outstanding
Carrying Value of
Collateralized
Related Real
Estate
Maturity
Dates
Aggregate
Principal
Outstanding
Carrying Value of
Collateralized
Related Real
Estate
Maturity
Dates
Captive mortgages
$
29.6 $
84.9
2034
$
31.9
$
86.3
2024
2021 Real Estate Facility
579.9
845.9
2026
614.4
852.4
2026
2021 BofA Real Estate Facility
158.6
195.0
2031
165.9
198.4
2031
2018 BofA Real Estate Facility
37.9
59.4
2025
50.3
72.7
2025
2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan
Facility
62.2
94.4
2028
72.0
103.6
2028
2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan
Facility
32.0
93.4
2025
37.2
83.1
2025
Total mortgage debt
$
900.2 $
1,362.8
$
971.7
$
1,396.5
Revolving Credit Facility
As discussed above under our "Floor Plan Notes Payable—Non-Trade" footnote, the 2023 Senior Credit Facility includes a $500.0 million Revolving
Credit Facility. We may request Bank of America to issue letters of credit on our behalf thereunder up to $50.0 million. Availability under the Revolving
Credit Facility is limited by borrowing base calculations and is reduced on a dollar-for-dollar basis by the aggregate face amount of any outstanding letters of
credit. As of December 31, 2024, we had $14.0 million in outstanding letters of credit, nothing drawn on our Revolving Credit Facility and $486.0 million of
borrowing availability. As of December 31, 2023, we had $14.0 million in outstanding letters of credit, nothing drawn on our Revolving Credit Facility and
$332.1 million of borrowing availability, with an additional $389.0 million available to convert from our new vehicle floorplan facility. Proceeds from
borrowings from time to time under the revolving credit facility may be used for among other things, acquisitions, working capital and capital expenditures.
Stock Repurchase and Dividend Restrictions
The 2023 Senior Credit Facility and the Indentures currently allow for restricted payments without limit so long as our Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio
(as defined in the 2023 Senior Credit Facility and the Indentures) is not greater than 3.0 to
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1.0 after giving effect to such proposed restricted payments. Restricted payments generally include items such as dividends, share repurchases, unscheduled
repayments of subordinated debt, or purchases of certain investments. Subject to our continued compliance with a consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio
and a maximum consolidated total lease adjusted leverage ratio, in each case as set out in the Indentures, restricted payments capacity additions (or
subtractions if negative) equal to a base level plus the cumulative amount of (i) 50% of our net income (as defined in the 2023 Senior Credit Facility) plus (ii)
100% of any cash proceeds we receive from the sale of equity interests minus (iii) the dollar amount of share purchases made and dividends paid during the
defined measurement periods, subject to certain exceptions. In the event that our Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio does (or would) exceed 3.0 to 1.0, the
2023 Senior Credit Facility and the Indentures would then also allow for restricted payments under mutually exclusive parameters, subject to certain
exclusions. The Company may otherwise make restricted payments only up to the aforementioned cumulative capacity. Our restricted payment capacity
balance as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 was $1.22 billion and $1.18 billion, respectively.
Representations and Covenants
We are subject to a number of covenants in our various debt and lease agreements, including those described below. We were in compliance with all of
our covenants throughout 2024. Failure to comply with any of our debt covenants would constitute a default under the relevant debt agreements, which would
entitle the lenders under such agreements to terminate our ability to borrow under the relevant agreements and accelerate our obligations to repay outstanding
borrowings, if any, unless compliance with the covenants is waived. In many cases, defaults under one of our agreements could trigger cross-default
provisions in our other agreements. If we are unable to remain in compliance with our financial or other covenants, we would be required to seek waivers or
modifications of our covenants from our lenders, or we would need to raise debt and/or equity financing or sell assets to generate proceeds sufficient to repay
such debt. We cannot give any assurance that we would be able to successfully take any of these actions on terms, or at times, that may be necessary or
desirable.
The representations and covenants contained in the agreement governing the 2023 Senior Credit Facility are customary for financing transactions of this
nature including, among others, a requirement to comply with a minimum consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio and maximum consolidated total lease
adjusted leverage ratio, in each case as set out in the agreement governing the 2023 Senior Credit Facility. In addition, certain other covenants could restrict
the Company's ability to incur additional debt, pay dividends or acquire or dispose of assets.
The agreement governing the 2023 Senior Credit Facility also provides for events of default that are customary for financing transactions of this nature,
including cross-defaults to other material indebtedness. In certain instances, an event of default under either the Revolving Credit Facility or the Used Vehicle
Floor Plan Facility could be, or result in, an event of default under the New Vehicle Floor Plan Facility, and vice versa. Upon the occurrence of an event of
default, the Company could be required to immediately repay all amounts outstanding under the applicable facility.
The representations and covenants contained in the 2021 BofA Real Estate Facility are customary for financing transactions of this nature, including,
among others, a requirement to comply with a minimum consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio and maximum consolidated total lease adjusted leverage
ratio, in each case as set out in the 2021 BofA Real Estate Facility. In addition, certain other covenants could restrict our ability to incur additional debt, pay
dividends or acquire or dispose of assets. The 2021 BofA Real Estate Facility also provides for events of default that are customary for financing transactions
of this nature, including cross-defaults to other material indebtedness. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, we could be required to immediately repay
all amounts outstanding thereunder.
The representations and covenants contained in the 2021 Real Estate Facility are customary for financing transactions of this nature, including, among
others, a requirement to comply with a minimum consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio and maximum consolidated total lease adjusted leverage ratio, in
each case as set out in the 2021 Real Estate Facility. In addition, certain other covenants could restrict our ability to incur additional debt, pay dividends or
acquire or dispose of assets. The 2021 Real Estate Facility also provides for events of default that are customary for financing transactions of this nature,
including cross-defaults to other material indebtedness. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, we could be required to immediately repay all amounts
outstanding thereunder.
The representations and covenants contained in the 2018 BofA Real Estate Credit Agreement are customary for financing transactions of this nature,
including, among others, a requirement to comply with a minimum consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio and maximum consolidated total lease adjusted
leverage ratio, in each case as set out in the 2018 BofA Real Estate Credit Agreement. In addition, certain other covenants could restrict our ability to incur
additional debt, pay dividends or acquire or dispose of assets. The 2018 BofA Real Estate Credit Agreement also provides for events of default that are
customary for financing transactions of this nature, including cross-defaults to other material indebtedness. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, we
could be required by the 2018 BofA Real Estate Credit Agreement to immediately repay all amounts outstanding thereunder.
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The representations, warranties and covenants contained in the 2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan Agreement and the related documents are customary for
financing transactions of this nature, including, among others, a requirement to comply with a minimum consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio and
maximum consolidated total lease adjusted leverage ratio. In addition, certain other covenants could restrict our ability to incur additional debt, pay dividends
or acquire or dispose of assets. The 2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan Agreement also provides for events of default that are customary for financing
transactions of this nature, including cross-defaults to other material indebtedness. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, we could be required by the
2018 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility to immediately repay all amounts outstanding thereunder.
The representations, warranties and covenants contained in the 2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Agreement and the related documents are customary for
financing transactions of this nature, including, among others, a requirement to comply with a minimum consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio and
maximum consolidated total lease adjusted leverage ratio. In addition, certain other covenants could restrict our ability to incur additional debt, pay dividends
or acquire or dispose of assets. The 2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Agreement also provides for events of default that are customary for financing
transactions of this nature, including cross-defaults to other material indebtedness. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, we could be required by the
2015 Wells Fargo Master Loan Facility to immediately repay all amounts outstanding thereunder.
15. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND FAIR VALUE
In determining fair value, we use various valuation approaches, including market and income approaches. Accounting standards establish a hierarchy for
inputs used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most
observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs are inputs that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability developed based on
market data obtained from independent sources. Unobservable inputs are inputs that reflect our assumptions about the assumptions market participants would
use in pricing the asset or liability, developed based on the best information available in the circumstances. The hierarchy is broken down into three levels
based on the reliability of inputs as follows:
Level 1-Valuations based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that we have the ability to access.
Level 2-Valuations based on quoted prices in markets that are not active or for which all significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly.
Assets and liabilities utilizing Level 2 inputs include interest rate swap instruments, exchange-traded debt securities that are not actively traded or do not have
a high trading volume, and certain real estate properties on a non-recurring basis.
Level 3-Valuations based on inputs that are unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement. Asset and liability measurements utilizing
Level 3 inputs include those used in estimating the fair value of certain non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities in purchase acquisitions and those
used in the assessment of impairment for goodwill and intangible franchise rights.
The availability of observable inputs can vary and is affected by a wide variety of factors. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that
are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment required to
determine fair value is greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of
the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement is disclosed is
determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement.
Fair value is a market-based exit price measure considered from the perspective of a market participant who holds the asset or owes the liability rather
than an entity-specific measure. Therefore, even when market assumptions are not readily available, our assumptions are set to reflect those that market
participants would use in pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date. We use inputs that are current as of the measurement date, including during
periods of significant market fluctuations.
Financial instruments consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, investments, contracts-in-transit, accounts receivable, cash surrender value of
corporate-owned life insurance policies, accounts payable, floor plan notes payable, subordinated long-term debt, mortgage notes payable, and interest rate
swap instruments. The carrying values of our financial instruments, with the exception of subordinated long-term debt and mortgage notes payable,
approximate fair value primarily due to (i) their short-term nature, (ii) recently completed market transactions, or (iii) existence of variable interest rates,
which approximate market rates. The fair value of our subordinated long-term debt is based on reported market prices in an inactive market that reflects Level
2 inputs. We estimate the fair value of our mortgage notes payable using a present value technique based on current market interest rates for similar types of
financial instruments that reflect Level 2 inputs.
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A summary of the carrying values and fair values of our Notes and our mortgage notes payable is as follows:
As of December 31,
2024
2023
(In millions)
Carrying Value:
4.50% Senior Notes due 2028
$
403.4
$
402.8
4.625% Senior Notes due 2029
791.9
790.4
4.75% Senior Notes due 2030
442.8
442.2
5.00% Senior Notes due 2032
593.0
592.3
Mortgage notes payable
29.6
31.9
Total carrying value
$
2,260.6
$
2,259.7
Fair Value:
4.50% Senior Notes due 2028
$
385.8
$
384.8
4.625% Senior Notes due 2029
742.0
744.0
4.75% Senior Notes due 2030
412.7
410.3
5.00% Senior Notes due 2032
546.0
546.0
Mortgage notes payable
29.3
31.9
Total fair value
$
2,115.8
$
2,117.0
Interest Rate Swap Agreements
We currently have six interest rate swap agreements. These swaps are designed to provide a hedge against changes in variable rate cash flows regarding
fluctuations in the SOFR rate. All interest rate swap agreements with an inception date of 2021 and prior were amended on June 1, 2022 to provide a hedge
against changes in variable rate cash flows regarding fluctuations in SOFR as compared to the previous benchmark rate of one-month LIBOR. The revisions
to the interest rate swap agreements did not impact our hedge accounting because we applied the accounting expedients outlined in ASU 2020-04 and ASU
2021-01 of ASC Topic 848, Reference Rate Reform. The following table provides information on the attributes of each swap as of December 31, 2024:
Inception Date
Notional Principal at Inception
Notional Value as of
December 31, 2024
Notional Principal at Maturity
Maturity Date
(In millions)
January 2022
$
300.0 $
258.8
$
228.8
December 2026
January 2022
$
250.0 $
250.0
$
250.0
December 2031
May 2021
$
184.4 $
158.6
$
110.6
May 2031
July 2020
$
93.5 $
71.0
$
50.6
December 2028
July 2020
$
85.5 $
62.7
$
57.3
November 2025
June 2015
$
100.0 $
53.5
$
53.1
February 2025
The fair value of cash flow swaps is calculated as the present value of expected future cash flows, determined on the basis of forward interest rates and
present value factors. Fair value estimates reflect a credit adjustment to the discount rate applied to all expected cash flows under the swaps. Other than this
input, all other inputs used in the valuation for these swaps are designated to be Level 2 fair values. The fair value of our swaps for the years ended
December 31, 2024 and 2023, reflect a net asset of $76.6 million and $79.8 million, respectively.
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The following table provides information regarding the fair value of our interest rate swap agreements and the impact on the consolidated balance sheets:
As of December 31,
2024
2023
(In millions)
Other current assets
$
20.3
$
27.5
Other long-term assets
56.3
52.3
Total fair value
$
76.6
$
79.8
Our interest rate swaps qualify for cash flow hedge accounting treatment. These interest rate swaps are marked to market at each reporting date and any
unrealized gains or losses are included in accumulated other comprehensive income and reclassified to interest expense in the same period or periods during
which the hedged transactions affect earnings. Information about the effect of our interest rate swap agreements in the accompanying consolidated statements
of income and consolidated statements of comprehensive income, is as follows (in millions):
For the Year Ended December 31,
Results Recognized in Accumulated
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
(Effective Portion)
Location of Results Reclassified from
Accumulated Other Comprehensive
Loss
to Earnings
Results Reclassified from Accumulated
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
to Earnings
2024
$
31.0
Other interest expense, net
$
(34.2)
2023
$
12.1
Other interest expense, net
$
(34.7)
2022
$
100.8
Other interest expense, net
$
(2.4)
On the basis of yield curve conditions as of December 31, 2024 and including assumptions about future changes in fair value, we expect the amount to be
reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income into earnings within the next 12 months will be gains of $20.3 million.
Investments
The table below presents the Company’s investment securities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis aggregated by the level in the fair value
hierarchy within which those measurements fall:
As of December 31, 2024
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
(In millions)
Cash equivalents
$
12.7
$
—
$
—
$
12.7
Short-term investments
3.5
10.9
—
14.4
U.S Treasury
2.6
—
—
2.6
Municipal
—
10.6
—
10.6
Corporate
—
151.9
—
151.9
Mortgage and other asset backed securities
—
169.1
—
169.1
Total
$
6.1
$
342.5
$
—
$
348.6
As of December 31, 2023
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
(In millions)
Cash equivalents
$
4.8
$
—
$
—
$
4.8
Short-term investments
2.0
4.2
—
6.2
U.S. Treasury
13.5
—
—
13.5
Municipal
—
30.1
—
30.1
Corporate
—
132.2
—
132.2
Mortgage and other asset-backed securities
—
150.9
—
150.9
Total
$
15.5
$
317.4
$
—
$
332.9
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We review the fair value hierarchy classifications each reporting period. Changes in the observability of the valuation attributes may result in a
reclassification of certain investments. Such reclassifications are reported as transfers in and out of Level 3, or between other levels, at the beginning fair
value for the reporting period in which the changes occur.
Available-for-sale debt securities are recorded at fair value and any unrealized gains or losses are included in accumulated other comprehensive income
and reclassified to finance and insurance, net revenue in the period or periods during which the debt securities are sold and the gains or losses are realized.
Information about the effect of our available-for-sale debt securities in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and consolidated statements of
comprehensive income, is as follows (in millions):
For the Year Ended
December 31,
Results Recognized in Accumulated
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
(Effective Portion)
Location of Results Reclassified from
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
to Earnings
Results Reclassified from Accumulated
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
to Earnings
2024
$
(1.9)
Revenue-Finance and Insurance, net
$
0.6
2023
$
4.1
Revenue-Finance and Insurance, net
$
(1.1)
2022
$
(6.0)
Revenue-Finance and Insurance, net
$
(1.9)
16. INCOME TAXES
The components of income tax expense are as follows:
For the Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
(In millions)
Current:
Federal
$
75.5
$
128.9
$
142.0
State
16.8
30.1
30.8
Total current income tax expense
92.3
159.0
172.8
Deferred:
Federal
43.2
33.8
130.7
State
9.5
6.0
18.3
Total deferred income tax expense
52.7
39.8
149.0
Total income tax expense
$
145.0
$
198.8
$
321.8
A reconciliation of the statutory federal rate to the effective tax rate is as follows (dollar amounts shown in millions):
For the Year Ended December 31,
2024
%
2023
%
2022
%
Income tax provision at the statutory rate
$
120.8
21.0
$
168.3
21.0
$
277.0
21.0
State income tax expense, net of federal benefit
22.8
4.0
29.8
3.7
42.7
3.2
Non-deductible items
2.5
0.4
1.7
0.2
1.6
0.1
Other, net
(1.1)
(0.2)
(1.0)
(0.1)
0.5
0.1
Income tax expense
$
145.0
25.2
$
198.8
24.8
$
321.8
24.4
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Deferred income tax asset and liability components consisted of the following:
As of December 31,
2024
2023
(In millions)
Deferred income tax assets:
Deferred revenue
$
41.5
$
38.0
F&I chargeback liabilities
11.7
12.1
Other accrued liabilities
4.2
2.9
Stock-based compensation
4.0
3.7
Operating lease right-of-use assets
56.2
61.5
Other, net
11.6
12.9
Total deferred income tax assets
$
129.2
$
131.2
Deferred income tax liabilities:
Intangible asset amortization
$
135.3
$
110.8
Depreciation
80.0
56.9
Operating lease liabilities
54.2
59.9
Investments, net
18.6
20.0
Deferred sales commissions
27.2
18.3
Other, net
1.6
1.6
Total deferred income tax liabilities
$
316.9
$
267.6
Net deferred income tax liabilities
$
(187.7)
$
(136.4)
There were no valuation allowances recorded against the deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2024 or 2023.
As of December 31, 2024, we had an income tax receivable of $3.4 million, included in Other current assets and an income tax payable of $5.7 million
included in accounts payable and other accrued liabilities.
As of December 31, 2023, we had income tax receivable of $11.5 million, included in Other current assets.
The statutes of limitation related to our consolidated Federal income tax returns are closed for all tax years up to and including 2020. The expiration of the
statutes of limitation related to the various state income tax returns that we and our subsidiaries file varies by state. The 2019 through 2023 tax years generally
remain subject to examination by most state tax authorities. We believe that our tax positions comply with applicable tax law and that we have adequately
provided for these matters.
17. OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES
Other long-term liabilities consisted of the following:
As of December 31,
2024
2023
(In millions)
Unearned premiums
$
18.0
$
21.8
Accrued finance and insurance chargebacks
24.3
24.3
Unclaimed property
13.8
5.3
Other
0.3
0.4
Other long-term liabilities
$
56.4
$
51.7
18. SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION
During the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, we made interest payments, including amounts capitalized, totaling $269.6 million, $149.3
million, and $147.2 million, respectively. Included in these interest payments are $99.4 million, $4.0 million, and $8.4 million, of floor plan interest payments
for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
During the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022 we made income tax payments, net of refunds received, totaling $78.7 million, $191.9
million, and $198.4 million, respectively.
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During the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, we transferred $489.7 million, $431.2 million, and $281.4 million, respectively, of loaner
vehicles from other current assets to inventory in our consolidated balance sheets. The aforementioned amounts are included in changes in inventories in the
operating activities section of the accompanying consolidated statement of cash flows.
19. LEASES
We lease real estate and equipment primarily under operating lease agreements. For leases with terms in excess of 12 months, we record a right-of-use
("ROU") asset and lease liability based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. Escalation clauses, lease payments dependent on existing
rates/indexes, renewal options, and purchase options are included within the determination of lease payments when appropriate. We have elected the practical
expedient not to separate lease and non-lease components for all leases that qualify, except for information technology assets that are embedded within service
agreements (such as software license arrangements). Leases are classified as either finance or operating, with classification impacting the pattern of expense
recognition in the income statement.
When available, the implicit rate is utilized to discount lease payments to present value; however, substantially all of our leases do not provide a readily
determinable implicit rate. Therefore, we estimate our incremental borrowing rate to discount the lease payments based on information available at lease
commencement.
Balance Sheet Presentation
As of December 31,
Leases
Classification
2024
2023
(In millions)
Assets:
Current
Operating
Assets held for sale
$
1.9 $
2.1
Non-Current
Operating
Operating lease right-of-use assets
220.1
241.8
Finance
Property and equipment, net
8.4
8.4
Total right-of-use assets
$
230.4 $
252.3
Liabilities:
Current
Operating
Current maturities of operating leases
$
28.1 $
26.2
Operating
Liabilities held for sale
0.2
0.2
Finance
Current maturities of long-term debt
—
—
Non-Current
Operating
Operating lease liabilities
200.0
222.1
Operating
Liabilities held for sale
1.7
1.9
Finance
Long-term debt
8.4
8.4
Total lease liabilities
$
238.4 $
258.8
Lease Term and Discount Rate
As of December 31,
2024
2023
Weighted Average Lease Term - Operating Leases
12.8 years
13.2 years
Weighted Average Lease Term - Finance Lease
35.7 years
36.7 years
Weighted Average Discount Rate - Operating Leases
5.0 %
4.9 %
Weighted Average Discount Rate - Finance Lease
4.4 %
4.4 %
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Lease Costs
The following table provides certain information related to the lease costs for finance and operating leases during the years ended December 31, 2024 and
2023.
For the Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
(In millions)
Finance lease cost (Interest)
$
0.4
$
0.4
Operating lease cost
40.0
36.2
Short-term lease cost
4.6
3.6
Variable lease cost
1.1
1.0
$
46.1
$
41.3
Supplemental Cash Flow Information
The following table presents supplemental cash flow information for leases during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023.
For the Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
(In millions)
Supplemental Cash Flow:
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurements of lease liabilities
Operating cash flows from finance lease
$
0.4
$
0.4
Operating cash flows from operating leases
$
38.4
$
36.2
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities
$
12.0
$
35.0
During the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, we obtained $12.0 million and $35.0 million, respectively, of right-of-use assets in exchange for
new operating lease liabilities. The activity during the year ended December 31, 2023 was primarily as a result of a business combination.
The table below reconciles the undiscounted cash flows for each of the first five years and total of the remaining years to the finance lease liabilities and
operating lease liabilities as of December 31, 2024, including leases related to liabilities associated with assets held for sale.
Finance
Operating
(In millions)
2025
$
0.4
$
38.9
2026
0.4
30.3
2027
0.4
25.0
2028
0.4
22.8
2029
0.4
21.7
Thereafter
15.2
175.3
Total minimum lease payments
$
17.3
$
314.0
Less: Amount of lease payments representing interest
(9.0)
(83.9)
Present value of future minimum lease payments
$
8.4
$
230.1
Less: current obligations under leases (a)
—
(28.3)
Long-term lease obligation (b)
$
8.4
$
201.8
__________________________
(a) Includes $0.2 million of operating lease liabilities classified as liabilities associated with assets held for sale.
(b) Includes $1.7 million of operating lease liabilities classified as liabilities associated with assets held for sale.
Certain of our lease agreements include financial covenants and incorporate by reference the financial covenants set forth in the 2023 Senior Credit
Facility. A breach of any of these covenants could immediately give rise to certain landlord remedies
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under our various lease agreements, the most severe of which include the following: (i) termination of the applicable lease and/or other leases with the same
or an affiliated landlord under a cross-default provision, (ii) eviction from the premises; and (iii) the landlord having a claim for various damages.
20. SEGMENT INFORMATION
As of December 31, 2024, the Company had two reportable segments: (1) Dealerships and (2) TCA. Our dealership operations are organized by
management into geographic region-based groups within the Dealerships segment. The operations of our F&I product provider is reflected within our TCA
segment. Our Chief Operating Decision Maker (CODM) is our Chief Executive Officer who manages the business, regularly reviews financial information
and allocates resources at the geographic region level for our dealerships and at the TCA segment level for our F&I product provider's operations. The
geographic dealership group operating segments have been aggregated into one operating segment disclosed as the Dealerships reportable segment since their
operations (i) have similar economic characteristics (our regions all have similar long-term average gross margins), (ii) offer similar products and services (all
of our regions offer new and used vehicles, parts and service, and finance and insurance products), (iii) have similar customers, (iv) have similar distribution
and marketing practices (all of our regions distribute products and services through dealership facilities that region to customers in similar ways), and (v)
operate under similar regulatory environments.
TCA's vehicle protection products are sold through affiliated dealerships and the revenue from the related commissions is included in finance and
insurance, net revenue in the Dealerships segment before consolidation. The corresponding claims expense incurred and the amortization of deferred
acquisition costs is recorded as a cost of sales in the TCA segment. The Dealerships segment also provides vehicle repair and maintenance services to TCA
customers in connection with claims related to TCA's vehicle protection products. The gross profit earned by our parts and service departments for work
performed for TCA customers is reflected as a reduction of parts and service cost of sales in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. The costs
incurred by TCA for work performed by our parts and service departments are included in finance and insurance cost of sales in the accompanying
consolidated statements of income.
The CODM evaluates the performance of each reportable segment primarily through segment operating income. Segment operating income is derived
from GAAP operating income, adjusted to exclude the effects of asset impairments and to include floor plan interest expense. Asset impairments are excluded
as they are non-recurring in nature and typically do not arise from the ordinary course of operations. By removing these charges, segment operating income
better represents the underlying operational performance of the segments. Floor plan interest expense is included in segment operating income because floor
plan financing is a required component of the business model dictated by manufacturers. As such, it is an inherent and unavoidable cost of operations.
Including floor plan interest expense ensures that the measurement of segment profitability reflects the operational realities and obligations associated with
inventory financing, providing a clearer representation of the Dealerships segment’s performance. This approach ensures a consistent and meaningful
evaluation of each segment's operational performance by normalizing results for items that may not directly reflect ongoing segment profitability. By utilizing
segment operating income in this manner, the CODM can make informed decisions regarding resource allocation, evaluate the relative performance of
individual segments, and monitor the effectiveness of strategic initiatives.
All floor plan interest expense and asset impairments are exclusively within the dealerships segment for the periods presented. Therefore, there are no
reconciling items between segment operating income and income from operations for the TCA segment.
Goodwill acquired in the Koons acquisition, which closed in December 2023, of $272.4 million was allocated to the Dealerships segment.
The majority of TCA’s revenue arises from sales through our affiliated dealerships. Intercompany profits and losses are eliminated in consolidation.
The significant expense categories and amounts are consistent with the segment-level information that is regularly provided to the CODM. Certain
intersegment expenses are included within the amounts shown. Rent and related expenses include rent expense, utilities, property and casualty insurance, real
estate tax and personal property tax. Other segment items for the TCA segment relate to selling, general and administrative expenses.
Reportable segment financial information for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 is as follows:
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As of and for the year ended December 31, 2024
Dealerships
TCA
Total
(In millions)
Revenue from external customers
$
16,885.0
$
303.6
$
17,188.6
Intersegment revenue
222.5
—
222.5
$
17,107.5
$
303.6
$
17,411.1
Reconciliation of revenue
Elimination of intersegment revenue
(222.5)
Total consolidated revenue
$
17,188.6
Less:
Cost of sales
New vehicle
8,209.3
—
Used vehicle
4,972.7
—
Parts and service
1,043.0
—
Finance and insurance
—
223.4
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Personnel costs
1,256.2
—
Rent and related expenses
142.3
—
Advertising
61.8
—
Other selling, general and administrative expense
441.0
—
Other segment items
—
7.0
Depreciation and amortization
74.6
0.4
Floor plan interest expense
89.9
—
Segment operating income
$
816.7
$
72.8
$
889.5
Reconciliation of segment operating income
Intersegment eliminations
Total intersegment revenue eliminations
(222.5)
Total intersegment cost of sales eliminations
208.5
Deferral of SG&A expense (related to capitalized contracts offset by amortization)
19.7
Total intersegment eliminations
5.8
Asset impairments
(149.5)
Other interest expense, net
(179.1)
Gain on dealership divestitures, net
8.6
Income before income taxes
$
575.3
As of and for the year ended December 31, 2024
Dealerships
TCA
Total Reportable
Segments
Eliminations
Total
(In millions)
Capital expenditures
$
308.2
$
—
$
308.2
$
— $
308.2
Other interest expense
$
179.1
$
—
$
179.1
$
— $
179.1
Amortization of deferred acquisition costs
$
—
$
170.2
$
170.2
$
(170.2) $
—
Total assets
$
9,227.6
$
1,049.4
$
10,277.0
$
60.1 $
10,337.0
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As of and for the year ended December 31, 2023
Dealerships
TCA
Total
(In millions)
Revenue from external customers
$
14,517.5
$
285.2
$
14,802.7
Intersegment revenue
181.5
—
181.5
$
14,699.0
$
285.2
$
14,984.2
Reconciliation of revenue
Elimination of intersegment revenue
(181.5)
Total consolidated revenue
$
14,802.7
Less:
Cost of sales
New vehicle
6,927.8
—
Used vehicle
4,150.2
—
Parts and service
949.9
—
Finance and insurance
—
208.1
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Personnel costs
1,106.5
—
Rent and related expenses
118.7
—
Advertising
47.3
—
Other selling, general and administrative expense
366.0
—
Other segment items
—
7.4
Depreciation and amortization
67.1
0.7
Floor plan interest expense
9.6
—
Segment operating income
$
955.9
$
69.0
$
1,025.0
Reconciliation of segment operating income
Intersegment eliminations
Total intersegment revenue eliminations
(181.5)
Total intersegment cost of sales eliminations
189.1
Deferral of SG&A expense (related to capitalized contracts offset by amortization)
28.5
Total intersegment eliminations
36.1
Asset impairments
(117.2)
Other interest expense, net
(156.1)
Gain on dealership divestitures, net
13.5
Income before income taxes
$
801.3
As of and for the year ended December 31, 2023
Dealerships
TCA
Total Reportable
Segments
Eliminations
Total
(In millions)
Capital expenditures
$
142.3
$
—
$
142.3
$
— $
142.3
Other interest expense
$
156.1
$
—
$
156.1
$
— $
156.1
Amortization of deferred acquisition costs
$
—
$
161.9
$
161.9
$
(155.9) $
6.0
Total assets
$
9,199.4
$
913.9
$
10,113.3
$
46.1 $
10,159.4
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As of and for the year ended December 31, 2022
Dealerships
TCA
Total
(In millions)
Revenue from external customers
$
15,188.1
$
245.8
$
15,433.8
Intersegment revenue
153.0
—
153.0
$
15,341.1
$
245.8
$
15,586.9
Reconciliation of revenue
Elimination of intersegment revenue
(153.0)
Total consolidated revenue
$
15,433.8
Less:
Cost of sales
New vehicle
6,521.6
—
Used vehicle
4,843.8
—
Parts and service
939.7
—
Finance and insurance
—
191.9
Personnel costs
1,273.6
—
Rent and related expenses
121.4
—
Advertising
50.0
—
Other selling, general and administrative expense
341.3
—
Other segment items
—
7.0
Depreciation and amortization
68.2
0.8
Floor plan interest expense
8.4
—
Segment operating income
$
1,173.1
$
46.0
$
1,219.0
Reconciliation of segment operating income
Intersegment eliminations
Total intersegment revenue eliminations
(153.0)
Total intersegment cost of sales eliminations
163.8
Deferral of SG&A expense (related to capitalized contracts offset by amortization)
30.0
Total intersegment eliminations
40.8
Other operating income
4.4
Other interest expense, net
(152.2)
Gain on dealership divestitures, net
207.1
Income before income taxes
$
1,319.1
As of and for the year ended December 31, 2022
Dealerships
TCA
Total Reportable
Segments
Eliminations
Total
(In millions)
Capital expenditures
$
107.9
$
—
$
107.9
$
— $
107.9
Other interest expense
$
152.2
$
—
$
152.2
$
— $
152.2
Amortization of deferred acquisition costs
$
—
$
165.7
$
165.7
$
(147.5) $
18.2
Total assets
$
7,170.8
$
869.2
$
8,040.0
$
(18.6) $
8,021.4
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21. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
On August 3, 2022, we received a Civil Investigative Demand ("CID") from the FTC requesting information and documents concerning the Company’s
corporate structure and operation of six of its dealerships. We responded to the CID by producing information and documents for the period August 1, 2019 to
April 24, 2023. On February 8, 2024, the FTC staff counsel sent to us a proposed consent order and draft complaint, alleging that the Company and three of
our dealerships had violated Section 5 of the Federal Trade Commission Act ("FTC Act") and certain provisions of the Equal Credit Opportunity Act
("ECOA") in connection with the sale of add-on products (e.g., vehicle service contracts, maintenance plans, etc.), and advising that it would recommend the
filing of an enforcement action if the Company did not settle the FTC’s claims. On August 16, 2024, after discussions with the FTC stalled, the FTC initiated
an administrative proceeding by filing an enforcement action against the Company. On October 4, 2024, the Company filed suit against the FTC in the United
States District Court for the Northern District of Texas, seeking to enjoin the FTC’s administrative proceeding on the ground that the administrative
proceeding was unconstitutional. While the Company disputes the FTC’s allegations that it violated the FTC Act and the ECOA, we are unable to reasonably
predict the possible outcome of this matter at this time, or provide a reasonably possible range of loss, if any. There can be no assurance that the Company
will succeed in either the FTC’s administrative proceeding against the Company or in the Company’s lawsuit against the FTC, and the FTC’s allegations,
whether meritorious or not, may adversely affect our ability to attract customers, result in the loss of existing customers, harm our reputation and cause us to
incur defense costs and other expenses.
Our dealerships are party to dealer and framework agreements with applicable vehicle manufacturers. In accordance with these agreements, each
dealership has certain rights and is subject to restrictions typical in the industry. The ability of these manufacturers to influence the operations of the
dealerships or the loss of any of these agreements could have a materially negative impact on our operating results.
In some instances, manufacturers may have the right, and may direct us, to implement costly capital improvements to dealerships as a condition to
entering into, renewing, or extending franchise agreements with them. Manufacturers also typically require that their franchises meet specific standards of
appearance. These factors, either alone or in combination, could cause us to use our financial resources on capital projects that we might not have planned for
or otherwise determined to undertake.
From time to time, we and our dealerships are or may become involved in various claims relating to, and arising out of, our business and our operations.
These claims may involve, but not be limited to, financial and other audits by vehicle manufacturers or lenders and certain federal, state, and local
government authorities, which have historically related primarily to (i) incentive and warranty payments received from vehicle manufacturers, or allegations
of violations of manufacturer agreements or policies, (ii) compliance with lender rules and covenants, and (iii) payments made to government authorities
relating to federal, state, and local taxes, as well as compliance with other government regulations. Claims may also arise through litigation, government
proceedings, and other dispute resolution processes. Such claims, including class actions, could relate to, but may not be limited to, the practice of charging
administrative fees and other fees and commissions, employment-related matters, truth-in-lending and other dealer assisted financing obligations, contractual
disputes, actions brought by governmental authorities, and other matters. We evaluate pending and threatened claims and establish loss contingency reserves
based upon outcomes we currently believe to be probable and reasonably estimable.
We believe we have adequately accrued for the potential impact of loss contingencies that are probable and reasonably estimable. Based on our review of
the various types of claims currently known to us, there is no indication of material reasonably possible losses in excess of amounts accrued in the
aggregate. We currently do not anticipate that any known claim will materially adversely affect our financial condition, liquidity, or results of
operations. However, the outcome of any matter cannot be predicted with certainty, and an unfavorable resolution of one or more matters presently known or
arising in the future could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, liquidity, or results of operations.
A significant portion of our business involves the sale of vehicles, parts, or vehicles composed of parts that are manufactured outside the United States.
As a result, our operations are subject to customary risks of importing merchandise, including fluctuations in the relative values of currencies, import duties,
exchange controls, trade restrictions, work stoppages and general political and socio-economic conditions in foreign countries. The United States or the
countries from which our products are imported may, from time to time, impose new quotas, duties, tariffs, or other restrictions; or adjust presently prevailing
quotas, duties, or tariffs, which may affect our operations and our ability to purchase imported vehicles and/or parts at reasonable prices.
Substantially all of our facilities are subject to federal, state and local provisions regarding the discharge of materials into the environment. Compliance
with these provisions has not had, nor do we expect such compliance to have, any material effect upon our capital expenditures, net earnings, financial
condition, liquidity or competitive position. We believe that our current practices and procedures for the control and disposition of such materials comply with
applicable federal, state and local
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requirements. No assurances can be provided, however, that future laws or regulations, or changes in existing laws or regulations, would not require us to
expend significant resources in order to comply therewith.
We had $14.0 million of letters of credit outstanding as of December 31, 2024, which are required by certain of our insurance providers. In addition, as of
December 31, 2024, we maintained a $21.3 million surety bond line in the ordinary course of our business. Our letters of credit and surety bond line are
considered to be off balance sheet arrangements.
Our other material commitments include (i) floor plan notes payable, (ii) operating leases, (iii) long-term debt and (iv) interest on long-term debt, as
described elsewhere herein.
22. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION AND EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
On March 13, 2012, our Board of Directors, upon the recommendation of our Compensation and Human Resources Committee, approved the 2012
Equity Incentive Plan (the "2012 Plan"). On April 18, 2012, our shareholders approved the 2012 Plan, which replaced our previous equity incentive plan. The
2012 Plan expired on March 13, 2022 and provided for the grant of options, performance share units, restricted share units and shares of restricted stock to
our directors, officers and employees in the total amount of 1.5 million shares.
On April 17, 2019, the stockholders of the Company approved the Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. 2019 Equity and Incentive Compensation Plan (the
"2019 Plan") and authorized a total of 1,590,000 shares of common stock for issuance under the 2019 Plan ("Plan Shares"). The Plan Shares include 641,363
shares of common stock which remained unissued under the 2012 Plan. No further grants of awards will be made under the 2012 Plan; however outstanding
awards under the 2012 Plan will continue in effect in accordance with their terms and conditions. There were approximately 1.3 million shares available for
grant in accordance with the 2019 Plan as of December 31, 2024.
We issue shares of our common stock upon the vesting of performance share units or restricted share units. These shares are issued from our authorized
and not outstanding common stock. In addition, in connection with the vesting of equity-based awards, we repurchase a portion of the shares issued equal to
the amount of employee income tax withholding.
We recognized $26.7 million ($6.7 million tax benefit), $23.5 million ($5.8 million tax benefit) and $20.6 million ($5.0 million tax benefit) in share-based
compensation expense for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. As of December 31, 2024, there was $16.4 million of total
unrecognized share-based compensation expense related to non-vested share-based awards granted under the 2012 Plan and 2019 Plan, and the weighted
average period over which it is expected to be recognized is 1.5 years. Further, we expect to recognize $2.6 million of this expense in 2025, $9.1 million in
2026, $4.6 million in 2027.
Performance Share Units
During the year ended December 31, 2024, the Compensation and Human Resources Committee of the Board of Directors approved the grant of up to
86,662 performance share units, which represents 150% of the target award. Performance share units provide an opportunity for the employee-recipient to
receive a number of shares of our common stock based on our performance during a specified year period following the grant as measured against objective
performance goals as determined by the Compensation and Human Resources Committee of our Board of Directors. The actual number of units earned may
range from 0% to 150% of the target number of units depending upon achievement of the performance goals. Performance share units vest in three equal
annual installments with one-third of the award vesting on each of the (i) later of the first anniversary of the grant date, or the date the Compensation and
Human Resources Committee determines the actual award, (ii) second anniversary of the grant date and (iii) third anniversary of the grant date. Upon vesting,
each performance share unit equals one share of common stock of the Company. Compensation cost for performance share units is based on the closing price
of our common stock on the date of grant and the ultimate performance level achieved and is recognized on a graded basis over the three-year vesting period.
The following table summarizes information about performance share units for 2024:
Shares
Weighted Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Non-vested at January 1, 2024
100,063
$
207.28
Granted
86,662
216.89
Vested
(43,009)
183.58
Forfeited or unearned
(25,179)
228.63
Non-vested at December 31, 2024
118,537
$
214.87
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The weighted average grant-date fair value of performance share units and total fair value of performance share units vested are summarized in the
following table:
For the Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Weighted average grant-date fair value of performance share units granted
$
216.89
$
232.24
$
185.05
Total fair value of performance share units vested (in millions)
$
7.9
$
7.0
$
5.7
Restricted Share Units
During the year ended December 31, 2024, the Compensation and Human Resources Committee of the Board of Directors approved the grant of 99,233
shares of restricted share units. Restricted share units generally vest in three equal annual installments commencing on the first anniversary of the grant date.
Compensation cost for restricted share units is based on the closing price of our common stock on the date of grant and is recognized on a straight-line basis
over the three-year vesting period.
The following table summarizes information about restricted share units for 2024:
Shares
Weighted Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Non-vested at January 1, 2024
108,794
$
204.35
Granted
99,233
216.09
Vested
(84,713)
199.54
Forfeited
(10,425)
219.84
Non-vested at December 31, 2024
112,889
$
216.84
The weighted average grant-date fair value of restricted share units and total fair value of restricted share units vested are summarized in the following
table:
For the Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Weighted average grant-date fair value of restricted share units granted
$
216.09
$
231.70
$
184.67
Total fair value of restricted share units vested (in millions)
$
16.9
$
13.1
$
8.5
Restricted Stock Awards
Restricted stock awards vest in three equal annual installments commencing on the first anniversary of the grant date. Compensation cost for restricted
stock awards is based on the closing price of our common stock on the date of grant and is recognized on a straight-line basis over the three-year vesting
period. The Company's most recent grant of restricted stock awards occurred in 2019 and has since been replaced with restricted share units. As of
December 31, 2024 all restricted stock awards have vested.
The following table summarizes information about restricted stock awards for 2024:
Shares
Weighted Average Grant
Date Fair Value
Non-vested at January 1, 2024
2,169
$
69.18
Vested
(2,169)
69.18
Non-vested at December 31, 2024
—
$
—
The weighted average grant-date fair value of restricted stock awards and total fair value of restricted stock awards vested are summarized in the
following table:
For the Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Weighted average grant-date fair value of restricted stock granted
$
—
$
—
$
—
Total fair value of restricted stock awards vested (in millions)
$
0.2
$
0.2
$
2.3
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Employee Retirement Plan
The Company sponsors the Asbury Automotive Retirement Savings Plan (the "Retirement Savings Plan"), a 401(k) plan, for eligible employees.
Employees electing to participate in the Retirement Savings Plan may contribute up to 75% of their annual eligible compensation. IRS rules limited total
participant contributions during 2024 to $23,000, or $30,500 if age 50 or more. After one year of employment, we match 50% of employees' contributions up
to 6% of their eligible compensation. Employer contributions vest on a graded basis over 4 years after the date of hire. The Company's expense related to
employer matching contributions totaled $18.4 million, $16.0 million and, $18.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
23. SUBSEQUENT EVENT
On February 14, 2025, the Company, through one of its subsidiaries, entered into a Purchase and Sale Agreement (the "Transaction Agreement") with
various entities that comprise the Herb Chambers automotive group (the "Herb Chambers Dealerships").
Pursuant to the Transaction Agreement, the Company is expected to acquire substantially all of the assets, including all real property and businesses of the
Herb Chambers Dealerships (collectively, the "Businesses") for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $1.34 billion, which includes $750 million for
goodwill and approximately $590 million for the real estate and leasehold improvements. In addition, the Company will acquire new vehicles, used vehicles,
service loaner vehicles, fixed assets, parts and supplies for a purchase price to be determined at the closing (the "Closing") of the transactions set forth in the
Transaction Agreement and will reimburse the Herb Chambers Dealerships for certain dealership construction and development costs incurred prior to the
Closing. The Businesses includes 33 dealerships, 52 franchises and three collision centers. Herb Chambers will retain ownership of the Mercedes-Benz of
Boston dealership in Somerville, Massachusetts (the "MB Boston Dealership"). The Transaction Agreement includes certain restrictions and obligations
regarding the sale of the MB Boston Dealership, including a put right obligating the Company to purchase the MB Boston Dealership during the five-year
period following the Closing, absent certain circumstances. The Company's acquisition of the Businesses is anticipated to close in the second quarter of 2025
and is subject to various customary closing conditions, including approval from the applicable automotive manufacturers.
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Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None.
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
As of the end of the period covered by this report, we conducted an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our principal executive
officer and principal financial officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rule 13a-15(e)
and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act"). Based on this evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal
financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as of December 31, 2024, solely as a result of the material weakness
described below.
Notwithstanding the above, there were no identified material misstatements in our current year financial statements, no restatements of prior period
financial statements and no changes in previously released financial results required as a result of these control deficiencies. In addition, notwithstanding the
identified material weakness, management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, believes the consolidated financial statements
included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K fairly represent in all material respects our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows as of and for
the periods presented in accordance with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.
Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over the Company's financial reporting, as such term is defined
in Exchange Act Rule 13(a)-15(f). Our management, including the principal executive officer and the principal financial officer, assessed the effectiveness of
our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024. In making this assessment, we used the criteria set forth by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013 framework). Based on our assessment
under the framework in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by COSO, and solely due to the material weakness described below, our management
concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was not effective as of December 31, 2024.
A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility
that a material misstatement of our annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Our auditors, Ernst & Young
LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, have audited and reported on our consolidated financial statements and on the effectiveness of our
internal control over financial reporting. Ernst & Young LLP has issued a report expressing an adverse opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal
control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024. Their reports are contained herein.
Material Weakness
The Jim Koons Dealerships ("Koons") were acquired on December 11, 2023 and represent approximately 16% of the Company’s total revenues for the
year ended December 31, 2024. Koons was not included in the Company's assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as
of December 31, 2023, as the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") rules provide companies one year to assess controls at an acquired entity.
Additionally, prior to being acquired by the Company, Koons was not required to file reports with the SEC. Accordingly, during the year ended December 31,
2024, we performed our first comprehensive assessment of the design and effectiveness of internal controls at Koons.
As a result of control deficiencies in information technology general controls ("ITGCs") identified at Koons that constitute a material weakness, we
determined that the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was not effective as of December 31, 2024. Specifically, the material weakness is due
to insufficient control activities at a third-party software vendor for the Dealer Management System ("DMS") utilized by Koons. The third-party software
vendor who supports the DMS on behalf of Koons does not have a Service Organization Control ("SOC") report that covers the DMS currently being utilized.
The ineffective ITGCs limited the level of assurance over the completeness and accuracy of information derived from the affected IT application used in
automated and manual business process controls at Koons.
Remediation Efforts
In order to remediate the material weakness, management has developed a plan to transition Koons to another DMS in 2025. We expect that the material
weakness will be remediated in 2025, once Koons has transitioned to another DMS and the ITGCs
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have operated for a sufficient period for management to conclude, through testing, that the controls are designed and operating effectively.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Other than with respect to the remediation efforts described above, there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as such term is
defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) during the quarter ended December 31, 2024 that have materially
affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
Item 9B. Other Information
None of the Company's directors or officers adopted, modified, or terminated a Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement or a non-Rule 10b5-1 trading
arrangement during the Company's fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2024.
Item 9C. Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections
None.
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PART III
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers, and Corporate Governance.
Reference is made to the information to be set forth in the "Proposal No. 1 - Election of Directors," under the subheadings "Committees of the Board,"
"Code of Business Conduct and Ethics and Corporate Governance Guidelines" and other subsections under the principal heading of "Governance of the
Company," under the subheadings "Insider Trading Policy" and "Delinquent Section 16(a) Reports" under the principal heading of "Securities Owned by
Management & Certain Beneficial Owners," under the subheading "2024 Director Compensation Table" under the principal heading of "Director
Compensation," and in the "Executive Officers" sections of our Proxy Statement to be filed within 120 days after the end of our fiscal year, which information
is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 11. Executive Compensation.
Reference is made to the information to be set forth in the "Compensation Discussion & Analysis," "Compensation & Human Resources Committee
Report," "Compensation Committee Interlocks & Insider Participation," "Executive Compensation," "2024 Director Compensation Table," and "Governance
of the Company" sections of our Proxy Statement to be filed within 120 days after the end of our fiscal year, which information is incorporated herein by
reference.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.
Reference is made to the information to be set forth in the "Securities Owned by Management & Certain Beneficial Owners" and "Securities Authorized
for Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans" sections of our Proxy Statement to be filed within 120 days after the end of our fiscal year, which information
is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.
Reference is made to the information to be set forth under the "Related Person Transactions" and other subsections under the principal heading of
"Governance of the Company" sections of our Proxy Statement to be filed within 120 days after the end of our fiscal year, which information is incorporated
herein by reference.
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.
Reference is made to the information to be set forth under the subheading "Independent Registered Accounting Firm Fees" under the principal heading of
"Proposal 3 - Ratification of Appointment of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm" section of our Proxy Statement to be filed within 120 days
after the end of our fiscal year, which information is incorporated herein by reference.
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PART IV
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
(a) The following documents are filed as a part of this annual report on Form 10-K:
(1) Financial Statements: See index to Consolidated Financial Statements.
(2) Financial Statement Schedules: None required.
(3) Exhibits required to be filed by Item 601 of Regulation S-K:
The Exhibits listed below are identified by numbers corresponding to the Exhibit Table of Item 601 of Regulation S-K.
Exhibit
Number
Description of Documents
2.1
Purchase Agreement, dated September 28, 2021, by and among Asbury Automotive Group, L.L.C., through one of its subsidiaries, and
certain identified members of the Larry H. Miller Dealership family of entities (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company’s
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2021 filed on October 26, 2021)*
2.2
Real Estate Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated September 28, 2021, by and between Asbury Automotive Group, L.L.C., through one of
its subsidiaries, Miller Family Real Estate L.L.C. and Larry H. Miller Corporation - Boise (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.2 to the
Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2021 filed on October 26, 2021)*
2.3
Purchase Agreement, dated September 28, 2021, by and between Asbury Automotive Group, L.L.C., through one of its subsidiaries, and
certain identified equity owners of the Total Care Auto, Powered by Landcar insurance business affiliated with the Larry H. Miller
Dealership family of entities (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.3 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter
ended September 30, 2021 filed on October 26, 2021)*
2.4
Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated September 7, 2023 by and among Asbury Automotive Group, L.L.C. and the Sellers (as defined
therein) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 8,
2023)*
3.1
Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the
Company's Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on April 25, 2016)*
3.2
By-Laws of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed
with the SEC on April 21, 2014)*
4.1
Indenture relating to the Senior Notes due 2028, dated as of February 19, 2020, among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., each of the
Guarantors named therein and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's
Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on February 20, 2020)*
4.2
First Supplemental Indenture relating to the Senior Notes due 2028, dated as of September 3, 2021, among Asbury CO HG, LLC, Asbury
Noblesville CDJR, LLC, Asbury Greeley SUB, LLC, Asbury CO GEN, LLC, Asbury Risk Services, LLC, Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
for the quarter ended September 30, 2021 filed on October 26, 2021)*
4.3
Second Supplemental Indenture relating to the Senior Notes due 2028, dated as of December 23, 2021, among the guaranteeing
subsidiaries listed thereto, Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.3 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 filed on March 1, 2022)*
4.4
Form of 4.50% Senior Note due 2028 (included as Exhibit A in Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the
SEC on February 20, 2020)*
4.5
Indenture relating to the Senior Notes due 2030, dated as of February 19, 2020, among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., each of the
Guarantors named therein and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Company's
Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on February 20, 2020)*
4.6
First Supplemental Indenture relating to the Senior Notes due 2030, dated as of September 3, 2021, among Asbury CO HG, LLC, Asbury
Noblesville CDJR, LLC, Asbury Greeley SUB, LLC, Asbury CO GEN, LLC, Asbury Risk Services, LLC, Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
for the quarter ended September 30, 2021 filed on October 26, 2021)*
4.7
Second Supplemental Indenture relating to the Senior Notes due 2030, dated as of December 23, 2021, among the guaranteeing
subsidiaries listed thereto, Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.7 of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 filed on March 1, 2022)*
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4.8
Form of 4.75% Senior Note due 2030 (included as Exhibit A in Exhibit 4.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the
SEC on February 20, 2020)*
4.9
Officer’s Certificate of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. pursuant to the 2028 Notes Indenture, dated September 16, 2020 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 4.3 of the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 16, 2020)*
4.10
Officer’s Certificate of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. pursuant to the 2030 Notes Indenture, dated September 16, 2020 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 4.4 of the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 16, 2020)*
4.11
Indenture relating to the Senior Notes due 2029, dated as of November 19, 2021, among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., each of the
guarantors named therein and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s
Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 19, 2021)*
4.12
First Supplemental Indenture relating to the Senior Notes due 2029, dated as of December 23, 2021, among the guaranteeing subsidiaries
listed thereto, Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.12 of
the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 filed on March 1, 2022)*
4.13
Form of 4.625% Senior Note due 2029 (included as Exhibit A in Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the
SEC on November 19, 2021)*
4.14
Indenture relating to the Senior Notes due 2032, dated as of November 19, 2021, among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., each of the
guarantors named therein and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Company’s
Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 19, 2021)*
4.15
First Supplemental Indenture relating to the Senior Notes due 2032, dated as of December 23, 2021, among the guaranteeing subsidiaries
listed thereto, Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.15 of
the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 filed on March 1, 2022)*
4.16
Form of 5.000% Senior Note due 2029 (included as Exhibit A in Exhibit 4.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the
SEC on November 19, 2021)*
4.17
Description of Registrant's Securities (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.9 of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year
ended December 31, 2020 filed on March 1, 2021)*
10.1**
Amended and Restated 2002 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-
K filed with the SEC on February 14, 2012)*
10.2**
2012 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Company's Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A filed
with the SEC on March 16, 2012)*
10.3**
First Amendment to 2012 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K
filed with the SEC on January 27, 2017)*
10.4**
Amended and Restated Key Executive Incentive Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current
Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on May 4, 2009)*
10.5**
Amendment No. 1 to Amended and Restated Key Executive Incentive Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the
Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2018 filed on April 26, 2018)*
10.6**
Form of Director and Officer Indemnification Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Company's Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2010 filed on April 30, 2010)*
10.7**
Employment Agreement between Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and David W. Hult, dated as of October 23, 2014 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on October 23, 2014)*
10.8**
First Amendment to Employment Agreement between Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and David W. Hult, dated as of August 21, 2017
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on August 22, 2017)*
10.9**
Second Amendment to Employment Agreement between Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and David W. Hult, dated as of June 5, 2020
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on June 5, 2020)*
10.10**
Letter Agreement between Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and Michael Welch, dated as of June 14, 2021 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.1 of the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 6, 2021)*
10.11**
Severance Pay Agreement for Key Employee between Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and Michael Welch dated as of October 21, 2021
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Table of Contents
10.12**
Severance Pay Agreement for Key Employee between Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and Daniel Clara dated as of July 28, 2022
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2022 filed on
July 28, 2022)*
10.13**
Severance Pay Agreement for Key Employee between Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and Jed M. Milstein, dated as of February 21, 2017
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 filed on
February 23, 2017)*
10.14**
Severance Pay Agreement for Key Employee between Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and Dean Calloway, dated as of July 1, 2024
10.15**
Amended and Restated Severance Pay Agreement for Key Employee between Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and George A. Villasana,
dated as of February 21, 2017 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year
ended December 31, 2016 filed on February 23, 2017)*
10.16**
Transition and Retirement Agreement between Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and George A. Villasana, dated as of April 18, 2024
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 19, 2024)*
10.17**
Severance Pay Agreement for Key Employee between Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and Miran Maric, dated as of March 8, 2022
10.18**
2019 Equity and Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Company's Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A
filed with the SEC on March 14, 2019)*
10.19**
Form of Equity Award Agreement under the 2019 Equity and Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15 of the Company's
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 filed on March 1, 2021)*
10.20**
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report
on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on October 23, 2017)*
10.21
Credit Agreement, dated as of September 26, 2013, among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., certain of the subsidiaries of Asbury
Automotive Group, Inc. and Bank of America, N.A. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form
8‑K filed with the SEC on September 30, 2013)*
10.22
Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of September 25, 2019, among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., as a Borrower,
certain of its subsidiaries, as Vehicle Borrowers, Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent, Revolving Swing Line Lender, New
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, Used Vehicle Floorplan Swingline Lender and an L/C Issuer, and the other Lenders party thereto,
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Co-Syndication Agents, Mercedes-Benz Financial Services USA LLC and
Toyota Motor Credit Corporation, as Co-Documentation Agents, and BofA Securities, Inc. as Sole Lead Arranger and Sole Bookrunner
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 26, 2019)*
10.23
Third Amended and Restated Company Guaranty Agreement, dated as of September 25, 2019, between Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
and Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form
8-K filed with the SEC on September 26, 2019)*
10.24
Third Amended and Restated Subsidiary Guaranty Agreement, dated as of September 25, 2019, among certain subsidiaries of Asbury
Automotive Group, Inc. and Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's
Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 26, 2019)*
10.25
Third Amended and Restated Security Agreement, dated as of September 25, 2019, among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., certain of its
subsidiaries and Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Company's Current
Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 26, 2019)*
10.26
Third Amended and Restated Escrow and Security Agreement, dated as of September 25, 2019, among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.,
certain of its subsidiaries and Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Company's
Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 26, 2019)*
10.27
Third Amended and Restated Securities Pledge Agreement, dated as of September 25, 2019, among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.,
certain of its subsidiaries and Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the Company's
Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 26, 2019)*
10.28
First Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated January 31, 2020, among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., as a
borrower, certain of its subsidiaries, as Vehicle Borrowers, Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent, Revolving Swing Line
Lender, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, Used Vehicle Floorplan Swingline Lender and an L/C Issuer, and the other lenders
party thereto, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Co-Syndication Agents, Mercedes-Benz Financial Services
USA LLC and Toyota Motor Credit Corporation, as Co-Documentation Agents, and BofA Securities, Inc. as Sole Lead Arranger and Sole
Bookrunner (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on February 3,
2020)*
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10.29
Second Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated August 10, 2020, among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., as
a borrower, certain of its subsidiaries, as vehicle borrowers, the other guarantors party thereto, the other lenders party thereto and Bank of
America, N.A., as administrative agent, revolving swing line lender, new vehicle floorplan swing line lender, used vehicle floorplan swing
line lender and an l/c issuer (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter
ended September 30, 2020 filed on November 3, 2020)*
10.30
Third Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated October 29, 2021, among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., as
a borrower, certain of its subsidiaries, as vehicle borrowers, Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent, revolving swing line lender,
new vehicle floorplan swing line lender, used vehicle floorplan swingline lender and an L/C issuer, and the other lenders party thereto,
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as co-syndication agents, Mercedes-Benz Financial Services USA LLC and
Toyota Motor Credit Corporation, as co-documentation agents, and BofA Securities, Inc. as sole lead arranger and sole bookrunner
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.28 of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 filed on
March 1, 2022)*
10.31
Fourth Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of May 25, 2022, among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.,
as a borrower, certain of its subsidiaries, as vehicle borrowers, the guarantors party thereto, Bank of America, N.A., as administrative
agent, revolving swing line lender, new vehicle floorplan swing line lender, used vehicle floorplan swingline lender and an L/C issuer, and
the other lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter
ended June 30, 2022 filed on July 28, 2022)*
10.32
Fifth Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of September 30,2022 among Asbury Automotive Group,
Inc., as a borrower, certain of its subsidiaries, as vehicle borrowers, Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent, revolving swing line
lender, new vehicle floorplan swing line lender, used vehicle floorplan swingline lender and an l/c issuer, and the other lenders party
thereto, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as co-syndication agents, Mercedes-Benz Financial Services USA LLC
and Toyota Motor Credit Corporation, as co-documentation agents, and BofA Securities, Inc. as sole lead arranger and sole bookrunner
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 4, 2022)*
10.33
Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of October 20, 2023, by and among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., as a
borrower, certain of its subsidiaries, as vehicle borrowers, Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent, revolving swing line lender,
new vehicle floorplan swing line lender, used vehicle floorplan swingline lender and an L/C issuer, and the other lenders party thereto,
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as co-syndication agents, Mercedes-Benz Financial Services USA LLC and
Toyota Motor Credit Corporation, as co-documentation agents, and BofA Securities, Inc. as sole lead arranger and sole bookrunner
10.34
Amended and Restated Master Loan Agreement, dated as of February 3, 2015, by and among certain subsidiaries of Asbury Automotive
Group, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on
Form 8-K filed with the SEC on February 4, 2015)*
10.35
Second Amended and Restated Unconditional Guaranty, dated as of February 3, 2015, by and between Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and
Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed
with the SEC on February 4, 2015)*
10.36
Credit Agreement, dated as of November 13, 2018, among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., certain subsidiaries of Asbury Automotive
Group, Inc. and Bank of America, N.A. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.33 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 2018 filed on February 28, 2019)*
10.37
Master Loan Agreement, dated as of November 16, 2018, by and among certain subsidiaries of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and Wells
Fargo Bank, National Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.34 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year
ended December 31, 2018 filed on February 28, 2019)*
10.38
Unconditional Guaranty, dated as of November 16, 2018, between Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National
Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.35 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31,
2018 filed on February 28, 2019)*
10.39
First Amendment to Master Loan Agreement, dated as of December 31, 2019, by and among certain subsidiaries of Asbury Automotive
Group, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.41 to the Company's Annual Report on
Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 filed on March 2, 2020)*
10.40
Second Amendment to Master Loan Agreement, dated as of June 1, 2022, by and among certain subsidiaries of Asbury Automotive Group,
Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2022 filed on July 28, 2022)*
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10.41
Amended and Restated Commitment Letter, dated as of December, 30, 2019, by and among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., Bank of
America, N.A., BofA Securities, Inc., JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association,
Santander Bank, N.A., SunTrust Robinson Humphrey, Inc., Trust Bank and U.S. Bank National Association (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.43 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019)*
10.42
Credit Agreement, dated May 10, 2021, by and among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., certain subsidiaries party thereto, the various
financial institutions party thereto as lenders, and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.1 of the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 20, 2021)*
10.43
Second Amendment to Amended and Restated Master Loan Agreement, dated as of June 1, 2022, by and among certain subsidiaries of
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Company's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2022 filed on July 28, 2022)*
10.44
Third Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of May 25, 2022, among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., as borrower, certain of
subsidiaries of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and Bank of America, N.A. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2022 filed on July 28, 2022)*
10.45
Third Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of May 25, 2022, among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., as borrower, certain
subsidiaries of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and Bank of America, N.A. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Company's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2022 filed on July 28, 2022)*
10.46
Second Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of May 25, 2022, by and among Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., certain subsidiaries
party thereto as borrowers, the guarantors party thereto, the lenders party thereto, and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2022 filed on
July 28, 2022)*
19.1
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. Insider Trading Policy
21
Subsidiaries of the Company
23.1
Consent of Ernst & Young LLP
31.1
Certificate of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to
Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2
Certificate of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to
Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1
Certificate of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
of 2002
32.2
Certificate of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of
2002
97
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. Recoupment Policy (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 97 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form
10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed on February 29, 2024)*
101.INS
XBRL Instance Document - The instance document does not appear in the interactive data file because its XBRL tags are embedded within
the inline XBRL document.
101.SCH
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
104
The cover page from Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 has been
formatted in Inline XBRL.
*
Incorporated by reference.
**
Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
Item 16. Form 10-K Summary
None.
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its
behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
Date:
February 26, 2025
By:
/s/ David W. Hult
Name:
David W. Hult
Title:
Chief Executive Officer and President
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its
behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Signature
Title
Date
/s/ David W. Hult
Chief Executive Officer, President and Director
February 26, 2025
(David W. Hult)
/s/ Michael D. Welch
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
February 26, 2025
(Michael D. Welch)
/s/ Nathan E. Briesemeister
Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer and
February 26, 2025
(Nathan E. Briesemeister)
Controller
/s/ Thomas J. Reddin
Director
February 26, 2025
(Thomas J. Reddin)
Non-Executive Chairman of the Board
/s/ Joel Alsfine
Director
February 26, 2025
(Joel Alsfine)
/s/ William D. Fay
Director
February 26, 2025
(William D. Fay)
/s/ Juanita T. James
Director
February 26, 2025
(Juanita T. James)
/s/ Philip F. Maritz
Director
February 26, 2025
(Philip F. Maritz)
/s/ Maureen F. Morrison
Director
February 26, 2025
(Maureen F. Morrison)
/s/ Shamla Naidoo
Director
February 26, 2025
(Shamla Naidoo)
/s/ Bridget M. Ryan-Berman
Director
February 26, 2025
(Bridget M. Ryan-Berman)
/s/ Hilliard C. Terry, III
Director
February 26, 2025
(Hilliard C. Terry, III)
128
Exhibit 10.11
SEVERANCE PAY AGREEMENT FOR KEY EMPLOYEE
This Agreement is entered into as of October 21, 2021 (the “Effective Date”) between Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
(“Asbury”) and Michael Welch (“Executive”).
IN CONSIDERATION of the promises and mutual covenants and agreements contained herein, the Asbury and
Executive agree as follows:
1.
Severance Pay Arrangement
If a Termination (as defined in Section 2 below) of Executive’s employment occurs at any time during Executive’s
employment, Asbury will pay Executive 12 months of Executive’s base salary as of the date of Termination (hereinafter such pay
shall be referred to as “Severance Pay”). The Severance Pay will be subject to required withholding and will be made by Asbury
to Executive monthly over the course of 12 months on the regular payroll dates beginning on the first regular payroll date after
the effective date of the release referenced in Section B below that Executive executes.
In addition to the payment of Severance Pay, if a Termination (as defined in Section 2 below) of Executive’s employment
occurs at any time during Executive’s employment with Asbury, to the extent that Executive participates in a bonus
compensation plan at the date of Termination, Asbury shall pay Executive a pro rata portion of that bonus for the year of the
Termination equal to the amount of the bonus that Executive would have received if Executive’s employment had not been
terminated during such year, multiplied by the percentage of such year that has expired through the date of Termination. Such
bonus shall be paid at such time as bonuses are paid under the bonus compensation plan to Asbury’s other employees whose
employment was not terminated in such year.
Asbury further agrees that, if Executive, upon a Termination (as defined in Section 2 below) of Executive’s employment
occurs at any time during Executive’s employment with Asbury, timely and properly elects COBRA for any medical, dental and
vision benefit plans in which Executive was participating immediately prior to the end of Executive’s employment with Asbury,
Asbury shall continue to pay its portion of the monthly premium for those COBRA- covered medical, dental and vision benefit
plans for a period of 12 months after the last day of Executive’s employment with Asbury. Notwithstanding the above, if
Executive obtains other employment (prior to the end of the 12 month COBRA reimbursement period) under which Executive is
eligible to be covered by benefits equal to the benefits in his COBRA-elected plans, Asbury’s obligation to reimburse Executive
ceases upon Executive’s eligibility for such equal benefits.
Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, if Executive is determined to be a “specified employee” within the
meaning of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended the (“Code”) and if one or more of the payments or
benefits to be received by Executive pursuant to this Agreement would be considered deferred compensation subject to Section
409A of the Code, then no such payment shall be made or benefit provided until six (6) months following Executive’s date of
Termination.
2.
Termination Triggering Severance Pay
A “Termination” triggering the Severance Pay set forth above in Section 1 is defined as a termination of Executive’s
employment with Asbury: (1) by Asbury without “cause”, or (2) by Executive because of (x) a material change in the geographic
location at which the Executive must perform Executive’s services (which shall in no event include a relocation of Executive’s
current principal place of business to a location less than 50 miles away), (y) a material diminution in Executive’s base
compensation, or (z) a material diminution in Executive’s authority, duties, or responsibilities. For avoidance of doubt, a
“Termination” shall not include a termination of Executive’s employment by Asbury for “cause” or due to Executive’s, death,
disability, retirement or voluntary resignation.
For the purposes of this Agreement, the definition of “cause” is: (a) Executive’s gross negligence or serious misconduct
(including, without limitation, any criminal, fraudulent or dishonest conduct) that is or may be injurious to Asbury; or (b)
Executive’s being convicted of, or entering a plea of nolo contendere to, any crime that constitutes a felony or involves moral
turpitude; or (c) Executive’s breach of Sections 3, 4 or 5 below; or (d) Executive’s willful and continued failure to perform
Executive’s duties on behalf of Asbury; or (e) Executive’s material breach of a written policy of Asbury. For purposes of this
Agreement, the definition of “disability” is a physical or mental disability or infirmity that prevents the performance by
Executive of his duties lasting (or likely to last, based on competent medical evidence presented to Asbury) for a continuous
period of six months or longer.
3.
Confidential Information and Nondisclosure Provision
As a condition to the receipt of the Severance Pay and benefits described in Section 1 above, during and after
employment with Asbury, Executive shall agree not to disclose to any person (other than to an employee or director of Asbury, or
to Asbury’s attorneys, accountants and other advisors or except as may be required by law) and not use to compete with Asbury
any confidential or proprietary information, knowledge or data that is not in the public domain that was obtained by Executive
while employed by Asbury regarding Asbury or any products, improvements, customers, methods of distribution, sales, prices,
profits, costs, contracts, suppliers, business prospects, business methods, techniques, research, trade secrets or know-how of
Asbury (collectively, “Confidential Information”). In the event that Executive’s employment with Asbury ends for any reason,
Executive will deliver to Asbury on or before the Executive’s last day of employment all documents and data of any nature
(whether in tangible or electronic form) pertaining to Executive’s work with Asbury and will not take any documents or data or
any reproduction, or any documents containing or pertaining to any Confidential Information. Executive agrees that in the event
of a breach by Executive of this provision, Asbury shall be
entitled to inform all potential or new employers of such breach and to cease payments and benefits that would otherwise be
made pursuant to Section 1 above, as well as to obtain injunctive relief and damages, including reasonable attorneys fees, and
which may include recovery of amounts paid to Executive under this Agreement.
4.
Non-Solicitation/Non-Hire of Employees
Executive agrees that, during his employment at Asbury and for a 12-month period after the end of his employment with
Asbury for any reason, he will not, directly or indirectly, solicit, recruit or hire any employee of Asbury (or any person who was
an employee of Asbury during the 12 month period preceding the last day of Executive’s employment with Asbury) or encourage
any such employee to terminate employment with Asbury.
5.
Covenant Not to Compete
Executive agrees that, during his employment at Asbury and for a 12-month period after the end of his employment with
Asbury for any reason, he will not (except on behalf of or with the prior written consent of Asbury, which consent may be
withheld in Asbury’s sole discretion):
(a)
provide services of a leadership, management, executive, operational, or advisory capacity and/or participate in the
ownership of or provide financial backing to an automotive dealership that is located within a fifty-mile radius of any address set
forth on Exhibit A (the “Area”);
(b)
provide senior/corporate level leadership, executive, operational, or advisory services to any corporate competitor
of Asbury who owns or operates one or more automotive dealerships within the Area; and
(c)
provide services of a leadership, management, executive, operational or advisory capacity for anyone or any
business whose focus is buying, conglomerating, or otherwise acquiring one or more automotive dealerships that are located
within the Area.
For purposes of this Section 5, Executive acknowledges and agrees that Asbury conducts business in the Area and that
the Area is a reasonable geographic limitation.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, Asbury hereby agrees that the foregoing covenant
shall not be deemed breached as a result of the passive ownership by Executive of: (i) less than an aggregate of 5% of any class
of stock of a business that competes with Asbury; or (ii) less than an aggregate of 10% in value of any instrument of
indebtedness of a business that competes with Asbury. Asbury further agrees that nothing in this Section 5 prohibits Executive
from accepting employment from, and performing services for, businesses engaged in the finance industry, and businesses
engaged in the manufacturing and/or sale of automobile parts or the provision of automotive service, provided such businesses
do not also engage in the retail of automobiles within the Area. By way of example, nothing in this Section 5 would prohibit
Executive from working with such businesses as American General Finance, NAPA Auto Parts or Goodyear.
Within one day of the end of Executive’s employment with Asbury for any reason, Executive agrees to re-confirm his
commitment to the post-employment restrictive covenants in this Agreement. Executive further agrees that, as part of that re-
confirmation, the term “Area” and Exhibit A hereto may be amended by Asbury, but only to the extent necessary to list the
addresses of Asbury’s headquarters and any automotive dealerships that Asbury owns and/or operates as of the last day of
Executive’s employment with Asbury.
6.
Construction/Enforcement of Post-Employment Covenants
Executive agrees that the provisions of Sections 3, 4 and 5 are reasonable and properly required for the adequate
protection of the business and the goodwill of Asbury. However, if a judicial determination is made that any of the provisions of
Sections 3, 4 or 5 constitutes an unreasonable or otherwise unenforceable restriction against Executive, such provision(s) shall be
modified or severed so as to permit enforcement of the provision(s) to the extent reasonable.
7.
Violation of Post-Employment Covenants
Executive agrees that, in the event of a material breach by Executive of any Section of this Agreement, including
Sections 3, 4, or 5, Asbury shall be entitled to: (i) inform all potential or new employers of such breach; (ii) cease payments and
benefits that would otherwise be made pursuant to Section 1 above (and in lieu of such payments and benefits pay Executive five
hundred dollars ($500.00)); (iii) obtain injunctive relief and damages, including reasonable attorney’s fees; and (iv) recover the
amounts paid to Executive under this Agreement (other than the above- referenced $500.00) during any period of material breach
by Executive. To the extent that Executive is determined through agreement or resolution of any pending claim to not have
violated any covenant at issue, he shall receive any and all severance that has not been paid under the Agreement and/or which
was recovered from Executive under this Section 7.
GENERAL PROVISIONS
A.
Employment is At Will
Executive and Asbury acknowledge and agree that Executive is an “at will” employee, which means that either Executive
or Asbury may terminate the employment relationship at any time, for any reason, with or without cause or notice, and that
nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as an express or implied contract of employment.
B.
Execution of Release
Executive agrees that, as a condition to the receipt of the Severance Pay and other compensation and insurance benefits
described in Section 1 above, Executive shall execute a release of all claims against Asbury (and its corporate parents,
subsidiaries, franchisors, franchisees, management companies, divisions, and affiliates) and the past, present and future officers,
directors, agents, officials, employees, insurers and attorneys of Asbury (and its corporate parents, subsidiaries, franchisors,
franchisees, management companies, divisions, and affiliates) arising out of Executive’s employment or the end of his
employment with Asbury,
such release to not be revoked by Executive and to completely waive and release any claim of discrimination, harassment or
wrongful discharge under local, state or federal law.
C.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Any disputes arising under or in connection with this Agreement shall be resolved by binding arbitration before an
arbitrator (who shall be an attorney with at least ten years’ experience in employment law) in the city where Executive was
employed with Asbury and in accordance with the rules and procedures of the most recent employment rules of the American
Arbitration Association. Each party may choose to retain legal counsel and shall pay its own attorneys’ fees, regardless of the
outcome of the arbitration. Executive may be required to pay a filing fee limited to the equivalent cost of filing in the court of
jurisdiction. Asbury will pay the fees and costs of conducting the arbitration. Judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrator
may be entered in any court of jurisdiction.
D.
Non-Disparagement
Executive agrees not to make any disclosures, issue any statements or otherwise cause to be disclosed any information
which is designed, intended or might reasonably be anticipated to disparage Asbury, its officers or directors, its business,
services, products, technologies and/or personnel. Nothing in this section is intended, nor shall be construed, to: (i) prohibit
Executive from any communications to, or participation in any investigation or proceeding conducted by, any governmental
agency with jurisdiction concerning the terms, conditions and privileges of employment or jurisdiction over Asbury’s business;
(ii) interfere with, restrain, or prevent Executive’s communications regarding the terms and conditions of employment; or (iii)
prevent Executive from otherwise engaging in any legally protected activity.
E.
Other Provisions
(a)
This Agreement shall be binding upon the heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns of Executive and
Asbury, including any successor to or assign of Asbury.
(b)
Upon the end of Executive’s employment with Asbury for any reason, the provisions of this Agreement shall
survive to the extent necessary to give effect to the provisions herein, including Sections 3, 4 and 5.
(c)
The headings and captions are provided for reference and convenience only and shall not be considered part of this
Agreement.
(d)
Executive also covenants to reasonably cooperate with Asbury if Executive is needed as a witness in any litigation
or legal matters involving Asbury.
(e)
Any notice or other communication required or permitted to be delivered under this Agreement shall be (i) in
writing, (ii) delivered personally, by nationally recognized overnight courier service or by certified or registered mail, first-class
postage prepaid and return receipt requested, (iii) deemed to have been received on the date of delivery or on the third business
day
after mailing, and (iv) addressed as follows (or to such other address as the party entitled to notice shall later designate in
accordance with these terms):
If to Asbury: Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
c/o The Office of the General Counsel 2905 Premiere Parkway, Suite 300
Duluth, GA 30097
If to Executive: To the most recent address of Executive set forth in the personnel records of Asbury.
(f)
This Agreement supersedes any and all prior agreements between Asbury and Executive relating to payments upon
Termination of employment or Severance Pay and may only be modified in a writing signed by Asbury and Executive.
(g)
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Georgia.
(h)
All payments hereunder shall be subject to any required withholding of federal, state, local and foreign taxes
pursuant to any applicable law or regulation.
(i)
If any provision of this Agreement shall be held invalid or unenforceable, such holding shall not affect any other
provisions, and this Agreement shall be construed and enforced as if such provisions had not been included. No provision of this
Agreement shall be waived unless the waiver is agreed to in writing and signed by Executive and the Chief Human Resources
Officer of Asbury. No waiver by either party of any breach of, or of compliance with, any condition or provision of this
Agreement by the other party shall be considered a waiver of any other condition or provision or of the same condition or
provision at another time.
(j)
The parties hereto acknowledge and agree that, to the extent applicable, this Agreement shall be interpreted in
accordance with, and incorporate the terms and conditions required by, Section 409A of the Code and the Department of
Treasury regulations and other interpretive guidance issued thereunder. Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the
contrary, in the event that Asbury determines that any amounts payable hereunder will be immediately taxable to Executive
under Section 409A of the Code and related Department of Treasury guidance, Asbury and Executive shall cooperate in good
faith to (x) adopt such amendments to this Agreement and appropriate policies and procedures, including amendments and
policies with retroactive effect, that they mutually determine to be necessary or appropriate to preserve the intended tax treatment
of the benefits provided by this Agreement, to preserve the economic benefits of this Agreement and to avoid less favorable
accounting or tax consequences for Asbury and/or (y) take such other actions as mutually determined to be necessary or
appropriate to exempt the amounts payable hereunder from Section 409A of the Code or to comply with the requirements of
Section 409A of the Code and thereby avoid the application of penalty taxes thereunder.
This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of
which together will constitute one and the same instrument.
AGREED TO AS OF OCTOBER 21, 2021
EXECUTIVE:
ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE GROUP, INC.
/s/ Michael D. Welch
/s/ David W. Hult
Name: Michael D. Welch
Name: David W. Hult
Title: Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
Title: President & CEO
EXHIBIT A
As used in the Severance Pay Agreement, “Area” means a 50-mile radius from any of the following addresses:
Corporate Headquarters 2905
Premiere Parkway
Duluth, GA 30097
11505 Alpharetta Highway
Roswell, GA 30076
10995 Westside Parkway
Alpharetta, GA 30009
1355 Cobb Parkway South Marietta,
GA 30060
1606 Church Street
Decatur, GA 30033
4197 Jonesboro Road Union
City, GA 30291
7909 Mall Parkway
Lithonia, GA 30038
2550 The Nalley Way Atlanta,
GA 30360
2020 Cobb Parkway
Marietta, GA 30080
7849 Mall Parkway
Lithonia, GA 30038
2750 South Cobb Parkway Smyrna,
GA 30080
980 Mansell Road
Roswell, GA 30076
11130 Alpharetta Highway
Roswell, GA 30076
7969 Mall Parkway
Lithonia, GA 30038
1550 Mansell Road
Alpharetta, GA 30009
2712 Laurens Road
Greenville, SC 29607
2668 Laurens Road
Greenville, SC 29607
2700 Laurens Road
Greenville, SC 29607
2686 Laurens Road
Greenville, SC 29607
11654 Olive Boulevard Creve Coeur, MO
63141
755 North New Ballas Creve Coeur, MO
63141
777 Decker Lane
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
11910 Olive Boulevard Creve Coeur, MO
63141
11830 Olive Boulevard Creve Coeur, MO
63141
951 Technology Drive
O'Fallon, MO 63368
9207 Adamo Drive
Tampa, FL 33619
3810 West Hillsborough Avenue Tampa, FL 33614
9205 Adamo Drive
Tampa, FL 33619
3800 West Hillsborough Avenue Tampa, FL 33614
9210 Adamo Drive
Tampa, FL 33619
1310 Buford Highway
Cumming, GA 30041
4200 Jonesboro Road Union City, GA
30291
4115 Jonesboro Road Union City, GA
30291
4400 South US Highway 1 Ft. Pierce,
FL 34982
4429 US 1 South
Ft. Pierce, FL 33954
7245 Blanding Boulevard
Jacksonville, FL 32244
10880 Philips Highway
Jacksonville FL 32256
2655 North Volusia Avenue Orange City, FL
32763
2677 North Volusia Avenue Orange City, FL
32763
2308 South Woodland Boulevard Deland, FL
32720
9650 Atlantic Boulevard
Jacksonville, FL 32225
11003 Atlantic Boulevard
Jacksonville, FL 32225
4450 US 1 South Ft. Pierce, Fl
34982
11051 South Orange Blossom Trail Orlando FL
32837
2925 US 1 South
St Augustine, FL 32086
10600 Atlantic Boulevard
Jacksonville, FL 32225
10859 Philips Highway
Jacksonville, FL 32256
4600 North Dale Mabry Highway Tampa, FL 33614
4400 North Dale Mabry Highway Tampa, FL 33614
4051 West Plano Parkway Plano, TX 75093
13553 US Highway 183 North
Austin, TX 78750
300 West Loop 820 South Fort Worth, TX
76108
1601 North Dallas Parkway (7200 State
Highway 121)
Frisco, TX 75034
6400 TX Highway 121
Frisco, TX 75034
3700 West Airport Freeway Irving, TX 75062
1300 East State Highway 114 DFW Airport,
TX 75261
901 East State Highway 114
Grapevine, TX 76051
6785 Dallas Parkway
Plano, TX 75024
4201 Beltway Place
Arlington, TX 76018
6113 Lemmon Avenue
Dallas, TX 75209
5601 Bryant Irvin Road Fort Worth, TX
76132
6107 Lemmon Avenue
Dallas, TX 75209
3515 Inwood Road
Dallas, TX 75209
2001 Stony Creek Road Noblesville, IN 46060
11340 Philips Highway
Jacksonville, FL 32256
31975 US Highway 19 North Palm Harbor,
FL 34684
4500 US 1 South
Ft. Pierce, FL 34982
1295 Richmond Avenue
Charlottesville, VA 22911
1001 Southpoint Auto Park Boulevard Durham,
NC 27713
436 North McPherson Church Road
Fayetteville, NC 28303
256 Swain Street
Fayetteville, NC 28303
3908 West Wendover Avenue Greensboro, NC
27407
3902 West Wendover Avenue Greensboro, NC
27407
3710 West Wendover Avenue Greensboro, NC
27407
3633 West Wendover Avenue Greensboro, NC
27407
3900 West Wendover Avenue Greensboro, NC
27407
3607 West Wendover Avenue Greensboro, NC
27407
8704 West Broad Street Richmond, VA
23294
8712 West Broad Street Richmond, VA
23294
8710 West Broad Street Richmond, VA
23294
12100 Midlothian Turnpike
Midlothian, VA 23113
3477 East Conner Street Noblesville, IN 46060
8693 East US Highway 36
Avon, IN 46123
4105 West 96th Street Indianapolis, IN
46268
1920 North Lebanon Street Lebanon, IN
46052
745 East 56th Street Brownsburg, IN 46112
450 East Northfield Drive Brownsburg, IN
46112
3232 Harper Road
Indianapolis, IN 46240
9900 Pleasant Street
Noblesville, IN 46060
1650 West 104th Avenue Denver, CO 80234
2501 35th Avenue
Greeley, CO 80634
4720 West 24th Street Greeley, CO 80634
9899 East Arapahoe Road Centennial, CO
80112
9899 East Arapahoe Road Centennial, CO
80112
Exhibit 10.14
SEVERANCE PAY AGREEMENT
FOR KEY EMPLOYEE
This Agreement is entered into as of July 1, 2024 (the “Effective Date”) between Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. (“Asbury”)
and Dean Calloway (“Executive”).
IN CONSIDERATION of the promises and mutual covenants and agreements contained herein, the Asbury and Executive
agree as follows:
1.
Severance Pay Arrangement
If a Termination (as defined in Section 2 below) of Executive’s employment occurs at any time during Executive’s employment,
Asbury will pay Executive 12 months of Executive’s base salary as of the date of Termination (hereinafter such pay shall be
referred to as “Severance Pay”). The Severance Pay will be subject to required withholding and will be made by Asbury to
Executive monthly over the course of 12 months on the regular payroll dates beginning on the first regular payroll date after the
effective date of the release referenced in Section B below that Executive executes.
In addition to the payment of Severance Pay, if a Termination (as defined in Section 2 below) of Executive’s employment occurs
at any time during Executive’s employment with Asbury, to the extent that Executive participates in a bonus compensation plan at
the date of Termination, Asbury shall pay Executive a pro rata portion of that bonus for the year of the Termination equal to the
amount of the bonus that Executive would have received if Executive’s employment had not been terminated during such year,
multiplied by the percentage of such year that has expired through the date of Termination. Such bonus shall be paid at such time as
bonuses are paid under the bonus compensation plan to Asbury’s other employees whose employment was not terminated in such
year.
Asbury further agrees that, if Executive, upon a Termination (as defined in Section 2 below) of Executive’s employment occurs
at any time during Executive’s employment with Asbury, timely and properly elects COBRA for any medical, dental and vision
benefit plans in which Executive was participating immediately prior to the end of Executive’s employment with Asbury, Asbury
shall continue to pay its portion of the monthly premium for those COBRA-covered medical, dental and vision benefit plans for a
period of 12 months after the last day of Executive’s employment with Asbury. Notwithstanding the above, if Executive obtains
other employment (prior to the end of the 12 month COBRA reimbursement period) under which Executive is eligible to be
covered by benefits equal to the benefits in his COBRA-elected plans,
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Asbury’s obligation to reimburse Executive ceases upon Executive’s eligibility for such equal benefits.
Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, if Executive is determined to be a “specified employee” within the meaning of
Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended the (“Code”) and if one or more of the payments or benefits to be
received by Executive pursuant to this Agreement would be considered deferred compensation subject to Section 409A of the
Code, then no such payment shall be made or benefit provided until six (6) months following Executive’s date of Termination.
2.
Termination Triggering Severance Pay
A “Termination” triggering the Severance Pay set forth above in Section 1 is defined as a termination of Executive’s employment
with Asbury: (1) by Asbury without “cause”, or (2) by Executive because of (x) a material change in the geographic location at
which the Executive must perform Executive’s services (which shall in no event include a relocation of Executive’s current
principal place of business to a location less than 50 miles away), (y) a material diminution in Executive’s base compensation, or
(z) a material diminution in Executive’s authority, duties, or responsibilities. For avoidance of doubt, a “Termination” shall not
include a termination of Executive’s employment by Asbury for “cause” or due to Executive’s, death, disability, retirement or
voluntary resignation.
For the purposes of this Agreement, the definition of “cause” is: (a) Executive’s gross negligence or serious misconduct
(including, without limitation, any criminal, fraudulent or dishonest conduct) that is or may be injurious to Asbury; or (b)
Executive’s being convicted of, or entering a plea of nolo contendere to, any crime that constitutes a felony or involves moral
turpitude; or (c) Executive’s breach of Sections 3, 4 or 5 below; or (d) Executive’s willful and continued failure to perform
Executive’s duties on behalf of Asbury; or (e) Executive’s material breach of a written policy of Asbury. For purposes of this
Agreement, the definition of “disability” is a physical or mental disability or infirmity that prevents the performance by Executive
of his duties lasting (or likely to last, based on competent medical evidence presented to Asbury) for a continuous period of six
months or longer.
3.
Confidential Information and Nondisclosure Provision
As a condition to the receipt of the Severance Pay and benefits described in Section 1 above, during and after employment with
Asbury, Executive shall agree not to disclose to any person (other than to an employee or director of Asbury, or to Asbury’s
attorneys, accountants and other advisors or except as may be required by law) and not use to compete with Asbury any
confidential or proprietary information, knowledge or data that is not in the public domain that was obtained by Executive while
employed by Asbury regarding Asbury or any products, improvements, customers, methods of distribution, sales, prices, profits,
costs, contracts, suppliers, business prospects, business methods, techniques, research, trade secrets or know-how of Asbury
(collectively, “Confidential Information”). In the event that Executive’s employment with Asbury ends for any reason, Executive
will deliver to Asbury on or before the Executive’s
2 of 11
last day of employment all documents and data of any nature (whether in tangible or electronic form) pertaining to Executive’s
work with Asbury and will not take any documents or data or any reproduction, or any documents containing or pertaining to any
Confidential Information. Executive agrees that in the event of a breach by Executive of this provision, Asbury shall be entitled to
inform all potential or new employers of such breach and to cease payments and benefits that would otherwise be made pursuant to
Section 1 above, as well as to obtain injunctive relief and damages, including reasonable attorneys fees, and which may include
recovery of amounts paid to Executive under this Agreement.
4.
Non-Solicitation/Non-Hire of Employees
Executive agrees that, during his employment at Asbury and for a 12-month period after the end of his employment with Asbury
for any reason, he will not, directly or indirectly, solicit, recruit or hire any employee of Asbury (or any person who was an
employee of Asbury during the 12 month period preceding the last day of Executive’s employment with Asbury) or encourage any
such employee to terminate employment with Asbury. The restrictions set forth in this Section 4 shall apply to the following
geographic territory: the Area. As used in this Section 4, “Area” means the combined region generated by all regions within a
seventy-five-mile radius of either (i) the Company’s headquarters or (ii) any dealership or other Company facility owned by or
affiliated with the Company or its Affiliates, as of the last date of Executive’s employment with the Company. For purposes of this
Section 4, Executive acknowledges and agrees that the Company and its Affiliates conduct business in the Area and that the Area is
a reasonable geographic limitation.
5.
Covenant Not to Compete
Executive agrees that, during his employment at Asbury and for a 12-month period after the end of his/her employment with
Asbury for any reason, he/she will not (except on behalf of or with the prior written consent of Asbury, which consent may be
withheld in Asbury’s sole discretion):
(a)
provide services of a leadership, management, executive, operational, or advisory capacity and/or participate in the
ownership of or provide financial backing to an automotive dealership that is located within a fifty-mile radius of any address set
forth on Exhibit A (the “Area”);
(b)
provide senior/corporate level leadership, executive, operational, or advisory services to any corporate competitor of
Asbury who owns or operates one or more automotive dealerships within the Area; and
(c)
provide services of a leadership, management, executive, operational or advisory capacity for anyone or any
business whose focus is buying, conglomerating, or otherwise acquiring one or more automotive dealerships that are located within
the Area.
3 of 11
For purposes of this Section 5, Executive acknowledges and agrees that Asbury conducts business in the Area and that the Area
is a reasonable geographic limitation.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, Asbury hereby agrees that the foregoing covenant shall
not be deemed breached as a result of the passive ownership by Executive of: (i) less than an aggregate of 5% of any class of stock
of a business that competes with Asbury; or (ii) less than an aggregate of 10% in value of any instrument of indebtedness of a
business that competes with Asbury. Asbury further agrees that nothing in this Section 5 prohibits Executive from accepting
employment from, and performing services for, businesses engaged in the finance industry, and businesses engaged in the
manufacturing and/or sale of automobile parts or the provision of automotive service, provided such businesses do not also engage
in the retail of automobiles within the Area. By way of example, nothing in this Section 5 would prohibit Executive from working
with such businesses as American General Finance, NAPA Auto Parts or Goodyear.
Within one day of the end of Executive’s employment with Asbury for any reason, Executive agrees to re-confirm his
commitment to the post-employment restrictive covenants in this Agreement. Executive further agrees that, as part of that re-
confirmation, the term “Area” and Exhibit A hereto may be amended by Asbury, but only to the extent necessary to list the
addresses of Asbury’s headquarters and any automotive dealerships that Asbury owns and/or operates as of the last day of
Executive’s employment with Asbury.
6.
Construction/Enforcement of Post-Employment Covenants
Executive agrees that the provisions of Sections 3, 4 and 5 are reasonable and properly required for the adequate protection of
the business and the goodwill of Asbury. However, if a judicial determination is made that any of the provisions of Sections 3, 4 or
5 constitutes an unreasonable or otherwise unenforceable restriction against Executive, such provision(s) shall be modified or
severed so as to permit enforcement of the provision(s) to the extent reasonable.
7.
Violation of Post-Employment Covenants
Executive agrees that, in the event of a material breach by Executive of any Section of this Agreement, including Sections
3, 4, or 5, Asbury shall be entitled to: (i) inform all potential or new employers of such breach; (ii) cease payments and benefits that
would otherwise be made pursuant to Section 1 above (and in lieu of such payments and benefits pay Executive five hundred
dollars ($500.00)); (iii) obtain injunctive relief and damages, including reasonable attorney’s fees; and (iv) recover the amounts
paid to Executive under this Agreement (other than the above-referenced $500.00) during any period of material breach by
Executive. To the extent that Executive is determined through agreement or resolution of any pending claim to not have violated
any covenant at issue, he/she shall receive any and all severance that has not been paid under the Agreement and/or which was
recovered from Executive under this Section 7.
GENERAL PROVISIONS
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A.
Employment is At Will
Executive and Asbury acknowledge and agree that Executive is an “at will” employee, which means that either Executive or
Asbury may terminate the employment relationship at any time, for any reason, with or without cause or notice, and that nothing in
this Agreement shall be construed as an express or implied contract of employment.
B.
Execution of Release
Executive agrees that, as a condition to the receipt of the Severance Pay and other compensation and insurance benefits described
in Section 1 above, Executive shall execute a release of all claims against Asbury (and its corporate parents, subsidiaries,
franchisors, franchisees, management companies, divisions, and affiliates) and the past, present and future officers, directors,
agents, officials, employees, insurers and attorneys of Asbury (and its corporate parents, subsidiaries, franchisors, franchisees,
management companies, divisions, and affiliates) arising out of Executive’s employment or the end of his employment with
Asbury, such release to not be revoked by Executive and to completely waive and release any claim of discrimination, harassment
or wrongful discharge under local, state or federal law.
C.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Any disputes arising under or in connection with this Agreement shall be resolved by binding arbitration before an arbitrator
(who shall be an attorney with at least ten years’ experience in employment law) in the city where Executive was employed with
Asbury and in accordance with the rules and procedures of the most recent employment rules of the American Arbitration
Association. Each party may choose to retain legal counsel and shall pay its own attorneys’ fees, regardless of the outcome of the
arbitration. Executive may be required to pay a filing fee limited to the equivalent cost of filing in the court of jurisdiction. Asbury
will pay the fees and costs of conducting the arbitration. Judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrator may be entered in any
court of jurisdiction.
D.
Non-Disparagement
Executive agrees not to make any disclosures, issue any statements or otherwise cause to be disclosed any information
which is designed, intended or might reasonably be anticipated to disparage Asbury, its officers or directors, its business, services,
products, technologies and/or personnel. Nothing in this section is intended, nor shall be construed, to: (i) prohibit Executive from
any communications to, or participation in any investigation or proceeding conducted by, any governmental agency with
jurisdiction concerning the terms, conditions and privileges of employment or jurisdiction over Asbury’s business; (ii) interfere
with, restrain, or prevent Executive’s communications regarding the terms and conditions of employment; or (iii) prevent Executive
from otherwise engaging in any legally protected activity. Nothing in this Agreement shall prohibit Executive from reporting or
testifying about possible violations of any law or regulation, including unlawful employment practices, to any governmental agency
or entity or
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making other disclosures that are protected under the whistleblower provisions of federal or state laws or regulations.
E.
Other Provisions
(a)
This Agreement shall be binding upon the heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns of Executive and
Asbury, including any successor to or assign of Asbury.
(b)
Upon the end of Executive’s employment with Asbury for any reason, the provisions of this Agreement shall survive
to the extent necessary to give effect to the provisions herein, including Sections 3, 4 and 5.
(c)
The headings and captions are provided for reference and convenience only and shall not be considered part of this
Agreement.
(d)
Executive also covenants to reasonably cooperate with Asbury if Executive is needed as a witness in any litigation
or legal matters involving Asbury.
(e)
Any notice or other communication required or permitted to be delivered under this Agreement shall be (i) in
writing, (ii) delivered personally, by nationally recognized overnight courier service or by certified or registered mail, first-class
postage prepaid and return receipt requested, (iii) deemed to have been received on the date of delivery or on the third business day
after mailing, and (iv) addressed as follows (or to such other address as the party entitled to notice shall later designate in
accordance with these terms):
If to Asbury: Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
c/o The Office of the General Counsel
2905 Premiere Parkway, Suite 300
Duluth, GA 30097
If to Executive: To the most recent address of Executive set forth in the personnel records of Asbury.
(f)
This Agreement supersedes any and all prior agreements between Asbury and Executive relating to payments upon
Termination of employment or Severance Pay and may only be modified in a writing signed by Asbury and Executive.
(g)
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Georgia.
(h)
All payments hereunder shall be subject to any required withholding of federal, state, local and foreign taxes
pursuant to any applicable law or regulation.
(i)
If any provision of this Agreement shall be held invalid or unenforceable, such holding shall not affect any other
provisions, and this Agreement shall be construed and enforced
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as if such provisions had not been included. No provision of this Agreement shall be waived unless the waiver is agreed to in
writing and signed by Executive and the Chief Human Resources Officer of Asbury. No waiver by either party of any breach of, or
of compliance with, any condition or provision of this Agreement by the other party shall be considered a waiver of any other
condition or provision or of the same condition or provision at another time.
(j)
The parties hereto acknowledge and agree that, to the extent applicable, this Agreement shall be interpreted in
accordance with, and incorporate the terms and conditions required by, Section 409A of the Code and the Department of Treasury
regulations and other interpretive guidance issued thereunder. Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, in
the event that Asbury determines that any amounts payable hereunder will be immediately taxable to Executive under Section
409A of the Code and related Department of Treasury guidance, Asbury and Executive shall cooperate in good faith to (x) adopt
such amendments to this Agreement and appropriate policies and procedures, including amendments and policies with retroactive
effect, that they mutually determine to be necessary or appropriate to preserve the intended tax treatment of the benefits provided
by this Agreement, to preserve the economic benefits of this Agreement and to avoid less favorable accounting or tax consequences
for Asbury and/or (y) take such other actions as mutually determined to be necessary or appropriate to exempt the amounts payable
hereunder from Section 409A of the Code or to comply with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code and thereby avoid the
application of penalty taxes thereunder.
This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which
together will constitute one and the same instrument.
AGREED TO AS OF July 1, 2024
EXECUTIVE:
ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE GROUP, INC.
/s/ Dean Calloway
/s/ David W. Hult
Name: Dean Calloway
Name: David W. Hult
Title: Senior Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary
Title: President & CEO
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EXHIBIT A
As used in the Severance Pay Agreement, “Area” means a 50-mile radius from any of the following addresses:
Address
City
State
Zip
2905 Premiere Parkway
Duluth
GA
30097
1355 Cobb Parkway South
Marietta
GA
30060
11505 Alpharetta Highway
Roswell
GA
30076
1606 Church Street
Decatur
GA
30033
4200 Jonesboro Road
Union City
GA
30291
4197 Jonesboro Road
Union City
GA
30291
7909 Mall Parkway
Lithonia
GA
30038
2550 The Nalley Way
Atlanta
GA
30360
2020 Cobb Parkway
Marietta
GA
30080
7849 Mall Parkway
Lithonia
GA
30038
2750 South Cobb Parkway
Smyrna
GA
30080
980 Mansell Road
Roswell
GA
30076
7969 Mall Parkway
Lithonia
GA
30038
11130 Alpharetta Highway
Roswell
GA
30076
10995 Westside Parkway
Alpharetta
GA
30009
1550 Mansell Road
Alpharetta
GA
30009
4115 Jonesboro Road
Union City
GA
30291
2501 35th Avenue
Greeley
CO
80634
9899 East Arapahoe Road
Centennial
CO
80112
9899 East Arapahoe Road
Centennial
CO
80112
1650 West 104th Avenue
Denver
CO
80234
4720 West 24th Street
Greeley
CO
80634
1920 North Lebanon Street
Lebanon
IN
46052
745 East 56th Street
Brownsburg
IN
46112
2001 Stony Creek Road
Noblesville
IN
46060
3477 East Conner Street
Noblesville
IN
46060
450 East Northfield Drive
Brownsburg
IN
46112
8693 East US Highway 36
Avon
IN
46123
3232 Harper Road
Indianapolis
IN
46240
4105 West 96th Street
Indianapolis
IN
46268
9900 Pleasant Street
Noblesville
IN
46060
2655 North Volusia Avenue
Orange City
FL
32763
2308 South Woodland Boulevard
Deland
FL
32720
2677 North Volusia Avenue
Orange City
FL
32763
4400 South US Highway 1
Fort Pierce
FL
34982
9650 Atlantic Boulevard
Jacksonville
FL
32225
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31975 US Highway 19 North
Palm Harbor
FL
34684
10859 Philips Highway
Jacksonville
FL
32256
4429 US 1 South
Fort Pierce
FL
33954
4500 US 1 South
Fort Pierce
FL
34982
11003 Atlantic Boulevard
Jacksonville
FL
32225
11051 South Orange Blossom Trail
Orlando
FL
32837
10600 Atlantic Boulevard
Jacksonville
FL
32225
11340 Philips Highway
Jacksonville
FL
32256
10880 Philips Highway
Jacksonville
FL
32256
2925 US 1 South
St. Augustine
FL
32086
4450 US 1 South
Fort Pierce
FL
34982
7245 Blanding Boulevard
Jacksonville
FL
32244
1107 West St.
Annapolis
MD
21401
4045 Lee Hwy.
Arlington
VA
22207
6970 Security Blvd.
Baltimore
MD
21244
6631 Baltimore National Pike
Catonsville
MD
21228
12421 Auto Dr.
Clarksville
MD
21029
6730 Ocean Gateway
Easton
MD
21601
1051 East Broad St.
Falls Church
VA
22044
9610 Reisterstown Rd.
Owings Mills
MD
21117
46869 Harry Byrd Hwy.
Sterling
VA
20164
2000 Chain Bridge Rd.
Vienna
VA
22182
2050 Chain Bridge Rd.
Vienna
VA
22182
8610 Leesburg Pike
Vienna
VA
22182
375 Baltimore Blvd.
Westminster
MD
21157
10207 Philadelphia Rd.
White Marsh
MD
21162
5395 Nottingham Dr.
White Marsh
MD
21162
14530 Richmond Hwy
Woodbridge
VA
22191
13779 Noblewood Plaza
Woodbridge
VA
22193
1880 Opitz Blvd.
Woodbridge
VA
22191
14208 Richmond Hwy.
Woodbridge
VA
22191
755 North 500 West
West Bountiful
UT
84010
8528 Lomas Boulevard NE
Albuquerque
NM
87110
10055 West Papago Freeway
Avondale
AZ
85323
10101 West Papago Freeway
Avondale
AZ
85323
9820 Coors Boulevard NW
Albuquerque
NM
87114
5995 Alameda Boulevard NE
Albuquerque
NM
87113
10030 East Arapahoe Road
Centennial
CO
80112
10205 West Papago Freeway
Avondale
AZ
85323
222 South Auto Drive
Boise
ID
83709
11196 West Fairview Avenue
Boise
ID
83713
5500 South State Street
Murray
UT
84107
1700 West 6th Street
Corona
CA
92882
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350 South Havana Street
Aurora
CO
80012
2727 South Havana Street
Aurora
CO
80014
7710 West Gratz Drive
Boise
ID
83709
5808 South State Street
Murray
UT
84107
8425 W Bell Road
Peoria
AZ
85382
10905 South Auto Mall Drive
Sandy
UT
84070
544 South Lindon Park Drive
Lindon
UT
84042
5686 South State Street
Murray
UT
84107
11595 West 6th Avenue
Lakewood
CO
80215
8665 West Bell Road
Peoria
AZ
85382
11548 South Lone Peak Parkway
Draper
UT
84020
460 East Auto Center Drive
Mesa
AZ
85204
2025 Riverview Auto Drive
Mesa
AZ
85201
5650 South State Street
Murray
UT
84107
1320 Plum Valley Lane
Highlands Ranch
CO
80129
1825 North University Parkway
Provo
UT
84604
2125 North University Parkway
Provo
UT
84604
17336 North 84th Lane
Peoria
AZ
85382
1995 North University Parkway
Provo
UT
84604
8633 West Bell Road
Peoria
AZ
85382
7201 & 7501 Lomas Boulevard NE
Albuquerque
NM
87110
9733 Coors Boulevard NW
Albuquerque
NM
87114
1481 West Riverdale Road
Riverdale
UT
84405
13165 North Autoshow Avenue
Surprise
AZ
85388
11442 South Lone Peak Parkway
Draper
UT
84020
1340 South 500 West
Salt Lake City
UT
84115
1208 West 3rd Avenue
Spokane
WA
99201
8800 Lomas NE
Albuquerque
NM
87112
2500 West 104th Avenue
Thornton
CO
80234
7800 East 22nd Street
Tucson
AZ
85710
4220 East 22nd Street
Tucson
AZ
85711
6800 Federal Boulevard
Lemon Grove
CA
91945
900 West AutoMall Drive
Tucson
AZ
85705
10990 South Automall Drive
Sandy
UT
84070
8303 West Colfax Avenue
Lakewood
CO
80214
4201 Beltway Place
Arlington
TX
76018
6113 Lemmon Avenue
Dallas
TX
75209
6107 Lemmon Avenue
Dallas
TX
75209
3515 Inwood Road
Dallas
TX
75209
1300 East State Highway 114
Dallas
TX
75261
5601 Bryant Irvin Road
Fort Worth
TX
76132
6785 Dallas Parkway
Plano
TX
75024
901 East State Highway 114
Grapevine
TX
76051
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2668 Laurens Road
Greenville
SC
29607
2686 Laurens Road
Greenville
SC
29607
2700 Laurns Road
Greenville
SC
29607
2712 Laurens Road
Greenville
SC
29607
11830 Olive Boulevard
Creve Coeur
MO
63141
11910 Olive Boulevard
Creve Coeur
MO
63141
755 North New Ballas
Creve Coeur
MO
63141
11654 Olive Boulevard
Creve Coeur
MO
63141
951 Technology Drive
O'Fallon
MO
63368
444 South Havana Street
Aurora
CO
80012
801 Denver West Colorado Mills Boulevard
Lakewood
CO
80401
8337 Rasberry Way
Frederick
CO
80504
15000 West Colfax Avenue
Lakewood
CO
80401
780 Denver West Colorado Mills Boulevard
Lakewood
CO
80401
7999 West Colfax Avenue
Lakewood
CO
80214
5500 South Broadway
Littleton
CO
80121
8177 Raspberry Way
Frederick
CO
80504
9207 Adamo Drive
Tampa
FL
33619
4600 North Dale Mabry Highway
Tampa
FL
33614
4400 North Dale Mabry Highway
Tampa
FL
33614
3800 West Hillsborough Avenue
Tampa
FL
33614
3810 West Hillsborough Avenue
Tampa
FL
33614
9205 Adamo Drive
Tampa
FL
33619
9210 Adamo Drive
Tampa
FL
33619
300 West Loop 820 South
Ft. Worth
TX
76108
1601 North Dallas Parkway
(7200 State Highway 121)
Frisco
TX
75034
3700 West Airport Freeway
Irving
TX
75062
6645 Dallas Parkway
Plano
TX
75024
6400 TX-121
Frisco
TX
75034
8704 West Broad Street
Richmond
VA
23294
12100 Midlothian Turnpike
Midlothian
VA
23113
8710 West Broad Street
Richmond
VA
23294
8712 West Broad Street
Richmond
VA
23294
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Exhibit 10.17
SEVERANCE PAY AGREEMENT FOR KEY EMPLOYEE
This Agreement is entered into as of March 8, 2022 (the “Effective Date”) between Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
(“Asbury”) and Miran Maric (“Executive”).
IN CONSIDERATION of the promises and mutual covenants and agreements contained herein, the Asbury and
Executive agree as follows:
1.
Severance Pay Arrangement
If a Termination (as defined in Section 2 below) of Executive’s employment occurs at any time during Executive’s
employment, Asbury will pay Executive 12 months of Executive’s base salary as of the date of Termination (hereinafter such pay
shall be referred to as “Severance Pay”). The Severance Pay will be subject to required withholding and will be made by Asbury
to Executive monthly over the course of 12 months on the regular payroll dates beginning on the first regular payroll date after
the effective date of the release referenced in Section B below that Executive executes.
In addition to the payment of Severance Pay, if a Termination (as defined in Section 2 below) of Executive’s employment
occurs at any time during Executive’s employment with Asbury, to the extent that Executive participates in a bonus
compensation plan at the date of Termination, Asbury shall pay Executive a pro rata portion of that bonus for the year of the
Termination equal to the amount of the bonus that Executive would have received if Executive’s employment had not been
terminated during such year, multiplied by the percentage of such year that has expired through the date of Termination. Such
bonus shall be paid at such time as bonuses are paid under the bonus compensation plan to Asbury’s other employees whose
employment was not terminated in such year.
Asbury further agrees that, if Executive, upon a Termination (as defined in Section 2 below) of Executive’s employment
occurs at any time during Executive’s employment with Asbury, timely and properly elects COBRA for any medical, dental and
vision benefit plans in which Executive was participating immediately prior to the end of Executive’s employment with Asbury,
Asbury shall continue to pay its portion of the monthly premium for those COBRA- covered medical, dental and vision benefit
plans for a period of 12 months after the last day of Executive’s employment with Asbury. Notwithstanding the above, if
Executive obtains other employment (prior to the end of the 12 month COBRA reimbursement period) under which Executive is
eligible to be covered by benefits equal to the benefits in his COBRA-elected plans, Asbury’s obligation to reimburse Executive
ceases upon Executive’s eligibility for such equal benefits.
Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, if Executive is determined to be a “specified employee” within the
meaning of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended the (“Code”) and if one or more of the payments or
benefits to be received by Executive pursuant to this Agreement would be considered deferred compensation subject to Section
409A of the Code, then no such payment shall be made or benefit provided until six (6) months following Executive’s date of
Termination.
2.
Termination Triggering Severance Pay
A “Termination” triggering the Severance Pay set forth above in Section 1 is defined as a termination of Executive’s
employment with Asbury: (1) by Asbury without “cause”, or (2) by Executive because of (x) a material change in the geographic
location at which the Executive must perform Executive’s services (which shall in no event include a relocation of Executive’s
current principal place of business to a location less than 50 miles away), (y) a material diminution in Executive’s base
compensation, or (z) a material diminution in Executive’s authority, duties, or responsibilities. For avoidance of doubt, a
“Termination” shall not include a termination of Executive’s employment by Asbury for “cause” or due to Executive’s, death,
disability, retirement or voluntary resignation.
For the purposes of this Agreement, the definition of “cause” is: (a) Executive’s gross negligence or serious misconduct
(including, without limitation, any criminal, fraudulent or dishonest conduct) that is or may be injurious to Asbury; or (b)
Executive’s being convicted of, or entering a plea of nolo contendere to, any crime that constitutes a felony or involves moral
turpitude; or (c) Executive’s breach of Sections 3, 4 or 5 below; or (d) Executive’s willful and continued failure to perform
Executive’s duties on behalf of Asbury; or (e) Executive’s material breach of a written policy of Asbury. For purposes of this
Agreement, the definition of “disability” is a physical or mental disability or infirmity that prevents the performance by
Executive of his duties lasting (or likely to last, based on competent medical evidence presented to Asbury) for a continuous
period of six months or longer.
3.
Confidential Information and Nondisclosure Provision
As a condition to the receipt of the Severance Pay and benefits described in Section 1 above, during and after
employment with Asbury, Executive shall agree not to disclose to any person (other than to an employee or director of Asbury, or
to Asbury’s attorneys, accountants and other advisors or except as may be required by law) and not use to compete with Asbury
any confidential or proprietary information, knowledge or data that is not in the public domain that was obtained by Executive
while employed by Asbury regarding Asbury or any products, improvements, customers, methods of distribution, sales, prices,
profits, costs, contracts, suppliers, business prospects, business methods, techniques, research, trade secrets or know-how of
Asbury (collectively, “Confidential Information”). In the event that Executive’s employment with Asbury ends for any reason,
Executive will deliver to Asbury on or before the Executive’s last day of employment all documents and data of any nature
(whether in tangible or electronic form) pertaining to Executive’s work with Asbury and will not take any documents or data or
any reproduction, or any documents containing or pertaining to any Confidential Information. Executive agrees that in the event
of a breach by Executive of this provision, Asbury shall be entitled to inform all potential or new employers of such breach and
to cease payments and
benefits that would otherwise be made pursuant to Section 1 above, as well as to obtain injunctive relief and damages, including
reasonable attorneys fees, and which may include recovery of amounts paid to Executive under this Agreement.
4.
Non-Solicitation/Non-Hire of Employees
Executive agrees that, during his employment at Asbury and for a 12-month period after the end of his employment with
Asbury for any reason, he will not, directly or indirectly, solicit, recruit or hire any employee of Asbury (or any person who was
an employee of Asbury during the 12 month period preceding the last day of Executive’s employment with Asbury) or encourage
any such employee to terminate employment with Asbury.
5.
Covenant Not to Compete
Executive agrees that, during his employment at Asbury and for a 12-month period after the end of his employment with
Asbury for any reason, he will not (except on behalf of or with the prior written consent of Asbury, which consent may be
withheld in Asbury’s sole discretion):
(a)
provide services of a leadership, management, executive, operational, or advisory capacity and/or participate in the
ownership of or provide financial backing to an automotive dealership that is located within a fifty-mile radius of any address set
forth on Exhibit A (the “Area”);
(b)
provide senior/corporate level leadership, executive, operational, or advisory services to any corporate competitor
of Asbury who owns or operates one or more automotive dealerships within the Area; and
(c)
provide services of a leadership, management, executive, operational or advisory capacity for anyone or any
business whose focus is buying, conglomerating, or otherwise acquiring one or more automotive dealerships that are located
within the Area.
For purposes of this Section 5, Executive acknowledges and agrees that Asbury conducts business in the Area and that
the Area is a reasonable geographic limitation.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, Asbury hereby agrees that the foregoing covenant
shall not be deemed breached as a result of the passive ownership by Executive of: (i) less than an aggregate of 5% of any class
of stock of a business that competes with Asbury; or (ii) less than an aggregate of 10% in value of any instrument of
indebtedness of a business that competes with Asbury. Asbury further agrees that nothing in this Section 5 prohibits Executive
from accepting employment from, and performing services for, businesses engaged in the finance industry, and businesses
engaged in the manufacturing and/or sale of automobile parts or the provision of automotive service, provided such businesses
do not also engage in the retail of automobiles within the Area. By way of example, nothing in this Section 5 would prohibit
Executive from working with such businesses as American General Finance, NAPA Auto Parts or Goodyear.
Within one day of the end of Executive’s employment with Asbury for any reason, Executive agrees to re-confirm his
commitment to the post-employment restrictive covenants in this Agreement. Executive further agrees that, as part of that re-
confirmation, the term “Area” and Exhibit A hereto may be amended by Asbury, but only to the extent necessary to list the
addresses of Asbury’s headquarters and any automotive dealerships that Asbury owns and/or operates as of the last day of
Executive’s employment with Asbury.
6.
Construction/Enforcement of Post-Employment Covenants
Executive agrees that the provisions of Sections 3, 4 and 5 are reasonable and properly required for the adequate
protection of the business and the goodwill of Asbury. However, if a judicial determination is made that any of the provisions of
Sections 3, 4 or 5 constitutes an unreasonable or otherwise unenforceable restriction against Executive, such provision(s) shall be
modified or severed so as to permit enforcement of the provision(s) to the extent reasonable.
7.
Violation of Post-Employment Covenants
Executive agrees that, in the event of a material breach by Executive of any Section of this Agreement, including
Sections 3, 4, or 5, Asbury shall be entitled to: (i) inform all potential or new employers of such breach; (ii) cease payments and
benefits that would otherwise be made pursuant to Section 1 above (and in lieu of such payments and benefits pay Executive five
hundred dollars ($500.00)); (iii) obtain injunctive relief and damages, including reasonable attorney’s fees; and (iv) recover the
amounts paid to Executive under this Agreement (other than the above- referenced $500.00) during any period of material breach
by Executive. To the extent that Executive is determined through agreement or resolution of any pending claim to not have
violated any covenant at issue, he shall receive any and all severance that has not been paid under the Agreement and/or which
was recovered from Executive under this Section 7.
GENERAL PROVISIONS
A.
Employment is At Will
Executive and Asbury acknowledge and agree that Executive is an “at will” employee, which means that either Executive
or Asbury may terminate the employment relationship at any time, for any reason, with or without cause or notice, and that
nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as an express or implied contract of employment.
B.
Execution of Release
Executive agrees that, as a condition to the receipt of the Severance Pay and other compensation and insurance benefits
described in Section 1 above, Executive shall execute a release of all claims against Asbury (and its corporate parents,
subsidiaries, franchisors, franchisees, management companies, divisions, and affiliates) and the past, present and future officers,
directors, agents, officials, employees, insurers and attorneys of Asbury (and its corporate parents, subsidiaries, franchisors,
franchisees, management companies, divisions, and affiliates) arising out of Executive’s employment or the end of his
employment with Asbury, such release to
not be revoked by Executive and to completely waive and release any claim of discrimination, harassment or wrongful discharge
under local, state or federal law.
C.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Any disputes arising under or in connection with this Agreement shall be resolved by binding arbitration before an
arbitrator (who shall be an attorney with at least ten years’ experience in employment law) in the city where Executive was
employed with Asbury and in accordance with the rules and procedures of the most recent employment rules of the American
Arbitration Association. Each party may choose to retain legal counsel and shall pay its own attorneys’ fees, regardless of the
outcome of the arbitration. Executive may be required to pay a filing fee limited to the equivalent cost of filing in the court of
jurisdiction. Asbury will pay the fees and costs of conducting the arbitration. Judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrator
may be entered in any court of jurisdiction.
D.
Non-Disparagement
Executive agrees not to make any disclosures, issue any statements or otherwise cause to be disclosed any information
which is designed, intended or might reasonably be anticipated to disparage Asbury, its officers or directors, its business,
services, products, technologies and/or personnel. Nothing in this section is intended, nor shall be construed, to: (i) prohibit
Executive from any communications to, or participation in any investigation or proceeding conducted by, any governmental
agency with jurisdiction concerning the terms, conditions and privileges of employment or jurisdiction over Asbury’s business;
(ii) interfere with, restrain, or prevent Executive’s communications regarding the terms and conditions of employment; or (iii)
prevent Executive from otherwise engaging in any legally protected activity.
E.
Other Provisions
(a)
This Agreement shall be binding upon the heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns of Executive and
Asbury, including any successor to or assign of Asbury.
(b)
Upon the end of Executive’s employment with Asbury for any reason, the provisions of this Agreement shall
survive to the extent necessary to give effect to the provisions herein, including Sections 3, 4 and 5.
(c)
The headings and captions are provided for reference and convenience only and shall not be considered part of this
Agreement.
(d)
Executive also covenants to reasonably cooperate with Asbury if Executive is needed as a witness in any litigation
or legal matters involving Asbury.
(e)
Any notice or other communication required or permitted to be delivered under this Agreement shall be (i) in
writing, (ii) delivered personally, by nationally recognized overnight
courier service or by certified or registered mail, first-class postage prepaid and return receipt requested, (iii) deemed to have
been received on the date of delivery or on the third business day
after mailing, and (iv) addressed as follows (or to such other address as the party entitled to notice shall later designate in
accordance with these terms):
If to Asbury: Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
c/o The Office of the General Counsel 2905 Premiere Parkway, Suite 300
Duluth, GA 30097
If to Executive: To the most recent address of Executive set forth in the personnel records of Asbury.
(f)
This Agreement supersedes any and all prior agreements between Asbury and Executive relating to payments upon
Termination of employment or Severance Pay and may only be modified in a writing signed by Asbury and Executive.
(g)
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Georgia.
(h)
All payments hereunder shall be subject to any required withholding of federal, state, local and foreign taxes
pursuant to any applicable law or regulation.
(i)
If any provision of this Agreement shall be held invalid or unenforceable, such holding shall not affect any other
provisions, and this Agreement shall be construed and enforced as if such provisions had not been included. No provision of this
Agreement shall be waived unless the waiver is agreed to in writing and signed by Executive and the Chief Human Resources
Officer of Asbury. No waiver by either party of any breach of, or of compliance with, any condition or provision of this
Agreement by the other party shall be considered a waiver of any other condition or provision or of the same condition or
provision at another time.
(j)
The parties hereto acknowledge and agree that, to the extent applicable, this Agreement shall be interpreted in
accordance with, and incorporate the terms and conditions required by, Section 409A of the Code and the Department of
Treasury regulations and other interpretive guidance issued thereunder. Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the
contrary, in the event that Asbury determines that any amounts payable hereunder will be immediately taxable to Executive
under Section 409A of the Code and related Department of Treasury guidance, Asbury and Executive shall cooperate in good
faith to (x) adopt such amendments to this Agreement and appropriate policies and procedures, including amendments and
policies with retroactive effect, that they mutually determine to be necessary or appropriate to preserve the intended tax treatment
of the benefits provided by this Agreement, to preserve the economic benefits of this Agreement and to avoid less favorable
accounting or tax consequences for Asbury and/or (y) take such other actions as mutually determined to be necessary or
appropriate to exempt the amounts payable hereunder from Section 409A of the Code or to
comply with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code and thereby avoid the application of penalty taxes thereunder.
This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of
which together will constitute one and the same instrument.
AGREED TO AS OF March 8, 2022
EXECUTIVE:
ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE GROUP, INC.
/s/ Miran Maric
/s/ David W. Hult
Name: Miran Maric
Name: David W. Hult
Title: Senior Vice President, Strategy & Innovation
Title: President & CEO
EXHIBIT A
As used in the Severance Pay Agreement, “Area” means a 50-mile radius from any of the following addresses:
Address
City
State
Zip
2905 Premiere Parkway
Duluth
GA
30097
1355 Cobb Parkway South
Marietta
GA
30060
11505 Alpharetta Highway
Roswell
GA
30076
1606 Church Street
Decatur
GA
30033
4200 Jonesboro Road
City
GA
30291
4197 Jonesboro Road
City
GA
30291
7909 Mall Parkway
Lithonia
GA
30038
2550 The Nalley Way
Atlanta
GA
30360
2020 Cobb Parkway
Marietta
GA
30080
7849 Mall Parkway
Lithonia
GA
30038
2750 South Cobb Parkway
Smyrna
GA
30080
980 Mansell Road
Roswell
GA
30076
1310 Buford Highway
Cumming
GA
30041
7969 Mall Parkway
Lithonia
GA
30038
11130 Alpharetta Highway
Roswell
GA
30076
10995 Westside Parkway
Alpharetta
GA
30009
1550 Mansell Road
Alpharetta
GA
30009
4115 Jonesboro Road
City
GA
30291
2501 35th Avenue
Greeley
CO
80634
9899 East Arapahoe Road
Centennial
CO
80112
9899 East Arapahoe Road
Centennial
CO
80112
1650 West 104th Avenue
Denver
CO
80234
4720 West 24th Street
Greeley
CO
80634
1920 North Lebanon Street
Lebanon
IN
46052
745 East 56th Street
Brownsburg
IN
46112
2001 Stony Creek Road
Noblesville
IN
46060
3477 East Conner Street
Noblesville
IN
46060
450 East Northfield Drive
Brownsburg
IN
46112
8693 East US Highway 36
Avon
IN
46123
3232 Harper Road
Indianapolis
IN
46240
4105 West 96th Street
Indianapolis
IN
46268
9900 Pleasant Street
Noblesville
IN
46060
2655 North Volusia Avenue
Orange City
FL
32763
2308 South Woodland Boulevard
Deland
FL
32720
2677 North Volusia Avenue
Orange City
FL
32763
4400 South US Highway 1
Fort Pierce
FL
34982
9650 Atlantic Boulevard
Jacksonville
FL
32225
31975 US Highway 19 North
Palm Harbor
FL
34684
10859 Philips Highway
Jacksonville
FL
32256
Address
City
State
Zip
4429 US 1 South
Fort Pierce
FL
33954
4500 US 1 South
Fort Pierce
FL
34982
11003 Atlantic Boulevard
Jacksonville
FL
32225
11051 South Orange Blossom Trail
Orlando
FL
32837
10600 Atlantic Boulevard
Jacksonville
FL
32225
11340 Philips Highway
Jacksonville
FL
32256
10880 Philips Highway
Jacksonville
FL
32256
2925 US 1 South
St. Augustine
FL
32086
4450 US 1 South
Fort Pierce
FL
34982
7245 Blanding Boulevard
Jacksonville
FL
32244
755 North 500 West
West Bountiful
UT
84010
1128 West 3rd Avenue
Spokane
WA
99201
8528 Lomas Boulevard NE
Albuquerque
NM
87110
10055 West Papago Freeway
Avondale
AZ
85323
10101 West Papago Freeway
Avondale
AZ
85323
9820 Coors Boulevard NW
Albuquerque
NM
87114
5995 Alameda Boulevard NE
Albuquerque
NM
87113
10030 East Arapahoe Road
Centennial
CO
80112
10401 Copper Avenue NE
Albuquerque
NM
87123
10205 West Papago Freeway
Avondale
AZ
85323
222 South Auto Drive
Boise
ID
83709
11196 West Fairview Avenue
Boise
ID
83713
2465 48th Court
Boulder
CO
80301
9380 West Fairview Avenue
Boise
ID
83704
5500 South State Street
Murray
UT
84107
1700 West 6th Street
Corona
CA
92882
350 South Havana Street
Aurora
CO
80012
2727 South Havana Street
Aurora
CO
80014
2400 West 104th Avenue
Denver
CO
80234
7710 West Gratz Drive
Boise
ID
83709
5808 South State Street
Murray
UT
84107
8425 W Bell Road
Peoria
AZ
85382
10905 South Auto Mall Drive
Sandy
UT
84070
5686 South State Street
Murray
UT
84107
544 South Lindon Park Drive
Lindon
UT
84042
11595 West 6th Avenue
Lakewood
CO
80215
5115 New Car Drive
Colorado Springs
CO
80923
8665 West Bell Road
Peoria
AZ
85382
11548 South Lone Peak Parkway
Draper
UT
84020
460 East Auto Center Drive
Mesa
AZ
85204
2025 Riverview Auto Drive
Mesa
AZ
85201
5650 South State Street
Murray
UT
84107
1320 Plum Valley Lane
Highlands Ranch
CO
80129
Address
City
State
Zip
1825 North University Parkway
Provo
UT
84604
2125 North University Parkway
Provo
UT
84604
1995 North University Parkway
Provo
UT
84604
8633 West Bell Road
Peoria
AZ
85382
7201 & 7501 Lomas Boulevard NE
Albuquerque
NM
87110
9733 Coors Boulevard NW
Albuquerque
NM
87114
1481 West Riverdale Road
Riverdale
UT
84405
13165 North Autoshow Avenue
Surprise
AZ
85388
11442 South Lone Peak Parkway
Draper
UT
84020
1340 South 500 West
Salt Lake City
UT
84115
1208 West 3rd Avenue
Spokane
WA
99201
1030 West 3rd Avenue
Spokane
WA
99201
8800 Lomas NE
Albuquerque
NM
87112
2500 West 104th Avenue
Thornton
CO
80234
7800 East 22nd Street
Tucson
AZ
85710
4220 East 22nd Street
Tucson
AZ
85711
6800 Federal Boulevard
Lemon Grove
CA
91945
900 West AutoMall Drive
Tucson
AZ
85705
200 West 9000 South
Sandy
UT
83704
690 South State Street
Orem
UT
84058
5701 South State Street
Murray
UT
84107
5212 Freeway Park Drive
Riverdale
UT
84405
10990 South Automall Drive
Sandy
UT
84070
10910 South Automall Drive
Sandy
UT
84070
8303 West Colfax Avenue
Lakewood
CO
80214
951 Southpoint Auto Park Boulevard
Durham
NC
27713
436 North McPherson Church Road
Fayetteville
NC
28303
256 Swain Street
Fayetteville
NC
28303
3908 West Wendover Avenue
Greensboro
NC
27407
3902 West Wendover Avenue
Greensboro
NC
27407
3710 West Wendover Avenue
Greensboro
NC
27407
3633 West Wendover Avenue
Greensboro
NC
27407
3900 West Wendover Avenue
Greensboro
NC
27407
3607 West Wendover Avenue
Greensboro
NC
27407
8704 West Broad Street
Richmond
NC
23294
8712 West Broad Street
Richmond
NC
23294
8710 West Broad Street
Richmond
NC
23294
12100 Midlothian Turnpike
Midlothian
NC
23113
4201 Beltway Place
Arlington
TX
76018
6113 Lemmon Avenue
Dallas
TX
75209
6107 Lemmon Avenue
Dallas
TX
75209
3515 Inwood Road
Dallas
TX
75209
1300 East State Highway 114
Dallas
TX
75261
5601 Bryant Irvin Road
Fort Worth
TX
76132
Address
City
State
Zip
901 East State Highway 114
Grapevine
TX
76051
6785 Dallas Parkway
Plano
TX
75024
2668 Laurens Road
Greenville
SC
29607
2700 Laurns Road
Greenville
SC
29607
2686 Laurens Road
Greenville
SC
29607
2712 Laurens Road
Greenville
SC
29607
755 North New Ballas
Creve Coeur
MO
63141
11910 Olive Boulevard
Creve Coeur
MO
63141
11830 Olive Boulevard
Creve Coeur
MO
63141
11654 Olive Boulevard
Creve Coeur
MO
63141
951 Technology Drive
O'Fallon
MO
63368
444 South Havana Street
Aurora
CO
80012
8337 Rasberry Way
Frederick
CO
80504
801 Denver West Colorado Mills Boulevard
Lakewood
CO
80401
15000 W. Colfax Avenue
Lakewood
CO
80401
780 Denver West Colorado Mills Boulevard
Lakewood
CO
80401
200 East Littleton Boulevard
Littleton
CO
80121
5500 South Broadway
Littleton
CO
80121
600 South Main Street
Longmont
CO
80501
9207 Adamo Drive
Tampa
FL
33619
4600 North Dale Mabry Highway
Tampa
FL
33614
4400 North Dale Mabry Highway
Tampa
FL
33614
3800 West Hillsborough Avenue
Tampa
FL
33614
3810 West Hillsborough Avenue
Tampa
FL
33614
9205 Adamo Drive
Tampa
FL
33619
9210 Adamo Drive
Tampa
FL
33619
300 West Loop 820 South
Worth
TX
76108
13553 US Hwy 183 North
Austin
TX
78750
1601 North Dallas Parkway (7200 State
Highway 121)
Frisco
TX
75034
3700 West Airport Freeway
Irving
TX
75062
4051 West Plano Parkway
Plano
TX
75093
6400 TX-121
Frisco
TX
75034
Exhibit 10.33
EXECUTION VERSION
Published Deal CUSIP Numbers
DEAL: 04343PAW2
REVOLVER: 04343PAX0
NEW VEHICLE FLOORPLAN: 04343PAY8
USED VEHICLE FLOORPLAN: 04343PAZ5
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED
CREDIT AGREEMENT
Dated as of October 20, 2023
among
ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE GROUP, INC.,
as a Borrower,
and
CERTAIN OF ITS SUBSIDIARIES,
as Vehicle Borrowers
BANK OF AMERICA, N.A.,
as Administrative Agent, Revolving Swing Line Lender,
New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender,
Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and an L/C Issuer,
and
THE OTHER LENDERS PARTY HERETO
JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A.
and
WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A.,
as Co-Syndication Agents
TOYOTA MOTOR CREDIT CORPORATION,
MERCEDES-BENZ FINANCIAL SERVICES USA LLC
and
AMERICAN HONDA FINANCE CORPORATION,
as Co-Documentation Agents
BOFA SECURITIES, INC.,
as Sole Lead Arranger and Sole Bookrunner
176985207
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
1.01 Assignments and Allocations; Amendment and Restatement 1
1.02 Defined Terms 3
1.03 Other Interpretive Provisions 59
1.04 Accounting Terms 60
1.05 Times of Day 61
1.06 Interest Rates 61
1.07 Letter of Credit Amounts 62
1.08 Limited Condition Acquisition 62
ARTICLE II. THE COMMITMENTS AND CREDIT EXTENSIONS 63
2.01 Revolving Committed Loans 63
2.02 Borrowings, Conversions and Continuations of Revolving Committed Loans 64
2.03 Letters of Credit 64
2.04 Revolving Swing Line Loans 72
2.05 New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans 76
2.06 Borrowings, Conversions and Continuations of New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans 77
2.07 New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan 78
2.08 New Vehicle Floorplan Overdrafts 83
2.09 Electronic Processing and New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account 84
2.10 Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans 86
2.11 Borrowings, Conversions and Continuations of Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans 87
2.12 Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans 87
2.13 Prepayments 92
2.14 Termination, Reduction or Conversion of Commitments 93
2.15 Repayment of Loans 96
2.16 Interest 98
2.17 Fees 99
2.18 Computation of Interest and Fees; Retroactive Adjustments of Applicable Rate 100
2.19 Evidence of Debt 100
2.20 Payments Generally; Administrative Agent’s Clawback 101
-i-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
Page
2.21 Sharing of Payments by Lenders 103
2.22 Increase in Commitments 104
2.23 Extension of Maturity Date 106
2.24 New Vehicle Borrowers 107
2.25 Used Vehicle Borrowers 108
2.26 Cash Collateral 110
2.27 Defaulting Lenders 111
ARTICLE III. TAXES, YIELD PROTECTION AND ILLEGALITY 113
3.01 Taxes 113
3.02 Illegality 117
3.03 Inability to Determine Rates 117
3.04 Increased Costs 119
3.05 Mitigation Obligations; Replacement of Lenders 120
3.06 Survival 121
ARTICLE IV. CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO CREDIT EXTENSIONS 121
4.01 Conditions of Initial Credit Extension 121
4.02 Conditions to all Credit Extensions other than New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowings pursuant to a Payment
Commitment, a Payoff Letter Commitment or the Floorplan On-Line System 124
4.03 Conditions to all New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowings pursuant to a Payment Commitment, a Payoff Letter
Commitment or the Floorplan On-Line System 127
ARTICLE V. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES 128
5.01 Existence, Qualification and Power 128
5.02 Authorization; No Contravention 128
5.03 Governmental Authorization; Other Consents 128
5.04 Binding Effect 128
5.05 Financial Statements; No Material Adverse Effect 128
5.06 Litigation 129
5.07 No Default 129
5.08 Ownership of Property; Liens 129
5.09 Environmental Compliance 129
5.10 Insurance 129
-ii-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
Page
5.11 Taxes 129
5.12 ERISA Compliance 130
5.13 Subsidiaries; Addresses; Equity Interests 130
5.14 Margin Regulations; Investment Company Act 131
5.15 Disclosure 131
5.16 Compliance with Laws 131
5.17 Intellectual Property; Licenses, Etc 131
5.18 Location of Vehicles and Books and Records 132
5.19 Franchise Agreements and Framework Agreements 132
5.20 Engaged in Business of Vehicle Sales and Related Businesses 132
5.21 Collateral 132
5.22 Solvency 132
5.23 Labor Matters 132
5.24 Taxpayer Identification Number 132
5.25 OFAC 133
5.26 Anti-Corruption Laws 133
5.27 Affected Financial Institutions 133
5.28 Covered Entities 133
ARTICLE VI. AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS 133
6.01 Financial Statements 133
6.02 Certificates; Other Information 135
6.03 Notices 138
6.04 Payment of Obligations 139
6.05 Preservation of Existence, Etc.; Maintenance of Vehicle Title Documentation 139
6.06 Maintenance of Properties 139
6.07 Maintenance of Insurance 139
6.08 Compliance with Laws and Material Contractual Obligations 140
6.09 Books and Records 140
6.10 Inspection Rights 140
6.11 Use of Proceeds 140
6.12 Floorplan Audits 141
-iii-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
Page
6.13 Location of Vehicles 141
6.14 Additional Subsidiaries 142
6.15 Further Assurances 142
6.16 Landlord Waivers 143
6.17 Demonstrator, Rental Vehicle or Other Mileaged New Vehicle 143
6.18 Anti-Corruption Laws 143
ARTICLE VII. NEGATIVE COVENANTS 143
7.01 Indebtedness 143
7.02 Liens 145
7.03 Consolidations and Mergers 147
7.04 Disposition of Assets 147
7.05 Investments 149
7.06 Transactions with Affiliates 150
7.07 Other Agreements 150
7.08 Fiscal Year; Accounting 150
7.09 Pension Plans 150
7.10 Restricted Payments and Distributions 150
7.11 Financial Covenants 152
7.12 Change in Nature of Business 152
7.13 Use of Proceeds 152
7.14 Burdensome Agreements 152
7.15 [Reserved] 153
7.16 Prepayments, etc 153
7.17 Excluded Collateral 153
7.18 Perfection of Deposit Accounts 153
7.19 Acquisitions 153
7.20 Amendments of Organizational Documents 154
7.21 Sanctions 154
7.22 Anti-Corruption Laws 154
ARTICLE VIII. EVENTS OF DEFAULT AND REMEDIES 154
8.01 Revolving/Used Vehicle Events of Default 154
-iv-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
Page
8.02 Remedies Upon Revolving/Used Vehicle Event of Default 157
8.03 New Vehicle Events of Default 158
8.04 Remedies Upon New Vehicle Event of Default 160
8.05 Overdrawing of New Vehicle Floorplan Loans 162
8.06 Application of Funds 162
ARTICLE IX. ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT 164
9.01 Appointment and Authority 164
9.02 Rights as a Lender 164
9.03 Exculpatory Provisions 164
9.04 Reliance by Administrative Agent 165
9.05 Delegation of Duties 166
9.06 Resignation of Administrative Agent 166
9.07 Non-Reliance on the Administrative Agent, the Arranger and the Other Lenders 168
9.08 No Other Duties, Etc 168
9.09 Administrative Agent May File Proofs of Claim; Credit Bidding 168
9.10 Collateral and Guaranty Matters 170
9.11 Secured Cash Management Arrangements and Secured Hedge Agreements 171
9.12 Certain ERISA Matters 171
9.13 Recovery of Erroneous Payments 172
ARTICLE X. MISCELLANEOUS 172
10.01 Amendments, Etc 172
10.02 Notices; Effectiveness; Electronic Communication 174
10.03 No Waiver; Cumulative Remedies; Enforcement 176
10.04 Expenses; Indemnity; Damage Waiver 177
10.05 Payments Set Aside 179
10.06 Successors and Assigns 179
10.07 Treatment of Certain Information; Confidentiality 185
10.08 Right of Setoff 186
10.09 Interest Rate Limitation 187
10.10 Counterparts; Integration; Effectiveness 187
-v-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
Page
10.11 Survival of Representations and Warranties 187
10.12 Severability 187
10.13 Replacement of Lenders 188
10.14 Governing Law; Jurisdiction; Etc 189
10.15 Waiver of Jury Trial 189
10.16 No Advisory or Fiduciary Responsibility 190
10.17 Electronic Execution; Electronic Records; Counterparts 190
10.18 USA PATRIOT Act 191
10.19 Designated Senior Debt 192
10.20 Keepwell 192
10.21 Acknowledgement and Consent to Bail-In of Affected Financial Institutions 192
10.22 Acknowledgement Regarding Any Supported QFCs 192
-vi-
SCHEDULES
Schedule 1.02(P) Permitted Real Estate Debt
Schedule 2.01 Commitments and Applicable Percentages
Schedule 2.03A L/C Commitments
Schedule 2.03B Existing Letters of Credit
Schedule 4.01 Good Standing Jurisdictions and Foreign Qualifications
Schedule 5.06 Litigation
Schedule 5.12(d) Pension Plan Liability
Schedule 5.13 Subsidiaries; Addresses
Schedule 5.18 Location of Vehicles
Schedule 5.19 Franchise and Framework Agreements
Schedule 7.01(b) Existing Indebtedness
Schedule 7.02 Permitted Liens
Schedule 10.02 Administrative Agent’s Office; Certain Addresses for Notices
EXHIBITS Form of
Exhibit A-1 New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice
Exhibit A-2 Revolving Committed Loan Notice
Exhibit A-3 Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice
Exhibit B-1 New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan Notice
Exhibit B-2 Revolving Swing Line Loan Notice
Exhibit B-3 Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan Notice
Exhibit C-1 Revolving Note
Exhibit C-2 New Vehicle Floorplan Note
Exhibit C-3 Used Vehicle Floorplan Note
Exhibit D Assignment and Assumption
Exhibit E Company Guaranty
Exhibit F Subsidiary Guaranty
Exhibit G Compliance Certificate
Exhibit H Joinder Agreement
Exhibit I Escrow and Security Agreement
Exhibit J-1 Revolving Borrowing Base Certificate
Exhibit J-2 Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base Certificate
Exhibit K Security Agreement
Exhibit L Opinion Matters
Exhibit M Prepayment Test Amount Certificate
Exhibit N Pledge Agreement
Exhibit O U.S. Tax Compliance Certificates
Exhibit P Conversion Notice
Exhibit Q Reserved
Exhibit R Notice of Loan Prepayment
-vii-
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED
CREDIT AGREEMENT
This FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT (“Agreement”) is entered into as of October 20, 2023, among
ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE GROUP, INC., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), certain Subsidiaries of the Company party hereto as New
Vehicle Borrowers pursuant to Section 2.24 (each a “New Vehicle Borrower” and collectively with the Used Vehicle Borrowers (defined
below), the “Vehicle Borrowers”), certain Subsidiaries of the Company party hereto as Used Vehicle Borrowers pursuant to Section 2.25 (each
a “Used Vehicle Borrower”, and collectively with the Company, the “Used Vehicle Borrowers”), each lender from time to time party hereto
(collectively, the “Lenders” and individually, a “Lender”), and BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., as Administrative Agent, Revolving Swing Line
Lender, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and an L/C Issuer. The Vehicle Borrowers and
the Company in its capacity as Borrower under the Revolving Credit Facility, are referred to collectively as the “Borrowers” and individually as
a “Borrower”.
The Company, certain of the Vehicle Borrowers party thereto (the “Existing Vehicle Borrowers”, and collectively with the Company,
the “Existing Borrowers”), the Administrative Agent and the Lenders party thereto entered into that certain Third Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement dated as of September 25, 2019 (as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time prior to the date hereof, the
“Existing Credit Agreement”), pursuant to which such Lenders provided the Existing Borrowers with a revolving credit facility, a revolving
new vehicle floorplan facility and a revolving used vehicle floorplan facility.
The Company has requested that the Lenders amend and restate the Existing Credit Agreement in order to continue to provide a
revolving credit facility, a revolving new vehicle floorplan facility and a revolving used vehicle floorplan facility, and the Lenders are willing to
do so on the terms and conditions set forth herein.
In consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements herein contained, the parties hereto covenant and agree as follows:
ARTICLE I.
DEFINITIONS AND ACCOUNTING TERMS
1.01
Assignments and Allocations; Amendment and Restatement.
(a)
Simultaneously with the Closing Date, the parties hereby agree that (i) the initial Revolving Commitments are $500,000,000,
the initial Revolving Commitment of each of the Revolving Lenders hereunder shall be as set forth in Schedule 2.01, the outstanding amount of
the Revolving Loans (as defined in and under the Existing Credit Agreement, without giving effect to any Revolving Borrowings of Revolving
Loans under this Agreement on the Closing Date, but after giving effect to any repayment or reduction thereof with the proceeds of any
applicable sources) shall be reallocated in accordance with such Revolving Commitments and the requisite assignments shall be deemed to be
made in such amounts by and between the Revolving Lenders and from each Revolving Lender to each other Revolving Lender (including
from Revolving Lenders who increase or reduce their Revolving Commitments in connection with this Agreement), with the same force and
effect as if such assignments were evidenced by applicable Assignments and Assumptions (as defined in the Existing Credit Agreement) under
the Existing Credit Agreement but without the payment of any related assignment fee, and no other documents or instruments, shall be, or shall
be required to be, executed in connection with such assignments (all of which requirements are hereby waived) (ii) the initial New Vehicle
Floorplan Commitments are $1,925,000,000, the initial New Vehicle Floorplan Commitment of each of the New Vehicle Floorplan Lenders
hereunder shall be as set forth in Schedule 2.01, the outstanding amount of the
New Vehicle Floorplan Loans (as defined in and under the Existing Credit Agreement, without giving effect to any New Vehicle Floorplan
Borrowings of New Vehicle Floorplan Loans under this Agreement on the Closing Date, but after giving effect to any repayment or reduction
thereof with the proceeds of any applicable sources) shall be reallocated in accordance with such New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments and the
requisite assignments shall be deemed to be made in such amounts by and between the New Vehicle Floorplan Lenders and from each New
Vehicle Floorplan Lender to each other New Vehicle Floorplan Lender (including from New Vehicle Floorplan Lenders who increase or reduce
their New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments in connection with this Agreement), with the same force and effect as if such assignments were
evidenced by applicable Assignments and Assumptions (as defined in the Existing Credit Agreement) under the Existing Credit Agreement but
without the payment of any related assignment fee, and no other documents or instruments, shall be, or shall be required to be, executed in
connection with such assignments (all of which requirements are hereby waived), (iii) the initial Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments are
$375,000,000, the initial Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitment of each of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Lenders hereunder shall be as set forth in
Schedule 2.01, the outstanding amount of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Loans (as defined in and under the Existing Credit Agreement, without
giving effect to any Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowings of Used Vehicle Floorplan Loans under this Agreement on the Closing Date, but after
giving effect to any repayment or reduction thereof with the proceeds of any applicable sources) shall be reallocated in accordance with such
Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments and the requisite assignments shall be deemed to be made in such amounts by and between the Used
Vehicle Floorplan Lenders and from each Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender to each other Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender (including from Used
Vehicle Floorplan Lenders who increase or reduce their Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments in connection with this Agreement), with the
same force and effect as if such assignments were evidenced by applicable Assignments and Assumptions (as defined in the Existing Credit
Agreement) under the Existing Credit Agreement but without the payment of any related assignment fee, and no other documents or
instruments, shall be, or shall be required to be, executed in connection with such assignments (all of which requirements are hereby waived),
(iv) the Revolving Swing Line (as defined under the Existing Credit Agreement) shall continue as the revolving swing line subfacility
hereunder, with the Revolving Swing Line Sublimit set out herein, and the Revolving Swing Line Loans (as defined in the Existing Credit
Agreement), if any, shall continue as and deemed to be Revolving Swing Line Borrowings hereunder (v) the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing
Line (as defined under the Existing Credit Agreement) shall continue as the new vehicle swing line subfacility hereunder, with the New Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Sublimit set out herein, and the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans (as defined in the Existing Credit Agreement),
if any, shall continue as and deemed to be New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowings hereunder and (vi) the Used Vehicle Floorplan
Swing Line (as defined under the Existing Credit Agreement) shall continue as the used vehicle swing line subfacility hereunder, with the Used
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Sublimit set out herein, and the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans (as defined in the Existing Credit
Agreement), if any, shall continue as and deemed to be Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowings hereunder.
(b)
On the Closing Date, the applicable Lenders shall make full cash settlement with one another and with any lender under the
Existing Credit Agreement that may not be a Lender under this Agreement, in each case through the Administrative Agent, as the
Administrative Agent may direct or approve, with respect to all assignments, reallocations and other changes in Commitments, such that after
giving effect to such settlements, each Lender’s Applicable Percentage of the Aggregate Commitments equals (with customary rounding) its
Applicable Percentage of the Outstanding Amount of all Loans. The Borrowers represent that as of the date hereof there are no Obligations
arising under any Secured Cash Management Agreement or any Secured Hedge Agreement owing to any Lender (each capitalized term used
previously in this sentence as defined in the Existing Credit Agreement) which does not continue as a “Lender” hereunder after giving effect to
this Agreement.
(c)
The Borrowers, each Guarantor, the Administrative Agent and the Lenders hereby agree that upon the effectiveness of this
Agreement, the terms and provisions of the Existing Credit Agreement that in any manner govern or evidence the Obligations, the rights and
interests of the Administrative Agent and the Lenders, in any of their respective capacities, and any terms, conditions or matters related to any
thereof, shall be and hereby are amended and restated in their entirety by the terms, conditions and provisions of this Agreement, and the terms
and provisions of the Existing Credit Agreement, except as otherwise expressly provided herein, shall be superseded by this Agreement.
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(d)
Notwithstanding this amendment and restatement of the Existing Credit Agreement, including anything in this Section 1.01,
and certain of the related “Loan Documents” as defined in the Existing Credit Agreement (the “Prior Loan Documents”), (i) after giving effect
to any repayments, commitment reductions and commitment terminations on the date hereof, all of the indebtedness, liabilities and obligations
owing by any Borrower (as defined in the Existing Credit Agreement) under the Existing Credit Agreement and other Prior Loan Documents
shall continue as Obligations hereunder, as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified by the terms of this Agreement, (ii) each of this
Agreement and the Notes and the other Loan Documents is given as a substitution or supplement of, as the case may be, and not as a payment
of, the indebtedness, liabilities and obligations of the Borrowers (as defined in the Existing Credit Agreement) and the Guarantors (as defined
in the Existing Credit Agreement) under the Existing Credit Agreement or any Prior Loan Document and is not intended to constitute a
novation thereof or of any of the other Prior Loan Documents, and (iii) certain of the Prior Loan Documents will remain in full force and effect,
as set forth in such Prior Loan Document. Upon the effectiveness of this Agreement, all Loans (as defined in the Existing Credit Agreement)
owing by any Borrower (as defined in the Existing Credit Agreement) and outstanding under the Existing Credit Agreement shall continue as
Loans hereunder subject to the terms hereof; and all Letters of Credit (as defined in the Existing Credit Agreement) outstanding under the
Existing Credit Agreement shall continue as Letters of Credit hereunder subject to the terms hereof. Loans which are Base Rate Loans, each as
defined and outstanding under the Existing Credit Agreement on the Closing Date, shall continue to accrue interest at the Base Rate hereunder,
and Loans which are Daily Simple SOFR Loans, each as defined and outstanding under the Existing Credit Agreement on the Closing Date,
shall continue to accrue interest at Daily Simple SOFR hereunder; provided, that, on and after the Closing Date, the margin applicable to any
Loan hereunder shall be as set forth in the definition of Applicable Rate below, without regard to any margin applicable thereto under the
Existing Credit Agreement prior to the Closing Date.
1.02
Defined Terms. As used in this Agreement, the following terms shall have the meanings set forth below:
“Account Debtor” means each Person obligated in any way on or in connection with an Account, chattel paper or a general intangible
(including a payment intangible).
“Acquisition” means the acquisition of (i) a controlling equity interest or other controlling ownership interest in another Person
(including the purchase of an option, warrant or convertible or similar type security to acquire such a controlling interest at the time it is
exercised by the holder thereof), whether by purchase of such equity or other ownership interest or upon the exercise of an option or warrant
for, or conversion of securities into, such equity or other ownership interest, (ii) assets of another Person which constitute all or substantially all
of the assets of such Person or of a line or lines of business conducted by or a vehicle franchise or vehicle brand licensed or owned by such
Person, or (iii) assets constituting a vehicle dealership.
“Act” has the meaning specified in Section 10.18.
“Additional Commitment Lender” has the meaning specified in Section 2.23(d).
“Additional Koons Restricted Subsidiaries” has the meaning specified in Section 4.02(i)(i).
“Administrative Agent” means Bank of America in its capacity as administrative agent under any of the Loan Documents, or any
successor administrative agent.
“Administrative Agent’s Office” means the Administrative Agent’s address and, as appropriate, account as set forth on Schedule 10.02,
or such other address or account as the Administrative Agent may from time to time notify to the Company and the Lenders.
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“Administrative Questionnaire” means an Administrative Questionnaire in a form supplied by the Administrative Agent.
“Affected Financial Institution” means (a) any EEA Financial Institution or (b) any UK Financial Institution.
“Affiliate” means, with respect to any Person, another Person that directly, or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, Controls
or is Controlled by or is under common Control with the Person specified.
“Aggregate Commitments” means, collectively, the Aggregate Revolving Commitments, the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan
Commitments and the Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments.
“Aggregate Floorplan Facility Commitments” means, collectively, the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments and the
Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments.
“Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments” means the New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments of all the New Vehicle Floorplan
Lenders.
“Aggregate Revolving Commitments” means the Revolving Commitments of all the Revolving Lenders.
“Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments” means the Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments of all the Used Vehicle Floorplan
Lenders.
“Agreement” has the meaning specified in the introductory paragraph hereto.
“Anniversary Date” means each anniversary of the Closing Date.
“Applicable Facility” means the Revolving Credit Facility, the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility or the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility,
as applicable.
“Applicable Floorplan Principal Reduction” has the meaning specified in Section 2.09(b)(iii).
“Applicable Four-Quarter Period” means with respect to any date of determination, the four-quarter period most recently ended on or
prior to such date for which internal financial statements are available.
“Applicable New Vehicle Floorplan Percentage” means with respect to any New Vehicle Floorplan Lender at any time, the percentage
(carried out to the ninth decimal place) of the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments represented by such Lender’s New Vehicle
Floorplan Commitment at such time, subject to adjustment as provided in Section 2.27. If the commitment of each New Vehicle Floorplan
Lender to make New Vehicle Floorplan Loans have been terminated pursuant to Section 8.04 or if the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan
Commitments have expired, then the Applicable New Vehicle Floorplan Percentage of each New Vehicle Floorplan Lender shall be determined
based on the Applicable New Vehicle Floorplan Percentage of such New Vehicle Floorplan Lender most recently in effect, giving effect to any
subsequent assignments and to any Lender’s status as a Defaulting Lender at the time of determination. The initial Applicable New Vehicle
Floorplan Percentage of each New Vehicle Floorplan Lender is set forth opposite the name of such New Vehicle Floorplan Lender on Schedule
2.01 or in the
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Assignment and Assumption pursuant to which such New Vehicle Floorplan Lender becomes a party hereto, as applicable.
“Applicable Percentage” means with respect to any Lender at any time, the percentage (carried out to the ninth decimal place) of the
Aggregate Commitments represented by such Lender’s Commitment at such time, subject to adjustment as provided in Section 2.27. If the
commitment of each Lender under an Applicable Facility to make Loans under such Facility (and, in the case of the Revolving Credit Facility,
the obligation of each L/C Issuer to make L/C Credit Extensions) have been terminated pursuant to Section 8.02 or Section 8.04 or if the
Aggregate Revolving Commitments, the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments or the Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan
Commitments, as applicable, have expired, then for the purposes of determining the Applicable Percentage of any Lender, the Commitment of
such Lender under such Facility shall be calculated in accordance with the second sentence of the definition of “Applicable Revolving
Percentage”, “Applicable New Vehicle Floorplan Percentage” or “Applicable Used Vehicle Floorplan Percentage”, as the case may be.
“Applicable Rate” has the following meanings, depending on the Applicable Facility:
(a)
With respect to the Revolving Credit Facility, Applicable Rate means the following percentages per annum, based upon the
Consolidated Total Lease Adjusted Leverage Ratio as set forth in the most recent Compliance Certificate received by the Administrative Agent
pursuant to Section 6.02(a):
Applicable Rate
Pricing
Level
Consolidated Total
Lease Adjusted
Leverage Ratio
Commitment Fee
for Revolving
Credit
Facility
Letter
of Credit Fee for
Revolving Credit
Facility
Daily Simple
SOFR + (for
Revolving Credit
Facility)
Base Rate +
(for
Revolving Credit
Facility)
1
Less than 2.50 to 1.00
0.15%
0.875%
1.00%
0.15%
2
Less than 3.50 to 1.00
but greater than or
equal to 2.50 to 1.00
0.20%
1.125%
1.25%
0.25%
3
Less than 4.00 to 1.00
but greater than or
equal to 3.50 to 1.00
0.25%
1.375%
1.50%
0.50%
4
Less than 4.50 to 1.00
but greater than or
equal to 4.00 to 1.00
0.30%
1.625%
1.75%
0.75%
5
Greater than or equal to
4.50 to 1.00
0.40%
1.875%
2.00%
1.00%
5
Any increase or decrease in the Applicable Rate resulting from a change in the Consolidated Total Lease Adjusted Leverage Ratio shall become
effective as of the first Business Day immediately following the date a Compliance Certificate is delivered pursuant to Section 6.02(a);
provided, however, that (i) if a Compliance Certificate is not delivered when due in accordance with such Section, then Pricing Level 5 shall
apply as of the first Business Day after the date on which such Compliance Certificate was required to have been delivered and shall remain in
effect until the date on which such Compliance Certificate is delivered and (ii) the Applicable Rate in effect from the Closing Date through the
first Business Day of the calendar month immediately succeeding the date the Compliance Certificate with respect to the fiscal quarter ended
September 30, 2023 is delivered (or, if not timely delivered, the date such compliance certificate is required to be delivered) pursuant to Section
6.02(a) shall be Pricing Level 1.
(b)
With respect to the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility, Applicable Rate means the following percentages per annum:
Commitment Fee for New Vehicle
Floorplan Facility
Daily Simple SOFR +
(for New Vehicle
Floorplan Facility)
Base Rate +
(for New Vehicle
Floorplan Facility
0.15%
1.10%
0.10%
(c)
With respect to the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility, Applicable Rate means the following percentages per annum:
Commitment Fee for Used
Vehicle
Floorplan Facility
Daily Simple SOFR +
(for Used Vehicle Floorplan
Facility)
Base Rate +
(for Used Vehicle Floorplan
Facility
0.15%
1.40%
0.40%
“Applicable Revolving Percentage” means with respect to any Revolving Lender at any time, the percentage (carried out to the ninth
decimal place) of the Aggregate Revolving Commitments represented by such Lender’s Revolving Commitment at such time, subject to
adjustment as provided in Section 2.27. If the commitment of each Revolving Lender to make Revolving Loans and the obligation of each L/C
Issuer to make L/C Credit Extensions have been terminated pursuant to Section 8.02 or if the Aggregate Revolving Commitments have expired,
then the Applicable Revolving Percentage of each Revolving Lender shall be determined based on the Applicable Revolving Percentage of
such Lender most recently in effect, giving effect to any subsequent assignments and to any Lender’s status as a Defaulting Lender at the time
of determination. The initial Applicable Revolving Percentage of each Revolving Lender is set forth opposite the name of such Revolving
Lender on Schedule 2.01 or in the Assignment and Assumption pursuant to which such Revolving Lender becomes a party hereto, as
applicable.
“Applicable Used Vehicle Floorplan Percentage” means with respect to any Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender at any time, the percentage
(carried out to the ninth decimal place) of the Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments represented by such Lender’s Used Vehicle
Floorplan Commitment at such time, subject to adjustment as provided in Section 2.27. If the commitment of each Used Vehicle Floorplan
Lender to make Used Vehicle Floorplan Loans has been terminated pursuant to Section 8.02 or if the Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan
Commitments have expired, then the Applicable Used Vehicle Floorplan Percentage of each Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender shall be
determined based on the Applicable Used Vehicle Floorplan Percentage of such Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender most recently
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in effect, giving effect to any subsequent assignments and to any Lender’s status as a Defaulting Lender at the time of determination. The initial
Applicable Used Vehicle Floorplan Percentage of each Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender is set forth opposite the name of such Used Vehicle
Floorplan Lender on Schedule 2.01 or in the Assignment and Assumption pursuant to which such Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender becomes a
party hereto, as applicable.
“Approved Fund” means any Fund that is administered or managed by (a) a Lender, (b) an Affiliate of a Lender or (c) an entity or an
Affiliate of an entity that administers or manages a Lender.
“Arranger” means BofA Securities, Inc., in its capacity as sole lead arranger and sole bookrunner.
“Asbury New Vehicle Control Period” means any period beginning two (2) Business Days after the date that the Company delivers
notice to the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and the Administrative Agent indicating that the Company desires to have the ability to
request New Vehicle Floorplan Borrowings, and continuing until two (2) Business Days after the date that the Company delivers notice to the
New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and the Administrative Agent that the Company wishes to terminate such Asbury New Vehicle
Control Period.
“Assignee Group” means two or more Eligible Assignees that are Affiliates of one another or two or more Approved Funds managed
by the same investment advisor.
“Assignment and Assumption” means an assignment and assumption entered into by a Lender and an Eligible Assignee (with the
consent of any party whose consent is required by Section 10.06(b)), and accepted by the Administrative Agent, in substantially the form of
Exhibit D or any other form (including electronic documentation generated by use of an electronic platform) approved by the Administrative
Agent.
“Attributable Indebtedness” means, on any date, (a) in respect of any capital lease or finance lease of any Person, the capitalized
amount thereof that would appear on a balance sheet of such Person prepared as of such date in accordance with GAAP, and (b) in respect of
any Synthetic Lease Obligation, the capitalized amount of the remaining lease payments under the relevant lease that would appear on a
balance sheet of such Person prepared as of such date in accordance with GAAP if such lease were accounted for as a capital lease or finance
lease; provided that (a) for purposes of determining compliance with any provision of this Agreement, the determination of whether a lease is to
be treated as an operating lease, on the one hand, or capital lease or finance lease, on the other hand, shall be made without giving effect to any
change in accounting for leases pursuant to GAAP resulting from the implementation of Financial Accounting Standards Board ASU No. 2016-
02, Leases (Topic 842), to the extent such adoption would require treating any lease (or similar arrangement conveying the right to use) as a
capital lease or finance lease where such lease (or similar arrangement) would not have been required to be so treated under GAAP as in effect
on December 31, 2018.
“Audited Financial Statements” means the audited consolidated balance sheet of the Company and its Subsidiaries for the fiscal year
ended December 31, 2022, and the related consolidated statements of income or operations, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for such fiscal
year of the Company and its Subsidiaries, including the notes thereto.
“Auto-Extension Letter of Credit” has the meaning specified in Section 2.03(b).
“Autoborrow Agreement” means the Revolving Autoborrow Agreement, the New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement or the Used Vehicle
Autoborrow Agreement, as applicable.
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“Automatic Debit Date” means the fifth day of a calendar month, provided that if such day is not a Business Day, the respective
Automatic Debit Date shall be the next succeeding Business Day.
“Availability Period” means
(a)
in the case of the Revolving Credit Facility, the period from and including the Closing Date to the earliest of (i) the Maturity
Date, (ii) the date of termination of the Aggregate Revolving Commitments pursuant to Section 2.14, and (iii) the date of termination of the
commitment of each Revolving Lender to make Revolving Loans and of the obligation of each L/C Issuer to make L/C Credit Extensions
pursuant to Section 8.02,
(b)
in the case of the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility, the period from and including the Closing Date to the earliest of (i) the
Maturity Date, (ii) the date of termination of the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments pursuant to Section 2.14 and (iii) the date of
termination of the commitment of each New Vehicle Floorplan Lender to make New Vehicle Floorplan Loans pursuant to Section 8.04, and
(c)
in the case of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility, the period from and including the Closing Date to the earliest of (i) the
Maturity Date, (ii) the date of termination of the Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments pursuant to Section 2.14 and (iii) the date of
termination of the commitment of each Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender to make Used Vehicle Floorplan Loans pursuant to Section 8.02.
“Available Unused Revolving Commitments” means, as of any date of determination, the total of (a) the lesser of the Aggregate
Revolving Commitments or the Revolving Borrowing Base minus (b) Total Revolving Outstandings.
“Bail-In Action” means the exercise of any Write-Down and Conversion Powers by the applicable Resolution Authority in respect of
any liability of an Affected Financial Institution.
“Bail-In Legislation” means, (a) with respect to any EEA Member Country implementing Article 55 of Directive 2014/59/EU of the
European Parliament and of the Council of the European Union, the implementing law, rule, regulation or requirement for such EEA Member
Country from time to time which is described in the EU Bail-In Legislation Schedule, and (b) with respect to the United Kingdom, Part I of the
United Kingdom Banking Act 2009 (as amended from time to time) and any other law, regulation or rule applicable in the United Kingdom
relating to the resolution of unsound or failing banks, investment firms or other financial institutions or their affiliates (other than through
liquidation, administration or other insolvency proceedings).
“Bank of America” means Bank of America, N.A. and its successors.
“Bank of America Fee Letter” means the letter agreement, dated September 27, 2023, among the Company, the Administrative Agent
and the Arranger.
“Base Rate” means for any day a fluctuating rate per annum equal to the highest of (a) the Federal Funds Rate plus 1/2 of 1%, (b) the
rate of interest in effect for such day as publicly announced from time to time by Bank of America as its “prime rate,” (c) Daily Simple SOFR
plus 1.00%, and (d) 1.00%. The “prime rate” is a rate set by Bank of America based upon various factors including Bank of America’s costs
and desired return, general economic conditions and other factors, and is used as a reference point for pricing some loans, which may be priced
at, above, or below such announced rate. Any change in such prime rate announced by Bank of America shall take effect at the opening of
business on the day specified in the public announcement of such change. If the Base Rate is being used as an alternate rate
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of interest pursuant to Section 3.03 hereof, then the Base Rate shall be the greater of clauses (a), (b) and (d) above and shall be determined
without reference to clause (c) above.
“Base Rate Committed Loan” means a Revolving Committed Loan, a New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan or a Used Vehicle
Floorplan Committed Loan, as the context may require, that is a Base Rate Loan.
“Base Rate Loan” means a Loan that bears interest based on the Base Rate.
“Beneficial Ownership Certification” means a certification regarding beneficial ownership required by the Beneficial Ownership
Regulation.
“Beneficial Ownership Regulation” means 31 C.F.R. § 1010.230.
“Benefit Plan” means any of (a) an “employee benefit plan” (as defined in ERISA) that is subject to Title I of ERISA, (b) a “plan” as
defined in and subject to Section 4975 of the Code or (c) any Person whose assets include (for purposes of ERISA Section 3(42) or otherwise
for purposes of Title I of ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code) the assets of any such “employee benefit plan” or “plan”.
“Blocked Account Agreement” means a control agreement reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent executed by an
institution maintaining a deposit account or securities account for a Borrower or Guarantor, to perfect the Administrative Agent’s Lien on such
account.
“Borrower” and “Borrowers” each has the meaning specified in the introductory paragraph hereto.
“Borrower Materials” has the meaning specified in Section 6.02.
“Borrowing” means a Revolving Borrowing, a New Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing, or a Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing, as the
context may require.
“Borrowing Base Assets” means (a) Company’s or any Subsidiary Guarantor’s Contracts-in-Transit, (b) Company’s or any Subsidiary
Guarantor’s Accounts, (c) any New Vehicle Borrower’s New Vehicles, (d) any Used Vehicle Borrower’s Used Vehicles, (e) Company’s or any
Subsidiary Guarantor’s Inventory consisting of parts and accessories, (f) Company’s and any Restricted Subsidiary’s Qualified Cash, (g)
Company’s or any Subsidiary Guarantor’s Equipment (in the case of clauses (a) through (g), whether or not they meet the eligibility criteria for
inclusion in the Revolving Borrowing Base or the Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base), and (h) Eligible Borrowing Base Real Estate.
“Borrowing Base Permitted Liens” means, collectively:
(a)
Liens created pursuant to the Loan Documents and securing the Obligations,
(b)
Liens permitted by this Agreement that (i) are subordinate in priority to the Liens described in clause (a) of this definition or
are Liens for which the Administrative Agent may have established a reasonable reserve, (ii) are non-consensual and have not been agreed to or
granted by the Company or any Subsidiary in any agreement or document and (iii) do not secure obligations for money borrowed or any
guaranty thereof,
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(c)
Any Lien permitted by Section 7.02(f) or (q) of this Agreement, provided in each case that the holder of such Lien has not
taken any action to exercise any remedy in respect of any asset subject to such Lien, and
(d)
solely in the case of any Eligible Borrowing Base Real Estate, easements, rights of way, zoning restrictions and other minor
Liens and encumbrances and title exceptions; provided, that, except for (i) tax liens securing obligations that are not yet due and payable or that
are being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings, or (ii) carriers’, warehousemen’s, mechanics’, materialmen’s, workmen’s,
repairmen’s or other like liens arising or incurred in the ordinary course of business or amounts that are not delinquent and which are not,
individually or in the aggregate, material to the business of such Borrower, any Lien securing debt for borrowed money shall not be considered
a minor Lien or encumbrance.
Without limiting the generality of clause (b)(ii) or (iii) above, no Lien that secures any Permitted FMCC Floorplan Indebtedness or
Permitted Service Loaner Indebtedness shall constitute a Borrowing Base Permitted Lien.
“Business Day” means any day other than a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which commercial banks are authorized to close under
the Laws of, or are in fact closed in, the state where the Administrative Agent’s Office is located.
“Captive Insurance Company” means any captive insurance company that is either (A) formed by the Company or any of its
Subsidiaries or (B) acquired by the Company or any of its Subsidiaries or Affiliates in connection with any Permitted Acquisition, in each case
so long as the primary purpose of such entity is providing self-insurance benefits to a Borrower or its Subsidiaries and Affiliates.
“Cash Collateralize” means to pledge and deposit with or deliver to the Administrative Agent, for the benefit of the Administrative
Agent, the respective L/C Issuer or Swing Line Lender (as applicable) and the Lenders, as collateral for L/C Obligations, Obligations in respect
of Swing Line Loans, or obligations of Lenders to fund participations in respect of either thereof (as the context may require), cash or deposit
account balances or, if the applicable L/C Issuer or Swing Line Lender benefitting from such collateral shall agree in its sole discretion, other
credit support, in each case pursuant to documentation in form and substance satisfactory to (a) the Administrative Agent and (b) the respective
L/C Issuer or the Swing Line Lender (as applicable). “Cash Collateral” shall have a meaning correlative to the foregoing and shall include the
proceeds of such cash collateral and other credit support.
“Cash Management Agreement” means any agreement (written or oral) to provide cash management services, including treasury,
depository, overdraft, credit or debit card, electronic funds transfer and other cash management arrangements.
“Cash Management Bank” means any Person that, (a) at the time it enters into a Cash Management Agreement, is a Lender or an
Affiliate of a Lender, or (b) at the time it (or its Affiliate) becomes a Lender, is a party to a Cash Management Agreement, in each case in its
capacity as a party to such Cash Management Agreement.
“Change in Law” means the occurrence, after the date of this Agreement, of any of the following: (a) the adoption or taking effect of
any law, rule, regulation or treaty, (b) any change in any law, rule regulation or treaty or in the administration, interpretation, implementation or
application thereof by any Governmental Authority or (c) the making or issuance of any request, rule, guideline or directive (whether or not
having the force of law) by any Governmental Authority; provided that notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, (x) the Dodd-Frank
Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and
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all requests, rules, guidelines or directives thereunder or issued in connection therewith or in the implementation thereof and (y) all requests,
rules, guidelines or directives promulgated by the Bank for International Settlements, the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (or any
successor or similar authority) or the United States or foreign regulatory authorities, in each case pursuant to Basel III, shall in each case be
deemed to be a “Change in Law”, regardless of the date enacted, adopted, issued or implemented.
“Change of Control” means (a) the direct or indirect sale, transfer, conveyance or other disposition, in one or a series of related
transactions, of the voting stock in the Company, the result of which is that a Person other than a Permitted Holder becomes the beneficial
owner, directly or indirectly of more than 35% of the voting stock of the Company, measured by voting power rather than number of shares, (b)
a Change of Control as defined in the Indentures or (c) a change of control under any indenture or any similar instrument evidencing any
refinancing, refunding, renewal or extension of any Subordinated Indebtedness. As used herein, “Permitted Holder” means those direct and
indirect beneficial owners of the voting stock of the Company as of the Closing Date. As used herein, voting stock of any Person as of any date
means the capital stock of such Person that at such date is entitled to vote in the election of the Board of Directors of such Person.
“Closing Date” means the first date all the conditions precedent in Section 4.01 are satisfied or waived in accordance with Section
10.01.
“Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
“Collateral” means, collectively, the assets and rights and interests in property of any Person in which the Administrative Agent, on
behalf of the Secured Parties, is granted a Lien under any Security Instrument as security for all or any portion of the Obligations.
“Commitment” means, as to each Lender, the Revolving Commitment, New Vehicle Floorplan Commitment and Used Vehicle
Floorplan Commitment, collectively, of such Lender.
“Committed Borrowing” means a Revolving Committed Borrowing, a New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Borrowing or a Used Vehicle
Floorplan Committed Borrowing, as the context may require.
“Committed Loan” means a Revolving Committed Loan, a New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan or a Used Vehicle Floorplan
Committed Loan, as the context may require.
“Commodity Exchange Act” means the Commodity Exchange Act (7 U.S.C. § 1 et seq.), as amended from time to time, and any
successor statute.
“Communication” means this Agreement, any Loan Document and any document, any amendment, approval, consent, information,
notice, certificate, request, statement, disclosure or authorization related to any Loan Document.
“Company” has the meaning specified in the introductory paragraph hereto.
“Company Guaranty” means that certain Fourth Amended and Restated Company Guaranty Agreement executed by the Company
dated as of the Closing Date in favor of the Administrative Agent and the Lenders, substantially in the form of Exhibit E, as supplemented,
amended, or modified from time to time.
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“Competitor” has the meaning set forth in Section 10.06(b)(v).
“Compliance Certificate” means a certificate substantially in the form of Exhibit G.
“Conforming Changes” means, with respect to the use, administration of or any conventions associated with the Daily Simple SOFR
Published Rate or any proposed Successor Rate or Daily Simple SOFR, as applicable, any conforming changes to the definitions of “Base
Rate”, “Daily Simple SOFR Published Rate” and “Daily Simple SOFR”, timing and frequency of determining rates and making payments of
interest and other technical, administrative or operational matters (including, for the avoidance of doubt, the definition of “Business Day” and
“U.S. Government Securities Business Day”, timing of borrowing requests or prepayment, conversion or continuation notices and length of
lookback periods) as may be appropriate, in the discretion of the Administrative Agent in consultation with the Company, to reflect the
adoption and implementation of such applicable rate(s) and to permit the administration thereof by the Administrative Agent in a manner
substantially consistent with market practice (or, if the Administrative Agent determines that adoption of any portion of such market practice is
not administratively feasible or that no market practice for the administration of such rate exists, in such other manner of administration as the
Administrative Agent determines is reasonably necessary in connection with the administration of this Agreement and any other Loan
Document).
“Connection Income Taxes” means Other Connection Taxes that are imposed on or measured by net income (however denominated) or
that are franchise Taxes or branch profits Taxes.
“Consolidated Adjusted Funded Indebtedness” means, as of any date of determination, for the Company and its Subsidiaries (other than
the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries and any Designated Escrow Subsidiary) on a consolidated basis, (a) Consolidated Funded Indebtedness
minus (b) Permitted Floorplan Indebtedness (in each case, without giving effect to any Loan Repayments From Offset or the New Vehicle
Floorplan Offset Account).
“Consolidated EBITDA” means, for any period, for the Company and its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries
and any Designated Escrow Subsidiary), Consolidated EBITDAR for such period minus Consolidated Rental Expense for such period.
“Consolidated EBITDAR” means, for any period, for the Company and its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance
Subsidiaries and any Designated Escrow Subsidiary), on a consolidated basis, an amount equal to Consolidated Net Income for such period
plus (a) the following, without duplication, to the extent deducted in calculating such Consolidated Net Income: (i) Consolidated Interest
Expense for such period (other than interest expense with respect to Permitted Floorplan Indebtedness), (ii) the provision for Federal, state,
local and foreign income Taxes payable by the Company and its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries) on a
consolidated basis for such period, (iii) depreciation and amortization expense, (iv) other non-cash expenses reducing such Consolidated Net
Income which do not represent a cash item in such period or any future period, (v) all losses on and other expenses related to repurchases of
long-term Indebtedness, (vi) any expenses or charges related to any issuance of Equity Interests, Investment, Acquisition, disposition,
recapitalization or the incurrence or repayment of Indebtedness (including any refinancing thereof) and any amendment or modification to the
terms of any such transactions (in each case, whether or not successful), (vii) any fees, expenses or other costs paid in connection with this
Agreement, (viii) other non-recurring or unusual losses, (ix) any losses on the sale, exchange or other dispositions of assets other than in the
ordinary course of business and (x) Consolidated Rental Expense; minus (b) to the extent included in calculating such Consolidated Net
Income, (i) all non-cash items increasing Consolidated Net Income for such period, (ii) all gains on
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repurchases of long-term Indebtedness, (iii) any gains on the sale, exchange or other dispositions of assets other than in the ordinary course of
business and (iv) other non-recurring or unusual gains; provided, that the sum of clauses (a)(vi), (a)(vii) and (a)(viii) shall not exceed fifteen
percent (15%) of Consolidated EBITDAR for the applicable four-quarter period (calculated after giving effect to any such add-backs).
“Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio” means, as of any date of determination, the ratio of (a) the total of (i) Consolidated
EBITDAR for the four fiscal quarter period most recently ending on or prior to such date for which internal financial statements are available,
less (ii) deemed capital expenditures in an amount equal to $100,000 for each dealer location in existence on such date, to (b) Consolidated
Fixed Charges for such period.
“Consolidated Fixed Charges” means, for any period, the sum of (a) Consolidated Interest Expense for such period (but excluding
interest expense with respect to Permitted Floorplan Indebtedness), plus (b) scheduled amortization during such period of the principal portion
of all indebtedness for money borrowed (other than any balloon, bullet or similar principal payment which repays or refinances such
indebtedness in full) of the Company and its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries and any Designated Escrow
Subsidiary) on a consolidated basis, plus (c) Consolidated Rental Expense for such period, less (d) Consolidated Pro Forma Rent Savings for
such period, plus (e) Taxes paid in cash during such period by the Company and its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance
Subsidiaries and any Designated Escrow Subsidiary) (excluding, any such cash Taxes paid as a result of any gains on repurchases of long-term
Indebtedness), less (f) cash refunds of Federal, state, local and foreign income Taxes received by the Company and its Subsidiaries (other than
the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries and any Designated Escrow Subsidiary) on a consolidated basis during such period.
“Consolidated Funded Indebtedness” means, as of any date of determination, for the Company and its Subsidiaries (other than the
Specified Insurance Subsidiaries and any Designated Escrow Subsidiary) on a consolidated basis, the sum of (a) the outstanding principal
amount of all Indebtedness, whether current or long-term, for borrowed money (including Obligations hereunder) and all obligations evidenced
by bonds, debentures, notes, loan agreements or other similar instruments, (b) all purchase money Indebtedness (other than trade accounts
payable incurred in the ordinary course of business), (c) all direct reimbursement obligations arising under funded or drawn letters of credit
(including standby and commercial), bankers’ acceptances, bank guaranties, surety bonds and similar instruments, (d) all obligations in respect
of the deferred purchase price of property or services (other than trade accounts payable in the ordinary course of business), (e) Attributable
Indebtedness in respect of capital leases, finance leases and Synthetic Lease Obligations, (f) without duplication, all Guarantees with respect to
outstanding Indebtedness of the types specified in clauses (a) through (e) above of Persons other than the Company or any Subsidiary (but
including Guarantees of Indebtedness of any Specified Insurance Subsidiary), and (g) all Indebtedness of the types referred to in clauses (a)
through (f) above of any partnership or joint venture (other than a joint venture that is itself a corporation or limited liability company) in which
the Company or a Subsidiary (other than a Specified Insurance Subsidiary) is a general partner or joint venturer, unless such Indebtedness is
expressly made non-recourse to the Company or such Subsidiary (or is expressly made with limited recourse to the Company or such
Subsidiary, in which case the amount of such Indebtedness (for the purpose of determining Consolidated Funded Indebtedness) is limited to the
extent of such recourse).
“Consolidated Interest Expense” means, for any period, for the Company and its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance
Subsidiaries and any Designated Escrow Subsidiary) on a consolidated basis, the sum of (a) all cash interest, premium payments, debt discount,
fees, charges and
13
related expenses of the Company and its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries and any Designated Escrow Subsidiary)
in connection with borrowed money (including capitalized interest) or in connection with the deferred purchase price of assets, in each case to
the extent treated as interest in accordance with GAAP, and (b) the portion of rent expense of the Company and its Subsidiaries (other than the
Specified Insurance Subsidiaries and any Designated Escrow Subsidiary) with respect to such period under capital leases or finance leases that
is treated as interest in accordance with GAAP.
“Consolidated Net Income” means, for any period, for the Company and its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance
Subsidiaries and any Designated Escrow Subsidiary) on a consolidated basis, the net income of the Company and its Subsidiaries (other than
the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries) (excluding extraordinary gains and extraordinary losses) for that period.
“Consolidated Pro Forma Rent Savings” means the pro forma rent savings associated with any leased properties purchased within the
prior twelve-month period for the Company and its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries and any Designated Escrow
Subsidiary) on a consolidated basis as determined by the Company in good faith.
“Consolidated Rental Expense” means, for any period, for the Company and its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance
Subsidiaries and any Designated Escrow Subsidiary) on a consolidated basis, the aggregate amount of fixed and contingent rentals payable by
the Company and its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries and any Designated Escrow Subsidiary) with respect to
leases of real and personal property (excluding capital lease and finance lease obligations) determined in accordance with GAAP for such
period.
“Consolidated Secured Funded Indebtedness” means, as of any date of determination, for the Company and its Subsidiaries (other than
the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries and any Designated Escrow Subsidiary) on a consolidated basis, the outstanding principal amount of all
Consolidated Funded Indebtedness that is secured by a Lien.
“Consolidated Total Lease Adjusted Leverage Ratio” means, as of any date of determination, the ratio of: (a) the sum of (i)
Consolidated Adjusted Funded Indebtedness as of the date of determination, minus (ii) the sum of (x) the aggregate amount as of the date of
determination of cash on the consolidated balance sheet of the applicable Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries as of such date (to the extent
the use thereof for application to payment of Indebtedness is not prohibited by law or any contract to which any such Person is a party) which
cash is held in deposit accounts subject to Blocked Account Agreements or in deposit accounts maintained with Bank of America, which
ensure, in either case, that the Administrative Agent has a first priority, perfected Lien in such accounts and (y) the Floorplan Offset Amount (if
any) as of such date; plus (iii) six (6) times Consolidated Rental Expense during the Applicable Four-Quarter Period (excluding Consolidated
Rental Expense relating to any real property acquired during such period to the extent any lease on such property is terminated prior to or
simultaneously with such acquisition, but including as Consolidated Rental Expense the “rental payments” for any real property disposed of
and leased back to the Company or its Subsidiaries during such period as if such sale-leaseback transaction had occurred on and such “rental
payments” began on the first day of such applicable four fiscal quarter period) to (b) Consolidated EBITDAR for the Applicable Four-Quarter
Period.
“Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio” means, as of any date of determination, the ratio of: (a) Consolidated Adjusted Funded
Indebtedness as of the date of determination minus the sum of (x) the aggregate amount as of the date of determination of cash on the
consolidated balance sheet of the
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applicable Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries as of such date (to the extent the use thereof for application to payment of Indebtedness is not
prohibited by law or any contract to which any such Person is a party) which is held in deposit accounts subject to Blocked Account
Agreements or in deposit accounts maintained with Bank of America, which ensure, in either case, that the Administrative Agent has a first
priority, perfected Lien in such accounts and (y) the Floorplan Offset Amount (if any) as of such date to (b) Consolidated EBITDA for the
Applicable Four-Quarter Period.
“Contract-in-Transit” means a contract-in-transit with respect to any Vehicle.
“Contractual Obligation” means, as to any Person, any provision of any security issued by such Person or of any agreement, instrument
or other undertaking to which such Person is a party or by which it or any of its property is bound.
“Control” means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management or policies of a
Person, whether through the ability to exercise voting power, by contract or otherwise. “Controlling” and “Controlled” have meanings
correlative thereto.
“Conversion Notice” means a notice from the Company delivered pursuant to Section 2.14 requesting that any portion of the Aggregate
Revolving Commitments be converted into Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments or Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan
Commitments, or that any portion of the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments or Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments
be converted to Aggregate Revolving Commitments, which notice, in either case, shall be substantially in the form of Exhibit P.
“Cost of Acquisition” means, with respect to any Acquisition, as at the date of the consummation of such Acquisition, the sum of the
following (without duplication): (i) the value of the Equity Interests of any Subsidiary to be transferred in connection with such Acquisition, (ii)
the amount of any cash and fair market value of other property (excluding property of the type described in clause (i) and the unpaid principal
amount of any debt instrument) given as consideration in connection with such Acquisition as reasonably determined by the Company in good
faith, (iii) the amount (determined by using the face amount or the amount payable at maturity, whichever is greater) of any Indebtedness
assumed by the Company or any Subsidiary in connection with such Acquisition, (iv) all additional purchase price amounts in the form of
earnouts and other contingent obligations that should be recorded on the financial statements of the Company and its Subsidiaries in accordance
with GAAP in connection with such Acquisition, (v) all amounts paid in respect of covenants not to compete, consulting agreements that
should be recorded on the financial statements of the Company and its Subsidiaries in accordance with GAAP, and other affiliated contracts in
connection with such Acquisition, and (vi) the aggregate fair market value of all other consideration (other than Equity Interests of the
Company) given by the Company or any Subsidiary in connection with such Acquisition as reasonably determined by the Company in good
faith; provided that the Cost of Acquisition shall not include the purchase price of floored vehicles acquired in connection with such
Acquisition. For purposes of determining the Cost of Acquisition for any transaction, the Equity Interests of the Company or any Subsidiary
shall be valued in accordance with GAAP.
“Covered Entity” has the meaning specified in Section 10.22(b).
“Credit Extension” means each of the following: (a) a Revolving Borrowing, (b) an L/C Credit Extension, (c) a New Vehicle Floorplan
Borrowing and (d) a Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing.
“Daily Simple SOFR” means:
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(a)
with respect to a Daily Simple SOFR Loan, the rate per annum equal to the Daily Simple SOFR Published Rate determined for
any day pursuant to the definition thereof, in each case, plus the SOFR Adjustment; and
(b)
for any interest calculation with respect to a Base Rate Loan on any date, the rate per annum equal to Daily Simple SOFR
Published Rate on such date, plus the SOFR Adjustment;
provided that if Daily Simple SOFR determined in accordance with either of the foregoing provisions (a) or (b) of this definition would
otherwise be less than zero, Daily Simple SOFR shall be deemed zero for purposes of this Agreement.
Any change in Daily Simple SOFR shall be effective from and including the date of such change without further notice.
“Daily Simple SOFR Committed Loan” means a Revolving Committed Loan, a New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan or a Used
Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan, as the context may require, that bears interest at a rate based on Daily Simple SOFR.
“Daily Simple SOFR Loan” means a Daily Simple SOFR Committed Loan or a Revolving Swing Line Loan, a New Vehicle Floorplan
Swing Line Loan or a Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan that, in each case, bears interest at a rate based on Daily Simple SOFR.
“Daily Simple SOFR Published Rate” with respect to any applicable determination date means the Secured Overnight Financing Rate
published on the second U.S. Government Securities Business Day preceding such date by the SOFR Administrator on the Federal Reserve
Bank of New York’s website (or any successor source); provided however that if such determination date is not a U.S. Government Securities
Business Day, then Daily Simple SOFR Published Rate means such rate that applied on the first U.S. Government Securities Business Day
immediately prior thereto.
“Daily Simple SOFR Replacement Date” has the meaning specified in Section 3.03(b).
“Debtor Relief Laws” means the Bankruptcy Code of the United States, and all other liquidation, conservatorship, bankruptcy,
assignment for the benefit of creditors, moratorium, rearrangement, receivership, insolvency, reorganization, or similar debtor relief Laws of the
United States or other applicable jurisdictions from time to time in effect.
“Deemed Floored” means, with respect to each New Vehicle, the date a New Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing is deemed to be made by a
New Vehicle Floorplan Lender, including the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, under the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility.
“Deemed To Be A Mileage Vehicle” means, with respect to any New Vehicle which has been Deemed Floored, the date such New
Vehicle is deemed to be a Demonstrator, Rental Vehicle or other mileaged New Vehicle under the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility, which such
date may be the same day as, or a date after, the date such New Vehicle is Deemed Floored.
“Default” means any event or condition that constitutes a Revolving/Used Vehicle Event of Default or a New Vehicle Event of Default
or that, with the giving of any notice, the passage of time, or both, would be a Revolving/Used Vehicle Event of Default or a New Vehicle
Event of Default.
“Default Rate” means (a) when used with respect to Obligations other than Letter of Credit Fees, an interest rate equal to (i) the Base
Rate plus (ii) the Applicable Rate, if any, applicable to Base Rate
16
Loans plus (iii) 2% per annum; provided, however, that with respect to a Daily Simple SOFR Loan, the Default Rate shall be an interest rate
equal to the interest rate (including any Applicable Rate) otherwise applicable to such Loan plus 2% per annum, and (b) when used with respect
to Letter of Credit Fees, a rate equal to the Applicable Rate plus 2% per annum.
“Defaulting Lender” means, subject to Section 2.27(b), any Lender that, (a) has failed to (i) fund all or any portion of its Loans within
two Business Days of the date such Loans were required to be funded hereunder, unless such Lender notifies the Administrative Agent and the
Company in writing that such failure is the result of such Lender’s determination that one or more conditions precedent to funding (each of
which conditions precedent, together with any applicable default, shall be specifically identified in such writing) has not been satisfied, or (ii)
pay to the Administrative Agent, any L/C Issuer, any Swing Line Lender, or any other Lender any other amount required to be paid by it
hereunder (including in respect of its participation in Letters of Credit or Swing Line Loans) within two Business Days of the date when due,
(b) has notified the Company, the Administrative Agent, any L/C Issuer, or any Swing Line Lender in writing that it does not intend to comply
with its funding obligations hereunder, or has made a public statement to that effect (unless such writing or public statement relates to such
Lender’s obligation to fund a Loan hereunder and states that such position is based on such Lender’s determination that a condition precedent
to funding (which condition precedent, together with any applicable default, shall be specifically identified in such writing or public statement)
cannot be satisfied), (c) has failed, within three Business Days after written request by the Administrative Agent or the Company, to confirm in
writing to the Administrative Agent and the Company that it will comply with its prospective funding obligations hereunder (provided that such
Lender shall cease to be a Defaulting Lender pursuant to this clause (c) upon receipt of such written confirmation by the Administrative Agent
and the Company) or (d) has, or has a direct or indirect parent company that has, (i) become the subject of a proceeding under any Debtor
Relief Law, or (ii) had appointed for it a receiver, custodian, conservator, trustee, administrator, assignee for the benefit of creditors or similar
Person charged with reorganization or liquidation of its business or assets, including the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
state or federal regulatory authority acting in such a capacity or (iii) become the subject of a Bail-In Action; provided that a Lender shall not be
a Defaulting Lender solely by virtue of the ownership or acquisition of any Equity Interest in that Lender or any direct or indirect parent
company thereof by a Governmental Authority so long as such ownership interest does not result in or provide such Lender with immunity
from the jurisdiction of courts within the United States or from the enforcement of judgments or writs of attachment on its assets or permit such
Lender (or such Governmental Authority) to reject, repudiate, disavow or disaffirm any contracts or agreements made with such Lender. Any
determination by the Administrative Agent that a Lender is a Defaulting Lender under any one or more of clauses (a) through (d) above, and of
the effective date of such status, shall be conclusive and binding absent manifest error, and such Lender shall be deemed to be a Defaulting
Lender (subject to Section 2.27(b)) as of the date established therefor by the Administrative Agent in a written notice of such determination,
which shall be delivered by the Administrative Agent to the Company, each L/C Issuer, each Swing Line Lender and each other Lender
promptly following such determination.
“Designated Escrow Subsidiary” means a wholly-owned Subsidiary that is formed by the Company or any of its Subsidiaries for the
sole purpose of incurring Indebtedness the proceeds of which will be subject to an escrow or other similar arrangement; provided that upon the
termination of all such escrow or similar arrangements (but in any event no later than the consummation of the applicable Acquisition), such
Subsidiary shall cease to constitute a “Designated Escrow Subsidiary” hereunder and shall be dissolved or shall merge with and into the
Company or one of its Restricted Subsidiaries. Prior to its dissolution or merger with and into such Person, the Designated Escrow Subsidiary
shall not own, hold or otherwise have any interest in any material assets other than the proceeds of the applicable
17
Indebtedness incurred by the Designated Escrow Subsidiary and any cash or cash equivalents invested in such Designated Escrow Subsidiary to
cover interest and premium in respect of such Indebtedness.
“Demonstrator” means a New Vehicle that (i) has not been previously titled (other than to a New Vehicle Borrower in accordance with
applicable law), (ii) is the then current model year or last model year, (iii) has an odometer reading of less than 7500 miles and (iv) is
designated by the applicable New Vehicle Borrower as such.
“Designated Jurisdiction” means any country or territory to the extent that such country or territory itself is the subject of any Sanction.
“Disposition” or “Dispose” means the sale, transfer, license, lease or other disposition (including any sale and leaseback transaction) of
any property by any Person, including any sale, assignment, transfer or other disposal, with or without recourse, of any notes or accounts
receivable or any rights and claims associated therewith and including any disposition of property pursuant to a Division.
“Disposition Proceeds” means, with respect to any Disposition, as at the date of such Disposition, the sum of the following (without
duplication): (i) the amount of any cash and fair market value of other property received as consideration in connection with such Disposition,
(ii) all consideration amounts in the form of earnouts and other contingent obligations that should be recorded on the financial statements of the
Company and its Subsidiaries in accordance with GAAP in connection with such Disposition, (iii) all amounts received in respect of covenants
not to compete, consulting agreements that should be recorded on the financial statements of the Company and its Subsidiaries in accordance
with GAAP, and other affiliated contracts in connection with such Disposition, and (iv) the aggregate fair market value of all other
consideration received by the Company or any Subsidiary in connection with such Disposition; provided that the Disposition Proceeds shall not
include (a) the sale price of floored Vehicles disposed of in connection with such Disposition or (b) any amount used to pay off Liens (other
than Liens created by the Loan Documents) on any property disposed of in connection with such Disposition.
“Disqualified Stock” means, with respect to any Person, any Equity Interests of such Person which by its terms (or by the terms of any
security or other Equity Interests into which it is convertible or for which it is exchangeable) or upon the happening of any event:
(a) matures or is mandatorily redeemable for cash or in exchange for Indebtedness pursuant to a sinking fund obligation or otherwise;
or
(b) is or may become (in accordance with its terms) upon the occurrence of certain events or otherwise redeemable or repurchasable
for cash or in exchange for Indebtedness at the option of the holder of the Equity Interests in whole or in part, in each case on or prior to the
date that is ninety-one (91) days after the latest Maturity Date in effect at the time of issuance thereof; provided, however, that (i) only the
portion of Equity Interests which so matures or is mandatorily redeemable, is so convertible or exchangeable or is so redeemable at the option
of the holder thereof prior to such date will be deemed to be Disqualified Stock and (ii) any Equity Interests that would constitute Disqualified
Stock solely because the holders thereof have the right to require such Person to repurchase such Equity Interests upon the occurrence of a
change of control or asset sale (howsoever defined or referred to) shall not constitute Disqualified Stock if any such redemption or repurchase
obligation is subject to compliance by the relevant Person with Section 7.10; provided, however, that if such Equity Interests are issued to any
plan for the benefit of employees of the Company or its Subsidiaries or by any such plan to such employees, such Equity Interests shall not
constitute Disqualified Stock solely because it may be required to be
18
repurchased by the Company or its Subsidiaries in order to satisfy applicable statutory or regulatory obligations.
“Dividing Person” has the meaning assigned to it in the definition of “Division.”
“Division” means the division of the assets, liabilities and/or obligations of a Person (the “Dividing Person”) among two or more
Persons (whether pursuant to a “plan of division” or similar arrangement), which may or may not include the Dividing Person and pursuant to
which the Dividing Person may or may not survive.
“Dollar” and “$” mean lawful money of the United States.
“Domestic Subsidiary” means any Subsidiary that is not a Foreign Subsidiary.
“DQ List” has the meaning specified in Section 10.06(l)(iv).
“EEA Financial Institution” means (a) any credit institution or investment firm established in any EEA Member Country which is
subject to the supervision of an EEA Resolution Authority, (b) any entity established in an EEA Member Country which is a parent of an
institution described in clause (a) of this definition, or (c) any financial institution established in an EEA Member Country which is a
Subsidiary of an institution described in clauses (a) or (b) of this definition and is subject to consolidated supervision with its parent.
“EEA Member Country” means any of the member states of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway.
“EEA Resolution Authority” means any public administrative authority or any person entrusted with public administrative authority of
any EEA Member Country (including any delegee) having responsibility for the resolution of any EEA Financial Institution.
“Electronic Record” and “Electronic Signature” shall have the meanings assigned to them, respectively, by 15 USC §7006,
as it may be amended from time to time.
“Eligible Accounts” means the Accounts, other than Contracts-in-Transit, of the Company and the Subsidiary Guarantors, which
Accounts arise from the sale, lease or license of goods or rendition of services in the ordinary course of business;
provided that (a) Eligible Accounts shall not (unless otherwise agreed to by the Administrative Agent) include any Account:
(i)
with respect to which any of the representations, warranties, covenants, and agreements contained in the Loan
Documents are incorrect or have been breached in any material respect;
(ii)
except as provided in clause (b)(viii) below, with respect to which either the perfection, enforceability, or validity of
the Administrative Agent’s Liens in such Account, or the Administrative Agent’s right or ability to obtain direct payment to the
Administrative Agent of the proceeds of such Account, is governed by any federal, state, or local statutory requirements other than
those of the UCC;
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(iii)
owed by an Account Debtor which is obligated to the Company or the applicable Subsidiary representing Accounts the
aggregate unpaid balance of which exceeds twenty-five percent (25%) of the aggregate unpaid balance of all Accounts owed to the
Company or the applicable Subsidiary at such time by all of the Company’s or the applicable Subsidiary’s Account Debtors, but only to
the extent of such excess; or
(iv)
that is not subject to the Administrative Agent’s Liens which are perfected as to such Accounts, or that is subject to any
other Lien whatsoever other than Borrowing Base Permitted Liens; and
provided, further, that (b) the following Accounts shall not be Eligible Accounts to the extent (but only to the extent) that the aggregate
Net Book Value of all such Accounts constitutes more than 10% of the Net Book Value of all otherwise Eligible Accounts:
(i)
any Account with respect to which more than 90 days have elapsed since the date of the original invoice therefor or
which is more than 60 days past due;
(ii)
any Account with respect to which Account (or any other Account due from such Account Debtor), in whole or in part,
a check, promissory note, draft, trade acceptance or other instrument for the payment of money has been received, presented for
payment and returned uncollected for any reason;
(iii)
any Account that represents a progress billing (as hereinafter defined) or as to which the Company or any Subsidiary
has extended the time for payment without the consent of the Administrative Agent; for the purposes hereof, “progress billing” means
any invoice for goods sold or leased or services rendered under a contract or agreement pursuant to which the Account Debtor’s
obligation to pay such invoice is conditioned upon the Company’s or the applicable Subsidiary’s completion of any further performance
under the contract or agreement;
(iv)
any Account with respect to which any one or more of the following events has occurred to the Account Debtor on
such Account: death or judicial declaration of incompetency of an Account Debtor who is an individual; the filing by or against the
Account Debtor of a request or petition for liquidation, reorganization, arrangement, adjustment of debts, adjudication as a bankrupt,
winding-up, or other relief under Debtor Relief Laws; the making of any general assignment by the Account Debtor for the benefit of
creditors; the appointment of a receiver or trustee for the Account Debtor or for any of the assets of the Account Debtor, including,
without limitation, the appointment of or taking possession by a “custodian,” as defined in the Bankruptcy Code of the United States;
the institution by or against the Account Debtor of any other type of insolvency proceeding (under Debtor Relief Laws or otherwise) or
of any formal or informal proceeding for the dissolution or liquidation of, settlement of claims against, or winding up of affairs of, the
Account Debtor; the sale, assignment, or transfer of all or any material part of the assets of the Account Debtor; the nonpayment
generally by the Account Debtor of its debts as they become due; or the cessation of the business of the Account Debtor as a going
concern;
(v)
any Account owed by an Account Debtor which: (1) does not maintain its chief executive office in the United States or
Canada; (2) is not organized under the laws of the United States, Canada or any state or province thereof; (3) is not, if a natural person,
a citizen of the United States or Canada residing therein; or (4) is a Governmental Authority of any foreign country or sovereign state,
or of any state, province, municipality, or other political subdivision thereof;
(vi)
any Account owed by an Account Debtor which is an Affiliate, officer, director or employee of the Company or any
Subsidiary;
(vii)
any Account owed by an Account Debtor to which the Company or any Subsidiary is indebted in any way, or with
respect to which the Company or such Subsidiary has knowledge or notice that such Account is subject to any right of setoff or
recoupment by the
20
Account Debtor (including, without limitation, all Accounts that are subject to any agreement encumbering or limiting in any manner
the Company’s or any Subsidiary’s access to such Accounts), unless the Account Debtor has entered into an agreement acceptable to
the Administrative Agent to waive setoff rights; or if the Account Debtor thereon has disputed liability or made any claim with respect
to any other Account due from such Account Debtor, but in each such case only to the extent of such indebtedness, setoff, recoupment,
dispute, or claim;
(viii)
any Account owed by any Governmental Authority, unless the Federal Assignment of Claims Act of 1940, as amended
(31 U.S.C. § 3727 et seq.), and any other steps necessary to perfect the Administrative Agent’s Liens therein, have been complied with
to the Administrative Agent’s satisfaction with respect to such Account;
(ix)
any Account owed by any Governmental Authority and as to which the Administrative Agent determines that its Lien
therein is not or cannot be perfected;
(x)
any Account which represents a sale on a bill-and-hold, guaranteed sale, sale and return, sale on approval,
consignment, or other repurchase or return basis;
(xi)
any Account which is evidenced by a promissory note or other instrument or by chattel paper;
(xii)
any Account with respect to which the Account Debtor is located in any state requiring the filing of a Notice of
Business Activities Report or similar report in order to permit the Company or any Subsidiary to seek judicial enforcement in such state
of payment of such Account, unless the Company or any Subsidiary has qualified to do business in such state or has filed a Notice of
Business Activities Report or equivalent report for the then current year;
(xiii)
any Account that arises out of a sale not made in the ordinary course of the Company’s or the applicable Subsidiary’s
business or out of finance or similar charges;
(xiv)
any Account with respect to which the goods giving rise to such Account have not been shipped and delivered to and
accepted by the Account Debtor or the services giving rise to such Account have not been performed by the Company or the applicable
Subsidiary and, if applicable, accepted by the Account Debtor, or the Account Debtor revokes its acceptance of such goods or services;
(xv)
any Account in which the payment thereof has been extended beyond 90 days from the date of the original invoice
thereof, the Account Debtor has made a partial payment, or such Account arises from a sale on a cash-on-delivery basis; or
(xvi)
any Account which includes a billing for interest, fees or late charges, provided that ineligibility shall be limited to the
extent of such billing.
The Company, by including an Account in any computation of the Borrowing Base, shall be deemed to represent and warrant to the
Administrative Agent and the Lenders that (y) such Account is not of the type described in any of (a)(i) through (iv) above and (z) at least 90%
of the Accounts included as Eligible Accounts in the computation of such Borrowing Base are not of the type described in any of (b)(i) through
(xvi) above; and if any Account at any time ceases to be an Eligible Account, then such Account shall promptly be excluded by the Company
from the calculation of Eligible Accounts. If the Administrative Agent or the Required Lenders have reasonable grounds to believe that an
Account is of the type described in any of clauses (a)(i) through (iv) above or that any Account or Accounts cause the calculation of the
Borrowing Base to violate proviso (b) above, the Administrative Agent shall inform the Company of the grounds for such belief and shall
request confirmation by the Company of the eligibility of such Account or Accounts. Prior to confirmation of the eligibility thereof by the
Company, such
21
Account or Accounts shall not be considered Eligible Accounts and no representation and warranty shall have been deemed made with respect
thereto.
“Eligible Assignee” means any Person that meets the requirements to be an assignee under Section 10.06(b)(iii), and (v) (subject to
such consents, if any, as may be required under Section 10.06(b)(iii)).
“Eligible Borrowing Base Real Estate” means any real property of the Company or a Subsidiary Guarantor;
provided that Eligible Borrowing Base Real Estate shall not include any real property unless:
(i)
the property is owned in fee simple by a Borrower or a Subsidiary Guarantor,
(ii)
the property is not subject to any lien or encumbrances (other than Borrowing Base Permitted Liens) and the Company
or such Subsidiary Guarantor, as applicable, shall not have entered into any agreement prohibiting or limiting its ability to grant a Lien
on such property to the Administrative Agent to secure the Obligations,
(iii)
the property is utilized by or leased to a Borrower or Subsidiary Guarantor that is a vehicle dealership or is an
operating entity involved in the sale, repair, service or storage of auto vehicles,
(iv)
the owner name, address(es), tenant(s), value(s), valuation type (appraisal or tax assessed) and date(s) of valuation
included for such Eligible Borrowing Base Real Estate are detailed quarterly in a revolving borrowing base certificate (and, if
applicable, the Pro Forma Revolving Borrowing Base Certificate first reflecting such property) delivered to the Administrative Agent,
(v)
such Eligible Borrowing Base Real Estate is located in a state within the United States or in the District of Columbia,
(vi)
the Administrative Agent has received a FIRREA-conforming appraisal for such property of the current value of such
property or, in the event that a FIRREA-conforming appraisal cannot be obtained prior to the date such real estate is intended to be
included in the Revolving Borrowing Base after commercially reasonable efforts, a report as to the tax assessed value for such property,
in each case in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent and as of a date that is within 12 months before
the date of the first Revolving Borrowing Base Certificate that reflects such property, which appraisal or tax assessed value report shall
be delivered by the Administrative Agent to the Lenders upon receipt by the Administrative Agent,
(vii)
if such real property has been deemed Eligible Borrowing Base Real Estate for 60 consecutive months or longer (a)
then with respect to each fifth anniversary of the date such property was first deemed Eligible Borrowing Base Real Estate, the
Administrative Agent has received (x) a new or updated FIRREA-conforming appraisal or, in the event that a FIRREA-conforming
appraisal cannot be obtained prior to the date required below after commercially reasonable efforts, a report as to tax assessment value
as of a date within sixty (60) days of such anniversary, in each case in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative
Agent and which appraisal or tax assessment report shall be delivered to the Lenders by the Administrative Agent upon receipt by the
Administrative Agent, and (b) the Administrative Agent, in its reasonable discretion, has not determined that such property is
unacceptable or unmortgageable. Such determination shall be made each 90 days after such 60-month period and which determination
shall take into account whether there is sufficient closing cost liquidity and market access available to the Company to consummate a
mortgage financing and recordation in the open market; provided that if the Administrative Agent deems such real property not to be
22
acceptable or mortgageable, the Administrative Agent shall notify the Company in writing of such determination and such real property
shall cease to be Eligible Borrowing Base Real Estate 90 days after delivery of such written notice to the Company of such
determination by the Administrative Agent, and
(viii)
after the occurrence of an Event of Default, the Company shall deliver to the Administrative Agent, promptly after the
Administrative Agent’s written request, any of the following so requested with respect to any Eligible Borrowing Base Real Estate (i) a
new or updated FIRREA-conforming appraisal, evaluation, or report as of such date as the Administrative Agent requires to determine
the value of such property, (ii) a Phase I (or if recommended by such Phase I, Phase II) environmental report and such other
environmental audits, assessments, studies and reports as the Administrative Agent requires, prepared by a geotechnical engineer or
other qualified Person acceptable to the Administrative Agent, (iii) a title report, and (iv) flood hazard certificates, and if applicable,
evidence of flood insurance coverage.
(ix)
With respect to the FIRREA-conforming appraisal or tax assessment report, as the case may be, provided in connection with
clause (vii) above, (1) if the appraisal or tax assessment report, as the case may be, shows that the value of the property has decreased
in value, the value of the Eligible Borrowing Base Real Estate will be reduced by a corresponding amount and (2) if the appraisal or tax
assessment report, as the case may be, shows that the value of the property has increased in value, the value of the Eligible Borrowing
Base Real Estate will be increased by a corresponding amount. Each such FIRREA-conforming appraisal shall be performed by an
appraiser engaged by the Administrative Agent and must be delivered to the Administrative Agent. If the Company desires to remove
any real property from the Revolving Borrowing Base, the Company shall deliver to the Administrative Agent a Pro Forma Revolving
Borrowing Certificate (reflecting the exclusion of such property), and the Revolving Borrowing Base and Revolving Advance Limit
shall be adjusted immediately in accordance with such certificate.
“Eligible Contracts-in-Transit” means the Contracts-in-Transit of the Company and the Subsidiary Guarantors;
provided that (a) Eligible Contracts-in-Transit shall not (unless otherwise agreed to by the Administrative Agent) include any Contract-
in-Transit:
(i)
with respect to which any of the representations, warranties, covenants, and agreements contained in the Loan
Documents are incorrect or have been breached in any material respect;
(ii)
with respect to which either the perfection, enforceability, or validity of the Administrative Agent’s Liens in such
Contract-in-Transit, or the Administrative Agent’s right or ability to obtain direct payment to the Administrative Agent of the proceeds
of such Contract-in-Transit, is governed by any federal, state, or local statutory requirements other than those of the UCC; or
(iii)
that is not subject to the Administrative Agent’s Liens which are perfected as to such Contract-in-Transit, or that is
subject to any other Lien whatsoever other than Borrowing Base Permitted Liens; and
provided, further, that (b) the following Contracts-in-Transit shall not be Eligible Contracts-in-Transit to the extent (but only to the
extent) that the aggregate Net Book Value of all such Contracts-in-Transit constitutes more than 10% of the Net Book Value of all otherwise
Eligible Contracts-in-Transit:
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(i)
any Contract-in-Transit with respect to which more than 12 days have elapsed since the sale of the applicable Vehicle;
(ii)
any Contract-in-Transit with respect to which Contract-in-Transit (or any other Contract-in-Transit due from such
financial institution), in whole or in part, a check, promissory note, draft, trade acceptance or other instrument for the payment of
money has been received, presented for payment and returned uncollected for any reason;
(iii)
any Contract-in-Transit with respect to which any one or more of the following events has occurred to the respective
financial institution: the filing by or against the financial institution of a request or petition for insolvency, liquidation, reorganization,
arrangement, adjustment of debts, adjudication as a bankrupt, winding-up, or other relief under Debtor Relief Laws; the making of any
general assignment by the financial institution for the benefit of creditors; the appointment of a receiver or trustee for the financial
institution or for any of the assets of the financial institution, including, without limitation, the appointment of or taking possession by a
“custodian,” as defined in the Bankruptcy Code of the United States; the institution by or against the financial institution of any other
type of insolvency proceeding (under Debtor Relief Laws or otherwise) or of any formal or informal proceeding for the dissolution or
liquidation of, settlement of claims against, or winding up of affairs of, the financial institution; the sale, assignment, or transfer of all
or any material part of the assets of the financial institution; the nonpayment generally by the financial institution of its debts as they
become due; or the cessation of the business of the financial institution as a going concern;
(iv)
any Contract-in-Transit provided by a financial institution which is an Affiliate of the Company or any Subsidiary;
(v)
any Contract-in-Transit which is subject to any right of setoff or recoupment by the financial institution (including,
without limitation, all Contracts-in-Transit that are subject to any agreement encumbering or limiting in any manner the Company’s or
any Subsidiary’s access to such Contracts-in-Transit), unless the financial institution has entered into an agreement acceptable to the
Administrative Agent to waive setoff rights; or if the financial institution has disputed liability or made any claim with respect to any
other Contract-in-Transit due from such financial institution, but in each such case only to the extent of such indebtedness, setoff,
recoupment, dispute, or claim;
(vi)
any Contract-in-Transit that arises out of a sale not made in the ordinary course of the Company’s or the applicable
Subsidiary’s business; or
(vii)
any Contract-in-Transit with respect to which the Vehicle giving rise to such Contract-in-Transit has not been delivered
to and accepted by the applicable customer.
The Company, by including a Contract-in-Transit in any computation of the Borrowing Base, shall be deemed to represent and warrant to the
Administrative Agent and the Lenders that (y) such Contract-in-Transit is not of the type described in any of (a)(i) through (iii) above and (z) at
least 90% of the Contracts-in-Transit included as Eligible Contracts-in-Transit in the computation of such Borrowing Base are not of the type
described in any of (b)(i) through (vii) above; and if any Contract-in-Transit at any time ceases to be an Eligible Contract-in-Transit, then such
Contract-in-Transit shall promptly be excluded by the Company from the calculation of Eligible Contracts-in-Transit. If the Administrative
Agent or the Required Lenders have reasonable grounds to believe that a Contract-in-Transit is of the type described in any of clauses (a)(i)
through (iii) above or that any Contract-in-Transit or Contracts-in-Transit cause the calculation of the Borrowing Base to violate proviso (b)
above, the Administrative Agent shall inform the Company of the grounds for such belief and shall request confirmation by the Company of the
eligibility of such Contract-in-Transit or Contracts-in-Transit. Prior to confirmation of the eligibility thereof by the Company, such Contract-in-
Transit or Contracts-in-Transit shall not be
24
considered Eligible Contracts-in-Transit and no representation and warranty shall have been deemed made with respect thereto.
“Eligible Equipment” means Equipment of the Company or a Subsidiary Guarantor;
provided that (a) Eligible Equipment shall not (unless otherwise agreed to by the Administrative Agent) include any Equipment:
(i)
that is not legally owned by the Company or a Subsidiary; or
(ii)
that is not subject to the Administrative Agent’s Liens which are perfected as to such Equipment, or that is subject to
any other Lien whatsoever other than Borrowing Base Permitted Liens; and
provided, further, that (b) the following Equipment shall not be Eligible Equipment to the extent (but only to the extent) that the
aggregate Net Book Value of all such Equipment constitutes more than 10% of the Net Book Value of all otherwise Eligible
Equipment:
(i)
Equipment that is not in good working condition for its intended use or for sale; or
(ii)
Equipment that is located outside the United States or at a location other than a place of business of the Company or a
Subsidiary.
The Company, by including Equipment in any computation of the Borrowing Base, shall be deemed to represent and warrant to the
Administrative Agent and the Lenders that (y) such Equipment is not of the type described in any of (a)(i) through (ii) above and (z) at least
90% of the Equipment included as Eligible Equipment in the computation of such Borrowing Base is not of the type described in any of (b)(i)
through (ii) above, and if any Equipment at any time ceases to be Eligible Equipment, then such Equipment shall promptly be excluded by the
Company from the calculation of Eligible Equipment. If the Administrative Agent or the Required Lenders have reasonable grounds to believe
that an item of Equipment is of the type described in any of clauses (a)(i) through (ii) above or that any item of Equipment causes the
calculation of the Borrowing Base to violate proviso (b) above, the Administrative Agent shall inform the Company of the grounds for such
belief and shall request confirmation by the Company of the eligibility of such Equipment. Prior to confirmation of the eligibility thereof by the
Company, such Equipment shall not be considered Eligible Equipment and no representation and warranty shall have been deemed made with
respect thereto.
“Eligible New Vehicle Inventory” means New Vehicles each of which is an automobile or light-duty truck and is owned by a New
Vehicle Borrower;
provided that Eligible New Vehicle Inventory shall not (unless otherwise agreed to by the Administrative Agent) include any New
Vehicle unless:
(i)
the New Vehicle is subject to a perfected, first priority Lien in favor of the Administrative Agent for the benefit of the
Secured Parties pursuant to the Security Instruments, free of any title defect or other Lien other than Borrowing Base Permitted Liens;
(ii)
except as set forth in Section 6.13, the New Vehicle is located at one of the locations identified in Schedule 5.18 (as
updated from time to time in accordance with Section 6.13); and
25
(iii)
the New Vehicle is held for sale in the ordinary course of a New Vehicle Borrower’s business (or is a Rental Vehicle,
Demonstrator or Fleet Vehicle) and is of good and merchantable quality.
The Company, by including a New Vehicle in any computation of the Revolving Borrowing Base, shall be deemed to represent and warrant to
the Administrative Agent and the Lenders that such Vehicle satisfies each of the requirements set forth in (i) through (iii) above. If the
Administrative Agent or the Required Lenders have reasonable grounds to believe that a New Vehicle does not satisfy any of clauses (i)
through (iii) above, the Administrative Agent shall inform the Company of the grounds for such belief and shall request confirmation by the
Company of the eligibility of such New Vehicle. Prior to confirmation of the eligibility thereof by the Company, such New Vehicle shall not be
considered Eligible New Vehicle Inventory and no representation and warranty shall have been deemed made with respect thereto.
“Eligible Parts and Accessories Inventory” means Inventory consisting of parts and accessories (but specifically excluding Vehicles and
parts and accessories affixed thereto), which Inventory is owned by the Company or a Subsidiary that is a Guarantor;
provided that (a) Eligible Parts and Accessories Inventory shall not (unless otherwise agreed to by the Administrative Agent) include
any Inventory:
(i)
that is not owned by the Company or a Subsidiary that is a Guarantor;
(ii)
that is not subject to the Administrative Agent’s Liens which are perfected as to such Inventory, or that is subject to any
other Lien whatsoever, other than Borrowing Base Permitted Liens;
(iii)
that is not currently either usable or salable, at prices approximating at least cost, in the normal course of the
Company’s or the applicable Subsidiary’s business, or that is slow moving or stale;
(iv)
that is obsolete; or
(v)
that is Inventory placed on consignment; and
provided further that (b) the following Inventory shall not be Eligible Parts and Accessories Inventory to the extent (but only to the
extent) that the aggregate Net Book Value of all such Inventory constitutes more than 10% of the Net Book Value of all otherwise Eligible Parts
and Accessories Inventory:
(i)
Inventory that does not consist of finished goods;
(ii)
Inventory that consists of raw materials, work-in-process, chemicals (other than gas, oil and grease), samples,
prototypes, supplies, or packing and shipping materials;
(iii)
Inventory that is not in good condition, is unmerchantable or does not meet all standards imposed by any
Governmental Authority, having regulatory authority over such goods, their use or sale;
(iv)
Inventory that is returned or repossessed or used goods taken in trade;
(v)
Inventory that is located outside the United States of America or Canada (or that is in-transit from vendors or
suppliers); or
26
(vi)
Inventory that is located in a public warehouse or in possession of a bailee, if the warehouseman or the bailee has not
delivered to the Administrative Agent, if requested by the Administrative Agent, a subordination agreement in form and substance
reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent.
The Company, by including Inventory in any computation of the Borrowing Base, shall be deemed to represent and warrant to the
Administrative Agent and the Lenders that (y) such Inventory is not of the type described in any of (a)(i) through (v) above and (z) at least 90%
of the Inventory included as Eligible Inventory in the computation of such Borrowing Base is not of the type described in any of (b)(i) through
(vi) above, and if any Inventory at any time ceases to be Eligible Parts and Accessories Inventory, such Inventory shall promptly be excluded
by the Company from the calculation of Eligible Parts and Accessories Inventory. If the Administrative Agent or the Required Lenders have
reasonable grounds to believe that an item of Inventory is of the type described in any of clauses (a)(i) through (v) above or that any item of
Inventory causes the calculation of the Borrowing Base to violate proviso (b) above, the Administrative Agent shall inform the Company of the
grounds for such belief and shall request confirmation by the Company of the eligibility of such Inventory. Prior to confirmation of the
eligibility thereof by the Company, such Inventory shall not be considered Eligible Parts and Accessories Inventory and no representation and
warranty shall have been deemed made with respect thereto.
“Eligible Used Vehicle Inventory” means Used Vehicles that are automobiles or light-duty trucks and are owned by a Used Vehicle
Borrower;
provided that Eligible Used Vehicle Inventory shall not (unless otherwise agreed to by the Administrative Agent) include any Used
Vehicle unless:
(i)
the Used Vehicle is subject to a perfected, first priority Lien in favor of the Administrative Agent for the benefit of the
Secured Parties pursuant to the Security Instruments, free from any title defect or other Lien other than Borrowing Base Permitted
Liens;
(ii)
the Used Vehicle is properly titled in a Used Vehicle Borrower’s name or the certificate of title for such Used Vehicle is
endorsed in blank by the prior owners and such Used Vehicle Borrower physically holds such certificates of title (or such Used Vehicle
Borrower has, in accordance with its standard policies and procedures, initiated the process by which the requirements of this clause (b)
will be satisfied);
(iii)
except as set forth in Section 6.13, the Used Vehicle is located at one of the locations identified in Schedule 5.18 (as
updated from time to time in accordance with Section 6.13); and
(iv)
the Used Vehicle is held for sale in the ordinary course of a Used Vehicle Borrower’s business and is of good and
merchantable quality.
The Company, by including a Used Vehicle in any computation of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base or the Revolving Borrowing
Base, shall be deemed to represent and warrant to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders that (1) such Vehicle satisfies each of the
requirements set forth in (i) through (iv) above and (2) such Vehicle is not a Demonstrator, Rental Vehicle or other mileaged New Vehicle, or
any other New Vehicle. If the Administrative Agent or the Required Lenders have reasonable grounds to believe that a Used Vehicle does not
satisfy any of clauses (i) through (iv) above or the foregoing clause (2), the Administrative Agent shall inform the Company of the grounds for
such belief and shall request confirmation by the Company of the eligibility of such Used Vehicle. Prior to confirmation of the eligibility
thereof by the Company, such Used Vehicle shall not be considered Eligible Used Vehicle Inventory and no representation and warranty shall
have been deemed made with respect thereto.
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“Environmental Laws” means any and all Federal, state, local, and foreign statutes, laws, regulations, ordinances, rules, judgments,
orders, decrees, permits, concessions, grants, franchises, licenses, agreements or governmental restrictions relating to pollution and the
protection of the environment or the release of any materials into the environment, including those related to hazardous substances or wastes,
air emissions and discharges to waste or public systems.
“Environmental Liability” means any liability, contingent or otherwise (including any liability for damages, costs of environmental
remediation, fines, penalties or indemnities), of the Company, any other Loan Party or any of their respective Subsidiaries directly or indirectly
resulting from or based upon (a) violation of any Environmental Law, (b) the generation, use, handling, transportation, storage, treatment or
disposal of any Hazardous Materials, (c) exposure to any Hazardous Materials, (d) the release or threatened release of any Hazardous Materials
into the environment or (e) any contract, agreement or other consensual arrangement pursuant to which liability is assumed or imposed with
respect to any of the foregoing.
“Equipment” has the meaning given such term in Section 9-102 of the UCC.
“Equity Interests” means, with respect to any Person, all of the shares of capital stock of (or other ownership or profit interests in) such
Person, all of the warrants, options or other rights for the purchase or acquisition from such Person of shares of capital stock of (or other
ownership or profit interests in) such Person, all of the securities convertible into or exchangeable for shares of capital stock of (or other
ownership or profit interests in) such Person or warrants, rights or options for the purchase or acquisition from such Person of such shares (or
such other interests), and all of the other ownership or profit interests in such Person (including partnership, member or trust interests therein),
whether voting or nonvoting, and whether or not such shares, warrants, options, rights or other interests are outstanding on any date of
determination.
“ERISA” means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated
thereunder.
“ERISA Affiliate” means any trade or business (whether or not incorporated) under common control with the Company within the
meaning of Section 414(b) or (c) of the Code (and Sections 414(m) and (o) of the Code for purposes of provisions relating to Section 412 of the
Code).
“ERISA Event” means (a) a Reportable Event with respect to a Pension Plan; (b) the withdrawal of the Company or any ERISA
Affiliate from a Pension Plan subject to Section 4063 of ERISA during a plan year in which such entity was a “substantial employer” as defined
in Section 4001(a)(2) of ERISA or a cessation of operations that is treated as such a withdrawal under Section 4062(e) of ERISA; (c) a
complete or partial withdrawal by the Company or any ERISA Affiliate from a Multiemployer Plan or notification that a Multiemployer Plan is
in reorganization; (d) the filing of a notice of intent to terminate, the treatment of a Pension Plan amendment as a termination under Section
4041 or 4041A of ERISA; (e) the institution by the PBGC of proceedings to terminate a Pension Plan; (f) any event or condition which
constitutes grounds under Section 4042 of ERISA for the termination of, or the appointment of a trustee to administer, any Pension Plan; (g) the
determination that any Pension Plan is considered an at-risk plan or a plan in endangered or critical status within the meaning of Sections 430,
431 and 432 of the Code or Sections 303, 304 and 305 of ERISA; or (h) the imposition of any liability under Title IV of ERISA, other than for
PBGC premiums due but not delinquent under Section 4007 of ERISA, upon the Company or any ERISA Affiliate.
28
“Escrow and Security Agreement” means that certain Fourth Amended and Restated Escrow and Security Agreement dated as of the
Closing Date made by the Company and certain Loan Parties in favor of the Administrative Agent for the benefit of the Secured Parties,
substantially in the form of Exhibit I attached hereto, as supplemented from time to time by the execution and delivery of Joinder Agreements
pursuant to Section 6.14, and as otherwise supplemented, amended, or modified from time to time.
“EU Bail-In Legislation Schedule” means the EU Bail-In Legislation Schedule published by the Loan Market Association (or any
successor person), as in effect from time to time.
“Event of Default” means either a Revolving/Used Vehicle Event of Default or a New Vehicle Event of Default.
“Excluded Property” means collectively: (a) any of the following, to the extent (but only to the extent) that any Franchise Agreement or
Framework Agreement prohibits the granting of a security interest in such property: any Equity Interests of any Subsidiary owning (directly or
indirectly) and/or operating a Franchise, the proceeds from the sale of any Franchise Agreement or Framework Agreement or any Equity
Interests of any Subsidiary, any Framework Agreements, Franchise Agreements or other contracts or agreements with a manufacturer or
distributor of Vehicles relating to the ownership or operation of any Franchise, any contract rights or other privileges (including, without
limitation, any licenses) arising pursuant to any Framework Agreement, Franchise Agreement or other such agreement and any other assets
(other than Vehicles, Borrowing Base Assets and proceeds of Vehicles and Borrowing Base Assets); (b) any contract, license, lease or
agreement (other than any contract that is Excluded Property pursuant to clause (a) above) in which any Loan Party has any right, title or
interest if and to the extent such contract or agreement contains a or is subject to a contractual provision or other restriction on assignment; (c)
any “intent-to-use” trademark applications filed in the United States Patent and Trademark Office for which a statement of use has not been
filed (but only until such statement is filed); provided, however, that “Excluded Property” shall not include any common law rights with respect
to any Trademark described in or subject to such “intent to use” application; and (d) any real property, fixtures, related real property rights,
related contracts and proceeds of the foregoing (including, without limitation, insurance proceeds in respect of the foregoing);
provided that any of the foregoing exclusions in clause (a) or (b) shall not apply if (x) such prohibition has been waived or such other Person
has otherwise consented to the creation hereunder of a security interest in such agreement, or (y) such prohibition would be rendered ineffective
pursuant to Section 9-406, 9-407 or 9-408 of Article 9 of the UCC, as applicable and as then in effect in any relevant jurisdiction, or any other
applicable law or principles of equity; and
provided further that immediately upon the ineffectiveness, lapse or termination of any such prohibition, such Loan Party shall be deemed to
have granted a security interest in all its rights, title and interests in and to such contract or agreement.
“Excluded Swap Obligation” means, with respect to any Loan Party, any Swap Obligation if, and to the extent that, all or a portion of
the Guarantee of such Loan Party of, the joint and several liability of such Loan Party for, or the grant by such Loan Party of a security interest
to secure, such Swap Obligation (or any Guarantee thereof or joint and several liability therefor) is or becomes illegal under the Commodity
Exchange Act or any rule, regulation or order of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (or the application or official interpretation of
any thereof) by virtue of such Loan Party’s failure for any reason to constitute an “eligible contract participant” as defined in the Commodity
Exchange Act (determined after giving effect to Section 10.20 and any other “keepwell, support or other
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agreement” for the benefit of such Loan Party and any and all guarantees of such Loan Party’s Swap Obligations by other Loan Parties) at the
time the Guarantee of such Loan Party, the joint and several liability of such Loan Party or a grant by such Loan Party of a security interest,
becomes effective with respect to such Swap Obligation. If a Swap Obligation arises under a master agreement governing more than one swap,
such exclusion shall apply only to the portion of such Swap Obligation that is attributable to swaps for which such Guarantee or security
interest is or becomes excluded in accordance with the first sentence of this definition. The parties hereto agree that if any Loan Party has
granted a Lien on any Collateral of such Loan Party pursuant to any Security Instrument, the obligations secured by such Lien shall exclude any
Excluded Swap Obligation with respect to such Loan Party, and such Security Instrument is hereby deemed amended to effect such exclusion.
“Excluded Taxes” means any of the following Taxes imposed on or with respect to any Recipient or required to be withheld or
deducted from a payment to a Recipient, (a) Taxes imposed on or measured by net income (however denominated), franchise Taxes, and branch
profits Taxes, in each case, (i) imposed as a result of such Recipient being organized under the laws of, or having its principal office or, in the
case of any Lender, its Lending Office located in, the jurisdiction imposing such Tax (or any political subdivision thereof) or (ii) that are Other
Connection Taxes, (b) in the case of a Lender, U.S. federal withholding Taxes imposed on amounts payable to or for the account of such Lender
with respect to an applicable interest in a Loan or Commitment pursuant to a law in effect on the date on which (i) such Lender acquires such
interest in the Loan or Commitment (other than pursuant to an assignment request by the Company under Section 10.13) or (ii) such Lender
changes its Lending Office, except in each case to the extent that, pursuant to Section 3.01(a)(ii) or (iii) or (c), amounts with respect to such
Taxes were payable either to such Lender's assignor immediately before such Lender became a party hereto or to such Lender immediately
before it changed its Lending Office, (c) Taxes attributable to such Recipient’s failure to comply with Section 3.01(e) and (d) any U.S. federal
withholding Taxes imposed pursuant to FATCA.
“Existing Credit Agreement” has the meaning given such term in the recitals hereto.
“Existing Letters of Credit” means those Letters of Credit described on Schedule 2.03B.
“Extending Lender” has the meaning specified in Section 2.23(e).
“Existing Maturity Date” means the Maturity Date then in effect hereunder.
“Facilities” means, collectively, the Revolving Credit Facility, the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility and the Used Vehicle Floorplan
Facility.
“FASB ASC” means the Accounting Standards Codification of the Financial Accounting Standards Board.
“FATCA” means Sections 1471 through 1474 of the Code, as of the date of this Agreement (or any amended or successor version that
is substantively comparable and not materially more onerous to comply with), any current or future regulations or official interpretations
thereof, any agreements entered into pursuant to Section 1471(b)(1) of the Code and any fiscal or regulatory legislation, rules or practices
adopted pursuant to any intergovernmental agreement, treaty or convention among Governmental Authorities entered into in connection with
the implementation of the foregoing.
“Federal Funds Rate” means, for any day, the rate per annum calculated by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York based on such day’s
federal funds transactions by depository institutions (as
30
determined in such manner as the Federal Reserve Bank of New York shall set forth on its public website from time to time) and published on
the next succeeding Business Day by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York as the federal funds effective rate; provided that if the Federal
Funds Rate as so determined would be less than zero, such rate shall be deemed to be zero for purposes of this Agreement.
“Fee Letters” means, individually and collectively, (i) the Bank of America Fee Letter and (ii) each letter agreement entered into among
the Company, the Administrative Agent and each applicable Lender regarding facility fees owing under the Credit Facilities.
“Fleet Vehicle” means one of a group of New Vehicles sold to a Person (e.g., a rental car agency) which purchases in excess of ten (10)
Vehicles per purchase contract for commercial use.
“Floored New Vehicle” means, as of any date, any New Vehicle that is (a) owned by a New Vehicle Borrower on such date and (b) for
which any New Vehicle Floorplan Lender has made a New Vehicle Non-Offset Floorplan Loan on or prior to such date.
“Floorplan Commitment” means, as to each Lender, the New Vehicle Floorplan Commitment and Used Vehicle Floorplan
Commitment, collectively, of such Lender.
“Floorplan Facility” means, collectively or individually, as the context may require, the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility or the Used
Vehicle Floorplan Facility.
“Floorplan Loan” means any New Vehicle Floorplan Loan or any Used Vehicle Floorplan Loan.
“Floorplan Interest Offset” means, at any time, the amount that is credited to the New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account at such time,
after giving effect to Section 2.09(b)(ii) and excluding any Loan Repayments From Offset.
“Floorplan Offset Amount” means, at any time, the amount that is credited to the New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account at such time
without giving effect to Loan Repayments From Offset.
“Floorplan On-line System” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.09(a).
“FMCC” means Ford Motor Credit Company, or any successor in interest to Ford Motor Credit Company.
“FMCC Collateral” means, to the extent a security interest in and to the following items of property have been granted to FMCC, (A)
any item of Ford or Lincoln New Vehicle inventory if such inventory was originally acquired by any Ford or Lincoln Franchise (whether
directly from a manufacturer, through dealer trade or at auction) set forth on the applicable exhibit to the FMCC Intercreditor Agreement
(which Exhibit shall be considered the “FMCC Exhibit” and may be supplemented or amended from time to time in accordance with the terms
of the FMCC Intercreditor Agreement) and FMCC is a party to a loan facility to provide inventory financing of Ford or Lincoln New Vehicle
inventory on a VIN-specific basis to such Ford or Lincoln Franchise, (B) all accounts, instruments, monies, payment intangibles and other
rights to payment (and all items in which FMCC may exercise a right of setoff or recoupment at law or in equity) which are owed by any
Person to a Ford or Lincoln Franchise (or to the dealership Subsidiary that owns such Ford or Lincoln Franchise and which relate to such Ford
or Lincoln Franchise) set forth on the FMCC Exhibit, (C) any inventory of repair, replacement or service parts of any Ford or Lincoln Franchise
set forth on the FMCC Exhibit, (D) general intangibles of any Ford or Lincoln Franchise set forth on the FMCC Exhibit (including, without
31
limitation, franchise rights of such Ford or Lincoln Franchise to the extent such Ford or Lincoln Franchise shall have granted a security interest
therein to FMCC, but excluding any equity or other ownership interests in any direct or indirect Subsidiary of the Company), and (E) any
proceeds of the foregoing.
“FMCC Intercreditor Agreement” means an intercreditor agreement, including any such agreement entered into after December 4,
2014, between FMCC and the Administrative Agent with respect to FMCC Collateral and is otherwise acceptable to the Administrative Agent.
“Foreign Lender” means any Lender that is organized under the Laws of a jurisdiction other than that in which the Company is resident
for tax purposes (including such a Lender when acting in the capacity of an L/C Issuer). For purposes of this definition, the United States, each
State thereof and the District of Columbia shall be deemed to constitute a single jurisdiction.
“Foreign Subsidiary” means (i) any Subsidiary not organized under the laws of the United States, any state thereof, or the District of
Columbia, (ii) any Subsidiary of an entity described in the preceding clause (i), (iii) any Subsidiary that is a disregarded entity for U.S. federal
income tax purposes that owns the capital stock or indebtedness of one or more Foreign Subsidiaries or (iv) a Subsidiary substantially all of the
assets of which are capital stock or indebtedness of one or more Foreign Subsidiaries.
“Framework Agreement” means a framework agreement, in each case between a Loan Party and a manufacturer or distributor of
Vehicles.
“FRB” means the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System of the United States.
“Franchise” means any division of a Subsidiary that holds (or the portion of the assets of such Subsidiary that constitutes) the assets of
a particular franchise for the sale of New Vehicles and/or Used Vehicles. A Subsidiary may own and operate one or more than one Franchise.
(By way of example, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Asbury Automotive St. Louis, L.L.C. is a Subsidiary that, as of the
date hereof, owns a BMW Franchise and an Infiniti Franchise, among others.)
“Franchise Agreement” means any dealer franchise agreement, dealer sales and service agreement or similar agreement.
“Fronting Exposure” means, at any time there is a Defaulting Lender, (a) with respect to an L/C Issuer, such Defaulting Lender’s
Applicable Percentage of the outstanding L/C Obligations with respect to Letters of Credit issued by such L/C Issuer other than L/C
Obligations as to which such Defaulting Lender’s participation obligation has been reallocated to other Lenders or Cash Collateralized in
accordance with the terms hereof, and (b) with respect to the Swing Line Lender, such Defaulting Lender’s Applicable Percentage of Swing
Line Loans other than Swing Line Loans as to which such Defaulting Lender’s participation obligation has been reallocated to other Lenders or
Cash Collateralized in accordance with the terms hereof.
“Fund” means any Person (other than a natural Person) that is (or will be) engaged in making, purchasing, holding or otherwise
investing in commercial loans and similar extensions of credit in the ordinary course of its activities.
“GAAP” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the
Accounting Principles Board and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and statements and pronouncements of the Financial
Accounting Standards Board or such other principles as may be approved by a significant segment of the accounting profession in the
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United States, that are applicable to the circumstances as of the date of determination, consistently applied.
“Governmental Authority” means the government of the United States or any other nation, or of any political subdivision thereof,
whether state or local, and any agency, authority, instrumentality, regulatory body, court, central bank or other entity exercising executive,
legislative, judicial, taxing, regulatory or administrative powers or functions of or pertaining to government (including any supra-national
bodies such as the European Union or the European Central Bank).
“Guarantee” means, as to any Person, (a) any obligation, contingent or otherwise, of such Person guaranteeing or having the economic
effect of guaranteeing any Indebtedness (the “primary obligations”) payable or performable by another Person (the “primary obligor”) in any
manner, whether directly or indirectly, and including any obligation of such Person, direct or indirect, (i) to purchase or pay (or advance or
supply funds for the purchase or payment of) such primary obligations, (ii) to purchase or lease property, securities or services for the purpose
of assuring the obligee in respect of such primary obligations of the payment or performance of such primary obligations, (iii) to maintain
working capital, equity capital or any other financial statement condition or liquidity or level of income or cash flow of the primary obligor so
as to enable the primary obligor to pay such primary obligations, or (iv) entered into for the purpose of assuring in any other manner the obligee
in respect of such primary obligations of the payment or performance thereof or to protect such obligee against loss in respect thereof (in whole
or in part), or (b) any Lien on any assets of such Person securing any primary obligations of any primary obligor, whether or not such primary
obligation is assumed by such Person (or any right, contingent or otherwise, of any holder of such primary obligation to obtain any such Lien).
The amount of any Guarantee (other than a Guarantee of the type described in clause (b) above) shall be deemed to be an amount equal to the
stated or determinable amount of the related primary obligation, or portion thereof, in respect of which such Guarantee is made or, if not stated
or determinable, the maximum reasonably anticipated liability in respect thereof as reasonably determined by the guaranteeing Person in good
faith. The amount of any Guarantee of the type described in clause (b) above shall be deemed to be an amount equal to the lesser of (x) the fair
market value of the property subject to such Lien and (y) the stated or determinable amount of the related primary obligation, or portion
thereof, in respect of which such Guarantee is made or, if not stated or determinable, the maximum reasonably anticipated liability in respect
thereof as determined by the guaranteeing Person in good faith. The term “Guarantee” as a verb has a corresponding meaning. The term
“Guarantee” shall not include endorsements of instruments for deposit or collection in the ordinary course of business.
“Guaranties” means, collectively, the Company Guaranty and the Subsidiary Guaranty.
“Guarantors” means, collectively, (a) the Company, (b) the Subsidiary Guarantors, and (c) with respect to (i) Obligations owing by any
Loan Party or any Subsidiary of a Loan Party under any Swap Contract or any Cash Management Agreement and (ii) the payment and
performance by each Specified Loan Party of its obligations under its Guarantee with respect to all Swap Obligations, each Borrower.
“Hazardous Materials” means all explosive or radioactive substances or wastes and all hazardous or toxic substances, wastes or other
pollutants, including petroleum or petroleum distillates, asbestos or asbestos-containing materials, polychlorinated biphenyls, radon gas,
infectious or medical wastes and all other substances or wastes of any nature regulated pursuant to any Environmental Law.
“Hedge Bank” means any Person that, (a) at the time it enters into a Swap Contract not prohibited under Article VI or VII, is a Lender
or an Affiliate of a Lender, or (b) at the time it (or its Affiliate)
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becomes a Lender, is a party to a Swap Contract not prohibited under Article VI or VII, in each case, in its capacity as a party to such Swap
Contract.
“Increase Effective Date” has the meaning specified in Section 2.22(d).
“Immaterial Subsidiary” means each direct or indirect Subsidiary of the Company that either (a) has total assets (including Equity
Interests in other Persons) of less than 2.5% of the total assets of the Company and its Subsidiaries (calculated as of the most recent fiscal
period with respect to which the Administrative Agent shall have received financial statements required to be delivered pursuant to Sections
6.01(a) or (b) (or if prior to delivery of any financial statements pursuant to such Sections, then calculated based on the Audited Financial
Statements) or (b) contributes less than 2.5% to Consolidated EBITDA (calculated as of the most recent fiscal period with respect to which the
Administrative Agent shall have received financial statements required to be delivered pursuant to Sections 6.01(a) or (b) (or if prior to delivery
of any financial statements pursuant to such Sections, then calculated based on the Audited Financial Statements); provided that, in the event
that either (x) the total assets of all Immaterial Subsidiaries equals or exceed 5% of the total assets of the Company and its Subsidiaries
(calculated as of the most recent fiscal period with respect to which the Administrative Agent shall have received financial statements required
to be delivered pursuant to Sections 6.01(a) or (b) (or if prior to delivery of any financial statements pursuant to such Sections, then calculated
based on the Audited Financial Statements) or (y) the total contribution of all Immaterial Subsidiaries to Consolidated EBITDA exceeds 5% of
Consolidated EBITDA (calculated as of the most recent fiscal period with respect to which the Administrative Agent shall have received
financial statements required to be delivered pursuant to Sections 6.01(a) or (b) (or if prior to delivery of any financial statements pursuant to
such Sections, then calculated based on the Audited Financial Statements), as the case may be, the Company will designate Subsidiaries which
would otherwise constitute Immaterial Subsidiaries to be excluded from qualifying as Immaterial Subsidiaries until the total assets and total
contribution to Consolidated EBITDA of all Subsidiaries constituting Immaterial Subsidiaries are, in each case, less than or equal to such 5%
thresholds; provided further that, so long as a Subsidiary is designated as a “Borrower” or “Subsidiary Guarantor” under the Loan Documents,
such Subsidiary shall not constitute an “Immaterial Subsidiary”.
“Impacted Loans” has the meaning specified in Section 3.03(a).
“Indebtedness” means, as to any Person at a particular time, without duplication, all of the following, whether or not included as
indebtedness or liabilities in accordance with GAAP:
(a)
all obligations of such Person for borrowed money and all obligations of such Person evidenced by bonds, debentures, notes,
loan agreements or other similar instruments;
(b)
all direct or contingent obligations of such Person arising under letters of credit (including standby and commercial), bankers’
acceptances, bank guaranties, surety bonds and similar instruments;
(c)
net obligations of such Person under any Swap Contract;
(d)
all obligations of such Person to pay the deferred purchase price of property or services (other than trade accounts payable in
the ordinary course of business and, in each case, not past due for more than (i) 90 days after the original specified due date thereof, or (ii) if
such trade account payable has no specified due date, 120 days after the date on which such trade account payable was created);
(e)
indebtedness (excluding prepaid interest thereon) secured by a Lien on property owned or being purchased by such Person
(including indebtedness arising under conditional sales or other title
34
retention agreements), whether or not such indebtedness shall have been assumed by such Person or is limited in recourse;
(f)
capital leases, finance leases and Synthetic Lease Obligations;
(g)
all Disqualified Stock; and
(h)
all Guarantees of such Person in respect of any of the foregoing.
For all purposes hereof, the Indebtedness of any Person shall include the Indebtedness of any partnership or joint venture (other than a
joint venture that is itself a corporation or limited liability company) in which such Person is a general partner or a joint venturer, unless such
Indebtedness is expressly made non-recourse to such Person. The amount of any net obligation under any Swap Contract on any date shall be
deemed to be the Swap Termination Value thereof as of such date. The amount of any capital lease, finance lease or Synthetic Lease Obligation
as of any date shall be deemed to be the amount of Attributable Indebtedness in respect thereof as of such date. The amount of Indebtedness of
the type described in clause (e) above to the extent the recourse for such Indebtedness is limited to recourse against the property subject to the
Lien described in clause (e) shall be deemed to be an amount equal to the lesser of (x) the fair market value of the property subject to such Lien
and (y) the outstanding amount if indebtedness secured by such Lien. The term “Indebtedness” shall not include (x) customer deposits and
interest payable thereon in the ordinary course of business or (y) indebtedness to the extent that it has been defeased or satisfied and discharged
in accordance with the terms of the documents governing such indebtedness; provided that (i) to the extent the deposit of assets with the
applicable holders (or trustee on behalf of such holders) is required in connection with the defeasance or satisfaction and discharge of such
indebtedness, such assets are limited to cash and cash equivalents and (ii) none of the assets associated with such defeasance, or any income
earned on such assets, shall be included in the calculation of any financial covenant or ratio or incurrence test hereunder, any borrowing base
hereunder or the Prepayment Test Amount.
“Indemnified Taxes” means (a) Taxes, other than Excluded Taxes, imposed on or with respect to any payment made by or on account
of any obligation of any Loan Party under any Loan Document and (b) to the extent not otherwise described in (a), Other Taxes.
“Indemnitees” has the meaning specified in Section 10.04(b).
“Indentures” means (i) that certain Indenture, dated as of February 19, 2020 (as amended, supplemented and otherwise modified prior
to the date hereof, and as further amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time to the extent permitted hereunder), governing
the 4.50% Senior Notes due 2028 of the Company, (ii) that certain Indenture, dated as of February 19, 2020 (as amended, supplemented and
otherwise modified prior to the date hereof, and as further amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time to the extent
permitted hereunder), governing the 4.75% Senior Notes due 2030 of the Company, (iii) that certain Indenture, dated as of November 19, 2021
(as amended, supplemented and otherwise modified prior to the date hereof, and as further amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from
time to time to the extent permitted hereunder), governing the 4.625% Senior Note due 2029 of the Company and (iv) that certain Indenture,
dated as of November 19, 2021 (as amended, supplemented and otherwise modified prior to the date hereof, and as further amended,
supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time to the extent permitted hereunder), governing the 5.000% Senior Note due 2032 of the
Company.
“Information” has the meaning specified in Section 10.07.
35
“Intangible Assets” means assets that are considered to be intangible assets under GAAP, including customer lists, goodwill, computer
software, copyrights, trade names, trademarks, patents, franchises, licenses, unamortized deferred charges, unamortized debt discount and
capitalized research and development costs.
“Interest Payment Date” means the Automatic Debit Date of each calendar month.
“Investment” means, as to any Person, any direct or indirect acquisition or investment by such Person, whether by means of (a) the
purchase or other acquisition of capital stock or other securities of another Person, (b) a loan, advance or capital contribution to, Guarantee or
assumption of debt of, or purchase or other acquisition of any other debt or equity participation or interest in, another Person, including any
partnership or joint venture interest in such other Person and any arrangement pursuant to which the investor Guarantees Indebtedness of such
other Person, or (c) the purchase or other acquisition (in one transaction or a series of transactions) of assets of another Person that constitute a
business unit. For purposes of covenant compliance, the amount of any Investment shall be the amount actually invested less any principal
repayments or return of capital actually received in cash from such Investment.
“IRS” means the United States Internal Revenue Service.
“ISP” means the International Standby Practices, International Chamber of Commerce Publication No. 590 (or such later version
thereof as may be in effect at the applicable time).
“Issuer Documents” means with respect to any Letter of Credit, the Letter of Credit Application, and any other document, agreement
and instrument entered into by the respective L/C Issuer and the Company (or any Subsidiary) or in favor of such L/C Issuer and relating to
such Letter of Credit.
“Joinder Agreement” means each Joinder Agreement, substantially in the form of Exhibit H, executed and delivered by a Subsidiary or
any other Person to the Administrative Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties, pursuant to Section 6.14.
“Koons Acquisition” means the acquisition by the Company and/or its Subsidiaries of dealership assets, real estate and real estate
related rights and other assets of the Koons Dealership Companies, the Koons Real Estate Companies and the Koons Management Company
(as defined in the definition of Koons Purchase Agreement) pursuant to the Koons Purchase Agreement, without giving effect to any
modifications, amendments, consents or waivers thereto that are material and adverse to the interests of the Lenders, as reasonably determined
by the Administrative Agent, without the prior consent of the Administrative Agent (not to be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned).
“Koons Acquisition Documents” means the Koons Purchase Agreement and all documents, agreements, certificates and instruments
executed in connection therewith.
“Koons Acquisition Indebtedness” means Indebtedness incurred by the Company or any of its Subsidiaries (which may include
Indebtedness incurred hereunder), the proceeds of which will be used to consummate the transactions contemplated by the Koons Acquisition
Documents.
“Koons Dealership Company” means each of the following as defined in the definition of Koons Purchase Agreement: Koons Ford,
Koons Ford of Baltimore, Koons Sterling Ford, Koons of Annapolis Toyota, Volvo Cars White Marsh, Koons Chevrolet, Koons Westminster
Toyota, Koons Tysons Corner, Koons Tysons Toyota, Koons Arlington Toyota, Koons Collision Repair Center, Koons Easton Toyota, Koons
Lexus of Wilmington, Koons Kia and Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz of Catonsville, Koons of
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Clarksville, Koons Buick GMC Woodbridge, Koons KIA of Owings Mills and Koons Woodbridge Ford, as the case may be, and collectively,
they are the “Koons Dealership Companies”.
“Koons Purchase Agreement” means that certain Purchase and Sale Agreement dated as of September 7, 2023 by and among the
Company, as Buyer, Koons Ford, Inc., a Virginia corporation (“Koons Ford”), Koons Ford of Baltimore, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“Koons
Ford of Baltimore”), Herndon Motor Co., Inc., a Virginia corporation (“Koons Sterling Ford”), Koons of Annapolis, Inc., a Maryland
corporation (“Koons of Annapolis Toyota”), Koons of Owings Mills, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“Volvo Cars White Marsh”), Koons
Chevrolet, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“Koons Chevrolet”), Koons of Westminster, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“Koons Westminster
Toyota”), Koons of Tysons Corner, Inc., a Virginia corporation (“Koons Tysons Corner”), Kline Tysons Imports, Inc., a Virginia corporation
(“Koons Tysons Toyota”), Kline Imports Arlington, Inc., a Virginia corporation (“Koons Arlington Toyota”), Kline Collision Repair Center,
Inc., a Virginia corporation (“Koons Collision Repair Center”), Koons of Easton, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“Koons Easton Toyota”), Koons
of Wilmington, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Koons Lexus of Wilmington”), Koons of Woodbridge, Inc., a Virginia corporation (“Koons Kia
and Hyundai”), Koons of Catonsville, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“Mercedes-Benz of Catonsville”), Koons of Clarksville, Inc., a Maryland
corporation (“Koons of Clarksville”), Koons Buick GMC Woodbridge, Inc., a Virginia corporation (“Koons Buick GMC Woodbridge”), Koons
of Reisterstown Road, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“Koons KIA of Owings Mills”), Koons Woodbridge Ford, Inc., a Virginia corporation
(“Koons Woodbridge Ford”), Jim Koons Management Company, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“Management Company”), Koons Real
Properties, LLC, a Maryland limited liability company (“Koons Real Properties”), Koons of Annapolis LLC, a Maryland limited liability
company (“Annapolis Property Company”), Koons Baltimore Properties, LLC, a Maryland limited liability company (“Baltimore Property
Company”), Koons Rolling Roads Properties LLC, a Maryland limited liability company (“Rolling Roads Property Company”), Koons
Alexandria Properties, LLC, a Virginia limited liability company (“Alexandria Property Company”), Koons Easton Properties, LLC, a
Maryland limited liability company (“Easton Property Company”), Koons Falls Church Properties, LLC, a Virginia limited liability company
(“Falls Church Property Company”), Koons Hillwood Woodbridge Properties, LLC, a Maryland limited liability company (“Hillwood
Woodbridge Property Company”), 9610 Reisterstown Road LLC, a Maryland limited liability company (“Reisterstown Property Company”),
Koons Noblewood Properties, LLC, a Virginia limited liability company (“Noblewood Property Company”), Crown Real Properties, LLC, a
Virginia limited liability company (“Crown Property Company”), Koons Wilmington Properties, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company
(“Wilmington Property Company”), Koons Catonsville Properties, LLC, a Maryland limited liability company (“Catonsville Property
Company”), Koons Clarksville Properties, LLC, a Maryland limited liability company (“Clarksville Property Company”), Crown Tysons
Properties, LLC, a Virginia limited liability company (“Crown Tysons Property Company”), Koons Tysons Properties, LLC, a Virginia limited
liability company (“Koons Tysons Property Company”), Koons Legacy Properties, LLC, a Maryland limited liability company (“Koons Legacy
Property Company”), Koons Nottingham Properties, LLC, a Maryland limited liability company (“Nottingham Property Company”), Koons
Opitz Properties, LLC, a Virginia limited liability company (“Opitz Property Company”), Koons Route 1 Properties, LLC, a Virginia limited
liability company (“Route 1 Property Company”), Koons Westminster Properties, LLC, a Maryland limited liability company (“Westminster
Property Company”) and Koons Plaza Development Co., a Virginia general partnership (“Koons Plaza”), as such document was posted with the
Securities and Exchange Commission by the Company in its 8-K dated September 8, 2023.
“Koons Real Estate Company” means each of the following as defined in the definition of Koons Purchase Agreement: Koons Real
Properties, Annapolis Property Company, Baltimore Property
37
Company, Rolling Roads Property Company, Alexandria Property Company, Easton Property Company, Falls Church Property Company,
Hillwood Woodbridge Property Company, Reisterstown Property Company, Noblewood Property Company, Crown Property Company,
Wilmington Property Company, Catonsville Property Company, Clarksville Property Company, Crown Tysons Property Company, Koons
Tysons Property Company, Koons Legacy Property Company, Nottingham Property Company, Opitz Property Company, Route 1 Property
Company and Westminster Property Company, Koons of Annapolis Toyota, Koons of Clarksville, Koons Kia and Hyundai, Koons Buick GMC
Woodbridge, Koons Arlington Toyota, Koons Chevrolet, Management Company, Koons Tysons Corner, Koons Ford, and Koons Lexus of
Wilmington, as the case may be, and collectively, they are the “Koons Real Estate Companies”.
“Koons Restricted Subsidiaries” has the meaning specified in Section 4.02(i)(i).
“Koons Sellers” means the Koons Management Company, the Koons Dealership Companies, and the Koons Real Estate Companies.
“Landlord Waiver” means, as to any leasehold interest of a Loan Party, a landlord waiver and consent agreement executed by the
landlord of such leasehold interest, in each case in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent.
“Laws” means, collectively, all international, foreign, Federal, state and local statutes, treaties, rules, guidelines, regulations,
ordinances, codes and administrative or judicial precedents or authorities, including the interpretation or administration thereof by any
Governmental Authority charged with the enforcement, interpretation or administration thereof, and all applicable administrative orders,
directed duties, requests, licenses, authorizations and permits of, and agreements with, any Governmental Authority, in each case whether or
not having the force of law.
“L/C Advance” means, with respect to each Lender, such Lender’s funding of its participation in any L/C Borrowing in accordance
with its Applicable Percentage.
“L/C Borrowing” means an extension of credit resulting from a drawing under any Letter of Credit which has not been reimbursed on
the date when made or refinanced as a Committed Borrowing.
“L/C Commitment” means, with respect to each L/C Issuer, the commitment of such L/C Issuer to issue Letters of Credit hereunder.
The initial amount of each L/C Issuer’s Letter of Credit Commitment is set forth on Schedule 2.03A, or if an L/C Issuer has entered into an
Assignment and Assumption or has otherwise assumed a Letter of Credit Commitment after the Closing Date, the amount set forth for such L/C
Issuer as its Letter of Credit Commitment in the Register maintained by the Administrative Agent. The Letter of Credit Commitment of an L/C
Issuer may be modified from time to time by agreement between such L/C Issuer and the Company, and notified to the Administrative Agent.
“L/C Credit Extension” means, with respect to any Letter of Credit, the issuance thereof or extension of the expiry date thereof, or the
increase of the amount thereof.
“L/C Disbursement” means a payment made by an L/C Issuer pursuant to a Letter of Credit.
“L/C Issuer” means (a) Bank of America in its capacity as an issuer of Letters of Credit hereunder, or any successor to Bank of
America in its capacity as an issuer of Letters of Credit hereunder and (b) not more than one additional Lender, selected by the Company and
reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent, which consents to its appointment by the Company as an issuer of Letters of Credit
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hereunder and becomes an L/C Issuer hereunder pursuant to a joinder agreement in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the
Administrative Agent and its counsel, in such Lender’s capacity as an issuer of Letters of Credit hereunder or any successor to such Lender in
its capacity as an issuer of Letters of Credit hereunder. Any L/C Issuer may, in its discretion, arrange for one or more Letters of Credit to be
issued by Affiliates of such L/C Issuer, in which case the term “L/C Issuer” shall include any such Affiliate with respect to Letters of Credit
issued by such Affiliate. All singular references to the L/C Issuer shall mean any L/C Issuer, the L/C Issuer that has issued the applicable Letter
of Credit or all L/C Issuers, as the context may require.
“L/C Obligations” means, as at any date of determination, the aggregate amount available to be drawn under all outstanding Letters of
Credit at such time, including any automatic or scheduled increases provided for by the terms of such Letters of Credit, determined without
regard to whether any conditions to drawing could be met at that time plus the aggregate amount of all Unreimbursed Amounts, including all
L/C Borrowings. The L/C Obligations of any Lender at any time shall be its Applicable Revolving Percentage of the total L/C Obligations at
such time. For all purposes of this Agreement, if on any date of determination a Letter of Credit has expired by its terms but any amount may
still be drawn thereunder by reason of the operation of Article 29(a) of the UCP or Rule 3.13 or Rule 3.14 of the ISP or similar terms of the
Letter of Credit itself, or if compliant documents have been presented but not yet honored, such Letter of Credit shall be deemed to be
“outstanding” and “undrawn” in the amount so remaining available to be paid, and the obligations of the Borrowers and each Lender shall
remain in full force and effect until the L/C Issuers and the Lenders shall have no further obligations to make any payments or disbursements
under any circumstances with respect to any Letter of Credit.
“Lender” has the meaning specified in the introductory paragraph hereto and, as the context requires, includes the Swing Line Lender.
“Lender Party” and “Lender Recipient Party” means collectively, the Lenders, the Swing Line Lenders and the L/C Issuers.
“Lending Office” means, as to any Lender, the office or offices of such Lender described as such in such Lender’s Administrative
Questionnaire, or such other office or offices as a Lender may from time to time notify the Company and the Administrative Agent, which
office may include any Affiliate of such Lender or any domestic or foreign branch of such Lender or such Affiliate. Unless the context
otherwise requires each reference to a Lender shall include its applicable Lending Office.
“Letter of Credit” means any standby letter of credit issued hereunder providing for the payment of cash upon the honoring of a
presentation thereunder and shall include the Existing Letters of Credit.
“Letter of Credit Application” means an application and agreement for the issuance or amendment of a Letter of Credit in the form
from time to time in use by the applicable L/C Issuer.
“Letter of Credit Expiration Date” means the day that is fifteen days prior to the Maturity Date then in effect (or, if such day is not a
Business Day, the next preceding Business Day).
“Letter of Credit Fee” has the meaning specified in Section 2.03(i).
“Letter of Credit Sublimit” means an amount equal to $50,000,000. The Letter of Credit Sublimit is part of, and not in addition to, the
Aggregate Revolving Commitments.
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“Lien” means any mortgage, pledge, hypothecation, assignment, deposit arrangement, encumbrance, lien (statutory or other), charge, or
preference, priority or other security interest or preferential arrangement in the nature of a security interest of any kind or nature whatsoever
(including any conditional sale or other title retention agreement, any easement, right of way or other encumbrance on title to real property, and
any financing lease having substantially the same economic effect as any of the foregoing).
“Limited Condition Acquisition” shall mean any Acquisition that (a) is not prohibited hereunder, (b) is financed in whole or in part
with a substantially concurrent incurrence of Indebtedness, and (c) is not conditioned on the availability of, or on obtaining, third-party
financing.
“Loan” means a Revolving Loan, a New Vehicle Floorplan Loan or a Used Vehicle Floorplan Loan, as the context may require.
“Loan Documents” means this Agreement, including schedules and exhibits hereto, each Note, each Issuer Document, each Security
Instrument, the Guaranties, any agreement creating or perfecting rights in Cash Collateral pursuant to the provisions of Section 2.26 of this
Agreement, each Fee Letter, any Autoborrow Agreement, and any amendments, modifications or supplements hereto or to any other Loan
Document or waivers hereof or to any other Loan Document.
“Loan Parties” means, collectively, the Company, each Vehicle Borrower, each Guarantor, and each Person (other than the
Administrative Agent, any Lender or any landlord executing a Landlord Waiver) executing a Security Instrument.
“Loan Repayments From Offset” means amounts actually distributed by the Administrative Agent to Lenders pursuant to Section
2.09(b)(ii) to repay Committed Loans.
“Loan Year” means each 12 month period commencing on (but excluding) the Closing Date (or an Anniversary Date) and ending on
(and including) the next succeeding Anniversary Date.
“Manufacturer” means the manufacturer of, or a manufacturer-appointed wholesale distributor of, Inventory.
“Material Acquisition” means any Acquisition by the Company or any Subsidiary that (a) has a Cost of Acquisition greater than
$100,000,000, or (b) the Company has determined (in its sole discretion) to constitute a Material Acquisition.
“Material Adverse Effect” means (a) a material adverse change in, or a material adverse effect upon, the operations, business,
properties, liabilities (actual or contingent), or financial condition of the Company and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole; (b) a material
impairment of the rights and remedies of the Administrative Agent or any Lender under any Loan Document, or of ability of the Loan Parties
taken as a whole to perform their respective obligations under the respective Loan Documents to which any of them is a party; or (c) a material
adverse effect upon the legality, validity, binding effect or enforceability against the Loan Parties taken as a whole of the Loan Documents.
“Material Disposition” means any Disposition by the Company or any Subsidiary that (a) has Disposition Proceeds greater than
$75,000,000, (b) results in a decrease in the aggregate of the Revolving Borrowing Base or the Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base by
more than ten percent (10%), or (c) the Company has determined (in its sole discretion ) to constitute a Material Disposition.
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“Maturity Date” means the later of (a) October 20, 2028 and (b) if maturity is extended pursuant to Section 2.23, such extended
maturity date as determined pursuant to such Section, provided that the “Maturity Date” with respect to any Non-Extending Lender (including
with respect to the payment of Obligations owing to such Lender and the Availability Period for Loans by such Lender) shall be the latest date
that such Lender has consented to as its Maturity Date pursuant to Section 2.23 (or, if such Lender has not consented to any such extension, the
original Maturity Date as in effect on the Closing Date); provided further, however, that, in each case, if such date is not a Business Day, the
respective Maturity Date shall be the next preceding Business Day. Except as otherwise set forth in the first proviso to this definition,
references to the Maturity Date (including references to such term in the definitions of “Letter of Credit Expiration Date” and “Subordinated
Indebtedness” and Section 7.01(m)) shall mean the latest date that any Lender has consented to as its Maturity Date pursuant to Section 2.23
(or, if there has been no such extension, the original Maturity Date as in effect on the Closing Date).
“Moody’s” means Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. and any successor thereto.
“Multiemployer Plan” means any employee benefit plan of the type described in Section 4001(a)(3) of ERISA, to which the Company
or any ERISA Affiliate makes or is obligated to make contributions, or during the preceding five plan years, has made or been obligated to
make contributions.
“Multiple Employer Plan” means a Plan which has two or more contributing sponsors (including the Company or any ERISA Affiliate)
at least two of whom are not under common control, as such a plan is described in Section 4064 of ERISA.
“Net Book Value” means, (i) for any Eligible Account, the gross amount of such Eligible Account less (to the extent not otherwise
deducted in calculating such gross amount, and without duplication) sales, excise or similar taxes, and less returns, discounts, claims, credits,
allowances, accrued rebates, offsets, deductions, bad debts, reserves, counterclaims, disputes and other defenses of any nature at any time
issued, owing, granted, outstanding, available or claimed in respect of such Eligible Account, (ii) for any Eligible Parts and Accessories
Inventory, the lower of cost or market, net of reserves, (iii) for any Eligible Equipment, the then-current net book value (after deducting all
accumulated depreciation and amortization of such Eligible Equipment through the date of measurement) of such Eligible Equipment, (iv) for
any Eligible Contract-in-Transit, the then-current net book value of such Eligible Contract-in-Transit, (v) for any Eligible New Vehicle
Inventory, the then-current net book value of such Eligible New Vehicle Inventory, and (vi) for any Eligible Used Vehicle Inventory, (A) the
then-current net book value of such Eligible Used Vehicle Inventory minus (B) the then-current net book value of any associated Used Vehicle
Liens payable (other than Liens created by the Loan Documents), in each case, as reflected (as of the date of determination) on the books of the
Company and its Subsidiaries in accordance with GAAP.
“Net Cash Proceeds” means the aggregate cash or cash equivalents proceeds received by any Loan Party or any Subsidiary in respect of
any Disposition, any issuance of Equity Interests, Investment, Acquisition, or the incurrence or repayment of Indebtedness, net of (a) direct
costs incurred in connection therewith (including, without limitation, legal, accounting and investment banking fees, and sales commissions),
(b) taxes paid or payable as a result thereof and (c) in the case of any Disposition, the amount necessary to retire any Indebtedness secured by a
Permitted Lien (ranking senior to any Lien of the Administrative Agent) on the related property; it being understood that “Net Cash Proceeds”
shall include, without limitation, any cash or cash equivalents received upon the sale or other disposition of any non-cash consideration
received by any Loan Party or any Subsidiary in any Disposition, any issuance of Equity Interests, Investment, Acquisition, or the incurrence or
repayment of Indebtedness.
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“New Vehicle” means a Vehicle which has (x) never been owned except by a manufacturer, distributor or dealer and (y) except in the
case of a Vehicle which otherwise qualifies as a Demonstrator, Rental Vehicle or other mileaged Vehicle, has never been registered.
“New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement” shall have the meaning specified in Section 2.07(c).
“New Vehicle Borrower” has the meaning specified in the introductory paragraph hereto.
“New Vehicle Event of Default” has the meaning specified in Section 8.03.
“New Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing” means a New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Borrowing or a New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Borrowing, as the context may require.
“New Vehicle Floorplan Commitment” means, as to each Lender, its obligation to (a) make New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans
to the New Vehicle Borrowers pursuant to Section 2.06, and (b) purchase participations in New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans, in an
aggregate principal amount at any one time outstanding not to exceed the amount set forth opposite such Lender’s name on Schedule 2.01 or in
the Assignment and Assumption pursuant to which such Lender becomes a party hereto, as applicable, as such amount may be adjusted from
time to time in accordance with this Agreement.
“New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Borrowing” means a borrowing consisting of simultaneous New Vehicle Floorplan Committed
Loans of the same Type made by each of the New Vehicle Floorplan Lenders pursuant to Section 2.06.
“New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan” has the meaning specified in Section 2.05.
“New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice” means a notice of (a) a New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Borrowing, or (b) a
conversion of New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans from one Type to the other, pursuant to Section 2.07, which shall be substantially in the
form of Exhibit A-1 or such other form as may be approved by the Administrative Agent (including any form on an electronic platform or
electronic transmission system as shall be approved by the Administrative Agent), appropriately completed and signed by a Responsible
Officer of the Company.
“New Vehicle Floorplan Facility” means the New Vehicle floorplan facility described in Sections 2.05 through 2.09 providing for New
Vehicle Floorplan Loans to the New Vehicle Borrowers by the New Vehicle Floorplan Lenders.
“New Vehicle Floorplan Lender” means each Lender that has a New Vehicle Floorplan Commitment or, following termination of the
New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments, has New Vehicle Floorplan Loans outstanding.
“New Vehicle Floorplan Loan” means an extension of credit by a New Vehicle Floorplan Lender to a New Vehicle Borrower under
Article II in the form of a New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan (including any New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account Advance) or a New
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan.
“New Vehicle Floorplan Note” means a promissory note made by the New Vehicle Borrowers in favor of a Lender evidencing New
Vehicle Floorplan Loans made by such Lender, substantially in the form of Exhibit C-2.
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“New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account” has the meaning specified in Section 2.09(b)(i).
“New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account Advances” has the meaning specified in Section 2.09(b)(ii).
“New Vehicle Floorplan Operations Group” means the group at Bank of America that operates and administers the New Vehicle
Floorplan Facility.
“New Vehicle Floorplan Overdraft” has the meaning specified in Section 2.08.
“New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line” means the revolving credit facility made available by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Lender pursuant to Section 2.07.
“New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowing” means a borrowing of a New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan pursuant to Section
2.07.
“New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender” means Bank of America in its capacity as provider of New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Loans, or any successor New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender hereunder.
“New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan” has the meaning specified in Section 2.07(a).
“New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan Notice” means a notice of conversion of a New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan from
one Type to the other pursuant to Section 2.07(b), which shall be substantially in the form of Exhibit B-1 or such other form as approved by the
Administrative Agent (including any form on an electronic platform or electronic transmission system as shall be approved by the
Administrative Agent), appropriately completed and signed by a Responsible Officer of the Company.
“New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Sublimit” means, at any time, an amount equal to the lesser of (a) $85,000,000 or (b) the
Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments. The New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Sublimit is part of, and not in addition to, the
Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments.
“New Vehicle Non-Offset Floorplan Loan” means a New Vehicle Floorplan Loan other than a New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account
Advance.
“Non-Consenting Lender” means any Lender that does not approve any consent, waiver or amendment that (i) requires the approval of
all Lenders or all affected Lenders in accordance with the terms of Section 10.01 and (ii) has been approved by the Required Lenders.
“Non-Defaulting Lender” means, at any time, each Lender that is not a Defaulting Lender at such time.
“Non-Extending Lender” has the meaning specified in Section 2.23(b).
“Note” means a Revolving Note, a New Vehicle Floorplan Note or a Used Vehicle Floorplan Note, as applicable.
“Notice of Loan Prepayment” means a notice of prepayment with respect to a Loan, which shall be substantially in the form of Exhibit
R or such other form as may be approved by the Administrative
43
Agent (including any form on an electronic platform or electronic transmission system as shall be approved by the Administrative Agent),
appropriately completed and signed by a Responsible Officer.
“Obligations” means all advances to, and debts, liabilities, obligations, covenants and duties of, any Loan Party arising under any Loan
Document or otherwise with respect to any Loan, Letter of Credit, Secured Cash Management Agreement or Secured Hedge Agreement,
whether direct or indirect (including those acquired by assumption), absolute or contingent, due or to become due, now existing or hereafter
arising and including interest and fees that accrue after the commencement by or against any Loan Party or any Affiliate thereof of any
proceeding under any Debtor Relief Laws naming such Person as the debtor in such proceeding, regardless of whether such interest and fees
are allowed claims in such proceeding; provided, that Obligations of a Loan Party shall exclude any Excluded Swap Obligation with respect to
such Loan Party.
“OFAC” means the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the United States Department of the Treasury.
“Organization Documents” means, (a) with respect to any corporation, the charter or certificate or articles of incorporation and the
bylaws (or equivalent or comparable constitutive documents with respect to any non-U.S. jurisdiction); (b) with respect to any limited liability
company, the certificate or articles of formation or organization and operating or limited liability company agreement; and (c) with respect to
any partnership, joint venture, trust or other form of business entity, the partnership, joint venture or other applicable agreement of formation or
organization and any agreement, instrument, filing or notice with respect thereto filed in connection with its formation or organization with the
applicable Governmental Authority in the jurisdiction of its formation or organization and, if applicable, any certificate or articles of formation
or organization of such entity.
“Other Connection Taxes” means, with respect to any Recipient, Taxes imposed as a result of a present or former connection between
such Recipient and the jurisdiction imposing such Tax (other than connections arising from such Recipient having executed, delivered, become
a party to, performed its obligations under, received payments under, received or perfected a security interest under, engaged in any other
transaction pursuant to or enforced any Loan Document, or sold or assigned an interest in any Loan or Loan Document).
“Other Taxes” means all present or future stamp, court or documentary, intangible, recording, filing or similar Taxes that arise from any
payment made under, from the execution, delivery, performance, enforcement or registration of, from the receipt or perfection of a security
interest under, or otherwise with respect to, any Loan Document, except any such Taxes that are Other Connection Taxes imposed with respect
to an assignment (other than an assignment made pursuant to Section 3.05).
“Out of Balance” means, with respect to a New Vehicle Floorplan Loan, the outstanding balance thereof has not been paid in
accordance with Section 2.15(b)(iii).
“Outstanding Amount” means (i) with respect to Revolving Committed Loans and Revolving Swing Line Loans on any date, the
aggregate outstanding principal amount thereof after giving effect to any borrowings and prepayments or repayments of Revolving Committed
Loans and Revolving Swing Line Loans, as the case may be, occurring on such date; (ii) with respect to any L/C Obligations on any date, the
amount of such L/C Obligations on such date after giving effect to any L/C Credit Extension occurring on such date and any other changes in
the aggregate amount of the L/C Obligations as of such date, including as a result of any reimbursements by the Company of Unreimbursed
Amounts, (iii) with respect to New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans and New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans on
44
any date, the aggregate outstanding principal amount thereof after giving effect to any borrowings and prepayments or repayments of New
Vehicle Floorplan Commitment Loans and New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans, as the case may be, occurring on such date and (iv) with
respect to Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans and Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans on any date, the aggregate outstanding
principal amount thereof after giving effect to any borrowings and prepayments of repayments of Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans
and Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans, as the case may be, occurring on such date.
“Participant” has the meaning specified in Section 10.06(d).
“Participant Register” has the meaning specified in Section 10.06(d).
“Payment Commitment” means a written agreement entered into between the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and a vehicle
manufacturer or distributor (and if required pursuant to the terms of the Payment Commitment, the applicable Borrower or the Company),
providing for advances of the proceeds of New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans directly by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender
to such manufacturer or distributor in payment for the purchase by the applicable New Vehicle Borrower of New Vehicles specified by vehicle
identification number.
“Payoff Letter Commitment” means a written agreement entered into between the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and a
financial institution (and if required pursuant to the terms of the Payoff Letter Commitment, the applicable Borrower or the Company), which
agreement is delivered in connection with the payoff of floorplan financing provided by such financial institution and provides for advances of
the proceeds of New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans directly by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender to such financial
institution in order to pay for or refinance the purchase by the applicable New Vehicle Borrower of New Vehicles specified by vehicle
identification number.
“PBGC” means the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation.
“Pension Act” means the Pension Protection Act of 2006.
“Pension Funding Rules” means the rules of the Code and ERISA regarding minimum funding standards with respect to Pension Plans
and set forth in Sections 412, 430, 431, 432 and 436 of the Code and Sections 302, 303, 304 and 305 of ERISA.
“Pension Plan” means any employee pension benefit plan (including a Multiple Employer Plan or a Multiemployer Plan) that is
maintained or is contributed to by the Company and any ERISA Affiliate or with respect to which the Company or any ERISA Affiliate has any
liability and is either covered by Title IV of ERISA or is subject to the minimum funding standards under Section 412 of the Code.
“Permitted Acquisition” means any Acquisition permitted by Section 7.19.
“Permitted Disposition” means any Disposition permitted by Section 7.05.
“Permitted Floorplan Indebtedness” means (i) Indebtedness under the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility or the Used Vehicle Floorplan
Facility, and (ii) any other floorplan Indebtedness incurred by the Company or any Subsidiary to the extent such Indebtedness is permitted by
this Agreement.
“Permitted FMCC Floorplan Indebtedness” means New Vehicle floorplan Indebtedness that (a) is owed to FMCC by any Subsidiary
that operates a Ford or Lincoln dealership, (b) finances only the
45
acquisition of new Ford or Lincoln Vehicles by such Ford or Lincoln dealership, (c) is not guaranteed or owed by any Person other than (i) any
Subsidiary that operates such a Ford or Lincoln dealership or (ii) the Company, (d) is not secured by any assets other than the FMCC Collateral
(unless otherwise agreed to by the Administrative Agent) and (e) is subject to an FMCC Intercreditor Agreement.
“Permitted Real Estate Debt” means that certain Indebtedness described on Schedule 1.02(P), and any other Indebtedness (other than
Swap Contracts) of a Loan Party (i) secured solely by real property, fixtures, related real property rights, related contracts and proceeds of the
foregoing, owned by such Loan Party, and (ii) for which no Person other than the obligor of such Indebtedness, the Company or any Subsidiary
which is a Loan Party has any liability with respect to such Indebtedness, in each case of clauses (i) and (ii), so long as (x) the aggregate
amount of all Permitted Real Estate Debt outstanding at any time shall not exceed eighty-five percent (85%) of the value of the real property
securing such Indebtedness, as evidenced by the respective appraisals of the real property ordered in connection with obtaining such
Indebtedness, (y) the amount of any Permitted Real Estate Debt relating to a particular parcel of real property shall not exceed one hundred
percent (100%) of the value of such parcel securing such Indebtedness, as evidenced by the respective appraisal of such parcel ordered in
connection with obtaining such Indebtedness, and (z) upon the request of the Administrative Agent, the Company shall promptly deliver to the
Administrative Agent a copy of any appraisal described in clause (x) or (y) above.
“Permitted Service Loaner Indebtedness” means any Indebtedness that satisfies the requirements of Section 7.01(q).
“Person” means any natural person, corporation, limited liability company, trust, joint venture, association, company, partnership,
Governmental Authority or other entity.
“Plan” means any employee benefit plan within the meaning of Section 3(3) of ERISA (including a Pension Plan), maintained for
employees of the Company or any ERISA Affiliate or any such Plan to which the Company or any ERISA Affiliate is required to contribute on
behalf of any of its employees.
“Platform” has the meaning specified in Section 6.02.
“Pledge Agreement” means that certain Fourth Amended and Restated Securities Pledge Agreement dated as of the Closing Date made
by the Company and certain Loan Parties in favor of the Administrative Agent for the benefit of the Secured Parties, substantially in the form
of Exhibit N attached hereto, as supplemented from time to time by the execution and delivery of Joinder Agreements pursuant to Section 6.14
and as otherwise supplemented, amended or modified from time to time.
“Prepayment Test Amount” means, as of any date of measurement thereof:
(a)
the sum of (without duplication) (i) cash, cash equivalents and short-term marketable securities reflected on the books of the
Company and its Subsidiaries, in each case not subject to any Lien (other than Liens created under the Loan Documents), (ii) the Net Book
Value of Contracts-in-Transit, in each case not subject to any Lien (other than Liens created under the Loan Documents), (iii) the Net Book
Value of New Vehicles, (iv) 85% of the Net Book Value of Used Vehicles (net of Lien payoffs); provided that Rental Vehicles shall be excluded
from the calculation of the items in this clause (a), plus
(b)
the Available Unused Revolving Commitments, minus
(c)
the sum of (i) the Total New Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings, and (ii) the Total Used Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings, other
than (in each case of clause (i) and (ii)) the portion of any such
46
Total New Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings or Total Used Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings arising from Loans that finance Rental Vehicles.
“Prepayment Test Amount Certificate” means a certificate of a Responsible Officer of the Company substantially in the form of Exhibit
M setting forth a calculation of the Prepayment Test Amount.
“Prior Indenture” means that certain Indenture, dated as of December 4, 2014 (as amended, supplemented and otherwise modified prior
to the date hereof, and as further amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time to the extent permitted hereunder), governing
the $600,000,000 aggregate principal amount of outstanding 6.0% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2024 of the Company.
“Pro Forma Compliance” means,
(i)
with respect to any event that requires Pro Forma Compliance under this Agreement (each, a “Pro Forma
Determination Event”) other than as set forth in clause (ii) or (iii) below, that: (A) the Company and its Subsidiaries are in pro forma
compliance with the financial covenants set forth in Section 7.11 (calculated as if such Pro Forma Determination Event had occurred on
the first day of the four fiscal quarter period ending on the last day of the most recent fiscal quarter in respect of which financial
statements have been delivered pursuant to Section 6.01(a) or (b)), (B) the Total Revolving Outstandings will not exceed the lesser of
the Aggregate Revolving Commitments and the Revolving Borrowing Base (such Total Revolving Outstandings and Revolving
Borrowing Base being calculated on a pro forma basis as if such Pro Forma Determination Event had occurred on the date the most
recent Revolving Borrowing Base Certificate has been delivered pursuant to Section 6.02(a)(i)), and (C) the Total Used Vehicle
Floorplan Outstandings will not exceed the lesser of the Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments and the Used Vehicle
Floorplan Borrowing Base (such Total Used Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings and Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base being
calculated on a pro forma basis as if such Pro Forma Determination Event had occurred on the date the most recent Used Vehicle
Floorplan Borrowing Base Certificate has been delivered pursuant to Section 6.02(b)),
(ii)
with respect to any Restricted Payment to be made on any date (any such date, an “Applicable Restricted Payment
Date”) as contemplated by Section 7.10, that the Company and its Subsidiaries will be in pro forma compliance with the financial
covenants set forth in Section 7.11 as of the last day of the most recent fiscal quarter in respect of which financial statements have been
delivered pursuant to Section 6.01(a) or (b), such financial covenants being calculated on a pro forma basis as if such Restricted
Payment (and any other Restricted Payment made on the Applicable Restricted Payment Date or at any time since the last day of such
fiscal quarter) had been made on the last day of such fiscal quarter, and
(iii)
with respect to any prepayment of Indebtedness to be made on any date (any such date, an “Applicable Prepayment
Date”) as contemplated by Section 7.16, that the Company and its Subsidiaries will be in pro forma compliance with the financial
covenants set forth in Section 7.11 as of the last day of the fiscal quarter which includes the Applicable Prepayment Date as well as the
last day of each of the three fiscal quarters succeeding the fiscal quarter containing the Applicable Prepayment Date, in each case (x)
calculated as if such prepayment had occurred on the first day of the fiscal quarter which includes the Applicable Prepayment Date and
(y) based on projected financial statements delivered to the Administrative Agent which do not reflect material and adverse changes in
growth or turnover assumptions of trading assets or accounts payable as compared to the most recent financial statements delivered
pursuant to Sections 6.01(a) or (b). Pro forma calculations made pursuant to this definition that require calculations of Consolidated
EBITDAR on a pro forma basis will be made in accordance with Section 1.04(d).
47
“Pro Forma Compliance Certificate” means, with respect to any event, a duly completed Compliance Certificate demonstrating the pro
forma calculations of the items set forth in the Compliance Certificate on a pro forma basis in accordance with the definition of “Pro Forma
Compliance.”
“Pro Forma Prepayment Test Amount” means the Prepayment Test Amount calculated on a pro forma basis as of the last day of the
fiscal quarter which includes the Applicable Prepayment Date as well as the last day of each of the three fiscal quarters succeeding the fiscal
quarter containing the Applicable Prepayment Date, (a) calculated as if such prepayment had occurred on the first day of the fiscal quarter
which includes the Applicable Prepayment Date and (b) based on projected financial statements delivered to the Administrative Agent which
do not reflect material and adverse changes in growth or turnover assumptions of trading assets or accounts payable as compared to the most
recent financial statements delivered pursuant to Section 6.01(a) or (b).
“Pro Forma Revolving Borrowing Base Certificate” means, with respect to any event, a duly completed Revolving Borrowing Base
Certificate demonstrating the calculations of the Revolving Borrowing Base on a pro forma basis in accordance with the definition of “Pro
Forma Compliance.”
“Pro Forma Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base Certificate” means, with respect to any event, a duly completed Used Vehicle
Floorplan Borrowing Base Certificate demonstrating pro forma calculations of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base on a pro forma
basis in accordance with the definition of “Pro Forma Compliance.”
“PTE” means a prohibited transaction class exemption issued by the U.S. Department of Labor, as any such exemption may be
amended from time to time.
“Public Lender” has the meaning specified in Section 6.02.
“Qualified Cash” means, as of any date of determination, means the sum of (i) the amount of unrestricted (as defined below) cash and
Cash Equivalents of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries at such time, to the extent held in deposit accounts or securities accounts
(agreed to between the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary, as applicable, and the Administrative Agent) in each case which is a segregated
account subject to a Blocked Account Agreement or in deposit accounts maintained with Bank of America which ensures that the
Administrative Agent has a first priority, perfected Lien in such account; provided that (a) if requested by the Administrative Agent, the
applicable account bank (if not the Administrative Agent) shall provide daily reports to the Administrative Agent setting forth the balances in
such accounts and such information as the Administrative Agent may reasonably request, and (b) Qualified Cash shall not include any funds or
accounts that constitute the Floorplan Offset Amount. For purposes of this definition “unrestricted” means, with respect to any cash or Cash
Equivalent, that the use thereof for application to payment of Indebtedness is not prohibited by law or any contract to which the Company or its
Restricted Subsidiaries is a party.
“Qualified ECP Guarantor” means, at any time, each Loan Party with total assets exceeding $10,000,000 or that qualifies at such time
as an “eligible contract participant” under the Commodity Exchange Act and can cause another Person to qualify as an “eligible contract
participant” at such time under Section 1a(18)(A)(v)(II) of the Commodity Exchange Act.
“Qualified Sale/Leaseback Transaction” means a sale by any of the Loan Parties or any of their Subsidiaries of personal property or
real property and related fixtures and accessories used in the ordinary course of business, which property does not include any Collateral and
which property is, in a concurrent
48
transaction, leased by such Person from the purchaser thereof under a lease agreement, the terms of which, as of the date of such transaction,
based upon the immediately preceding four fiscal quarters of the Company, would not cause the Company to be in Default under any of the
provisions of this Agreement.
“Qualified Service Loaner Program” means any program with any Manufacturer, or the financial affiliate of such a Manufacturer,
pursuant to which the Company or any Subsidiary (i) finances New Vehicles under such program, which New Vehicles are used by the
Company or such Subsidiary as Rental Vehicles and (ii) is subject to an intercreditor agreement (in form and substance satisfactory to the
Administrative Agent) between the creditor under such Indebtedness and the Administrative Agent (a “Service Loaner Intercreditor
Agreement”).
“Recipient” means the Administrative Agent, any Lender, any L/C Issuer or any other recipient of any payment to be made by or on
account of any obligation of any Loan Party hereunder.
“Register” has the meaning specified in Section 10.06(c).
“Regulation U” means Regulation U of the FRB, as in effect from time to time and all official rulings and interpretations thereunder or
thereof.
“Related Parties” means, with respect to any Person, such Person’s Affiliates and the partners, directors, officers, employees, agents,
trustees, administrators, managers, advisors, consultants, service providers and representatives of such Person and of such Person’s Affiliates.
“Rental Vehicle” means a New Vehicle less than two years old owned by a New Vehicle Borrower and purchased directly from a
manufacturer as a New Vehicle and that is used as a service or daily loaner vehicle or is periodically subject to a rental contract with customers
of the New Vehicle Borrower for loaner or rental periods of up to sixty (60) consecutive days or is used by dealership personnel in connection
with parts and service operations. Rental Vehicles may be registered with applicable Governmental Authorities in the ordinary course of
business.
“Reportable Event” means any of the events set forth in Section 4043(c) of ERISA, other than events for which the 30 day notice
period has been waived.
“Request for Credit Extension” means (a) with respect to a Revolving Committed Borrowing or conversion of Revolving Committed
Loans, a Revolving Committed Loan Notice, (b) with respect to an L/C Credit Extension, a Letter of Credit Application, (c) with respect to a
Revolving Swing Line Loan, or conversion of Revolving Swing Line Loans, a Revolving Swing Line Loan Notice, (d) with respect to a New
Vehicle Floorplan Committed Borrowing, or conversion of New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan, a New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan
Notice, (e) with respect to a conversion of New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans, a New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan Notice, (f)
with respect to a Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Borrowing, or conversion of Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans, a Used Vehicle
Floorplan Committed Loan Notice, and (g) with respect to a Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan, or conversion of Used Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Loans, a Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan Notice.
“Required Lenders” means, as of any date of determination, Lenders whose Commitments aggregate more than 50% of the Aggregate
Commitments, provided that, if the Commitment of each Lender under an Applicable Facility to make Loans and, if applicable, the obligation
of each L/C Issuer to make L/C Credit Extensions have been terminated pursuant to Section 8.02 or 8.04, the Commitments under such Facility
shall be calculated based on the Total Revolving Outstandings, Total New Vehicle
49
Floorplan Outstandings, or Total Used Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings (as the case may be) with respect to such Facility (with the aggregate
amount of each Lender’s risk participation and funded participation in L/C Obligations, Revolving Swing Line Loans, New Vehicle Floorplan
Swing Line Loans and Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans, as applicable, being deemed “held” by such Lender for purposes of this
definition); provided that (i) the Commitment of, and the portion of the Total Outstandings held or deemed held by, any Defaulting Lender shall
be excluded for purposes of making a determination of Required Lenders and (ii) in the event that at the time of such determination any New
Vehicle Floorplan Overdraft is outstanding, each of (x) the Aggregate Commitments and the Total New Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings, and (y)
the Commitment of or Total New Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings held by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender (as the case may be),
shall be deemed for purposes of this determination to be increased in the amount of such outstanding New Vehicle Floorplan Overdraft.
“Rescindable Amount” has the meaning as defined in Section 2.20(b)(ii).
“Resolution Authority” means an EEA Resolution Authority or, with respect to any UK Financial Institution, a UK Resolution
Authority.
“Responsible Officer” means the chief executive officer, president, chief financial officer, treasurer, assistant treasurer or controller of a
Loan Party and solely for purposes of the delivery of incumbency certificates pursuant to Section 4.01, the secretary or any assistant secretary
of a Loan Party and, solely for purposes of notices given pursuant to Article II, any other officer or employee of the applicable Loan Party so
designated by any of the foregoing officers in a notice to the Administrative Agent or any other officer or employee of the applicable Loan
Party designated in or pursuant to an agreement between the applicable Loan Party and the Administrative Agent. Any document delivered
hereunder that is signed by a Responsible Officer of a Loan Party shall be conclusively presumed to have been authorized by all necessary
corporate, partnership and/or other action on the part of such Loan Party and such Responsible Officer shall be conclusively presumed to have
acted on behalf of such Loan Party. To the extent requested by the Administrative Agent, each Responsible Officer will provide an incumbency
certificate and to the extent requested by the Administrative Agent, appropriate authorization documentation, in form and substance satisfactory
to the Administrative Agent.
“Restricted Payment” means any dividend or other distribution (whether in cash, securities or other property) with respect to any
capital stock or other Equity Interest of the Company or any Subsidiary, or any payment (whether in cash, securities or other property),
including any sinking fund or similar deposit, on account of the purchase, redemption, retirement, acquisition, cancellation or termination of
any such capital stock or other Equity Interest, or on account of any return of capital to the Company’s or any Subsidiary’s stockholders,
partners or members (or the equivalent Person thereof).
“Restricted Subsidiary” means each direct or indirect Subsidiary of the Company that (i) is not an Immaterial Subsidiary, is not a
Captive Insurance Company, is not a Specified Insurance Subsidiary and is not a Designated Escrow Subsidiary, (ii) owns or operates a
dealership or (iii) owns any real estate used in the operation of a dealership.
“Revolving Autoborrow Advance” shall have the meaning specified in Section 2.04(b).
“Revolving Autoborrow Agreement” shall have the meaning specified in Section 2.04(b).
“Revolving Borrowing” means a Revolving Committed Borrowing or a Revolving Swing Line Borrowing, as the context may require.
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“Revolving Borrowing Base” means as of any date of calculation, the lesser of (1) Aggregate Revolving Commitments or (2) the sum
of:
(A) the sum of (i) the Net Book Value of Eligible Contracts-in-Transit, (ii) 80% of the Net Book Value of Eligible Accounts, including
Eligible Accounts that are factory receivables, (iii) the Net Book Value of Eligible New Vehicle Inventory, (iv) 85% of the Net Book
Value of Eligible Used Vehicle Inventory, (v) 65% of the Net Book Value of Eligible Parts and Accessories Inventory, (vi) 50% of
Qualified Cash, and (vii) 40% of the Net Book Value of Eligible Equipment; provided that Rental Vehicles will be excluded from the
calculation of the items in this clause (A);
plus (B) 75% of the appraised or tax assessed value, as applicable, of the Eligible Borrowing Base Real Estate (which such value will
be determined on the most recent FIRREA-conforming appraisal or tax assessed value, as the case may be, received by the
Administrative Agent); provided that amounts added to the Revolving Borrowing Base pursuant to this clause (B) shall not at any time
exceed 40% of the Aggregate Revolving Commitments; and
minus (C) the sum of (i) the Total New Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings (without giving effect to any Loan Repayments From Offset or
the New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account) plus (ii) the Total Used Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings, minus (iii) the Floorplan Offset
Amount, other than (in the case of each of clauses (i) and (ii)) the portion of such Total New Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings or Total
Used Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings arising from Loans that financed Rental Vehicles.
“Revolving Borrowing Base Certificate” means a certificate by a Responsible Officer of the Company, substantially in the form of
Exhibit J-1 (or another form acceptable to the Administrative Agent) setting forth the calculation of the Revolving Borrowing Base, including a
calculation of each component thereof, all in such detail as shall be reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent (and which will include
a designation of those assets and liabilities of Subsidiaries which operate Ford or Lincoln Franchises and other classifications which do not
qualify for inclusion in the Revolving Borrowing Base because such assets are not subject to the first priority perfected Lien of the
Administrative Agent or any other reason for disqualification thereof). All calculations of the Revolving Borrowing Base in connection with the
preparation of any Revolving Borrowing Base Certificate shall originally be made by the Company and certified to the Administrative Agent.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Administrative Agent has reasonable grounds to believe that the calculation of the Revolving Borrowing
Base set forth in any Revolving Borrowing Base Certificate is not in accordance with this Agreement, the Administrative Agent shall inform
the Company of the grounds for such belief and shall request confirmation by the Company of the calculation. Prior to confirmation, the
Revolving Borrowing Base may be adjusted by the Administrative Agent so the calculation thereof is in accordance with this Agreement (in the
Administrative Agent’s reasonable determination).
“Revolving Commitment” means, as to each Lender, its obligation to (a) make Revolving Committed Loans to the Company pursuant
to Section 2.01, (b) purchase participations in L/C Obligations, and (c) purchase participations in Revolving Swing Line Loans, in an aggregate
principal amount at any one time outstanding not to exceed the amount set forth opposite such Lender’s name on Schedule 2.01 or in the
Assignment and Assumption pursuant to which such Lender becomes a party hereto, as applicable, as such amount may be adjusted from time
to time in accordance with this Agreement.
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“Revolving Committed Borrowing” means a borrowing consisting of simultaneous Revolving Committed Loans of the same Type
made by each of the Revolving Lenders pursuant to Section 2.01.
“Revolving Committed Loan” has the meaning specified in Section 2.01.
“Revolving Committed Loan Notice” means a notice of (a) a Revolving Borrowing or (b) a conversion of Revolving Committed Loans
from one Type to the other, pursuant to Section 2.02(a), which shall be substantially in the form of Exhibit A-2 or such other form as may be
approved by the Administrative Agent (including any form on an electronic platform or electronic transmission system as shall be approved by
the Administrative Agent), appropriately completed and signed by a Responsible Officer of the Company.
“Revolving Credit Facility” means the revolving credit facility described in Sections 2.01 through 2.05 providing for Revolving Loans
to the Company by the Revolving Lenders and L/C Credit Extensions by the L/C Issuers.
“Revolving Lender” means each Lender that has a Revolving Commitment or, following termination of the Revolving Commitments,
has Revolving Loans outstanding.
“Revolving Loan” means an extension of credit by a Revolving Lender to the Company under Article II in the form of a Revolving
Committed Loan or a Revolving Swing Line Loan.
“Revolving Note” means a promissory note made by the Company in favor of a Lender evidencing Revolving Loans made by such
Lender, substantially in the form of Exhibit C-1.
“Revolving Swing Line” means the revolving credit facility made available by the Revolving Swing Line Lender pursuant to Section
2.04.
“Revolving Swing Line Borrowing” means a borrowing of a Revolving Swing Line Loan pursuant to Section 2.04.
“Revolving Swing Line Lender” means Bank of America in its capacity as provider of Revolving Swing Line Loans, or any successor
revolving swing line lender hereunder.
“Revolving Swing Line Loan” has the meaning specified in Section 2.04(a).
“Revolving Swing Line Loan Notice” means a notice of a Revolving Swing Line Borrowing pursuant to Section 2.04(b) which shall be
substantially in the form of Exhibit B-2 or such other form as approved by the Administrative Agent (including any form on an electronic
platform or electronic transmission system as shall be approved by the Administrative Agent), appropriately completed and signed by a
Responsible Officer of the Company.
“Revolving Swing Line Sublimit” means an amount equal to the lesser of (a) $15,000,000 or (b) the Aggregate Revolving
Commitments. The Revolving Swing Line Sublimit is part of, and not in addition to, the Aggregate Revolving Commitments.
“Revolving/Used Vehicle Event of Default” has the meaning specified in Section 8.01.
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“Sanction(s)” means any international economic sanction administered or enforced by the United States Government (including
without limitation, OFAC), the United Nations Security Council, the European Union, His Majesty’s Treasury or other relevant sanctions
authority.
“S&P” means Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC, a subsidiary of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. and any successor
thereto.
“Scheduled Unavailability Date” has the meaning specified in Section 3.03(b).
“SEC” means the Securities and Exchange Commission, or any Governmental Authority succeeding to any of its principal functions.
“Secured Cash Management Agreement” means any Cash Management Agreement that is entered into by and between any Loan Party
and any Cash Management Bank.
“Secured Hedge Agreement” means any Swap Contract permitted under Article VII that is entered into by and between any Loan Party
and any Hedge Bank.
“Secured Parties” means, collectively, the Administrative Agent, the Lenders, the L/C Issuers, the Hedge Banks, the Cash Management
Banks, each co-agent or sub-agent appointed by the Administrative Agent from time to time pursuant to Section 9.05, and the other Persons the
Obligations owing to which are or are purported to be secured by the Collateral under the terms of the Security Instruments.
“Security Agreement” means that certain Fourth Amended and Restated Security Agreement dated as of the Closing Date made by the
Company and each other Loan Party in favor of the Administrative Agent for the benefit of the Secured Parties, substantially in the form of
Exhibit K attached hereto, as supplemented from time to time by the execution and delivery of Joinder Agreements pursuant to Section 6.14,
and as otherwise supplemented, amended, or modified from time to time.
“Security Instruments” means, collectively or individually as the context may indicate, the Security Agreement, the Pledge Agreement,
the Escrow and Security Agreement, any Joinder Agreement, and all other agreements, instruments and other documents, whether now existing
or hereafter in effect, pursuant to which any Borrower, any other Loan Party, or any other Person shall grant or convey to the Administrative
Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties a Lien in, or any other Person shall acknowledge any such Lien in, property as security for all or
any portion of the Obligations and any other obligation under any Loan Document.
“Service Loaner Intercreditor Agreement” has the meaning specified in the definition of “Qualified Service Loaner Program.”
“SOFR Adjustment” with respect to Daily Simple SOFR means 0.10% (10 basis points).
“SOFR Administrator” means the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, as the administrator of the Daily Simple SOFR Published Rate,
or any successor administrator of the Daily Simple SOFR Published Rate designated by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York or other Person
acting as the SOFR Administrator at such time that is satisfactory to the Administrative Agent.
“Specified Event of Default” means an Event of Default arising under any or all of Sections 8.01(a), 8.01(f), 8.01(g), 8.03(a), 8.03(g) or
8.03(h).
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“Specified Insurance Subsidiary” means (a) each of Landcar Casualty Company, Landcar Agency, Inc., and Landcar Administration
Company, or (b) any insurance company organized under the laws of a state of the United States which company is either (i) formed by the
Company or any of its Subsidiaries or i) acquired by the Company or any of its Subsidiaries or Affiliates in connection with any Permitted
Acquisition, in each case of clauses (a), (b)(i) and (b)(ii) so long such entity is and remains a regulated entity and the sole purpose of such entity
is providing extended service contracts and other consumer protection products to customers of the Vehicle Borrowers.
“Specified Koons Acquisition Agreement Representations” means, with respect to the date of any Credit Extension, the representations
made by the Koons Sellers or their subsidiaries in the Koons Acquisition Documents that are material to the interests of the Administrative
Agent or the Lenders, but only to the extent that the Company or any of the Company’s affiliates have the right to terminate the Company’s or
such affiliate’s obligations under the Koons Acquisition Documents or to decline to consummate the acquisition of the business to be financed
by a Credit Extension on such date as a result of a breach of such representations in the Koons Acquisition Documents without liability to the
Company or such affiliate.
“Specified Loan Party” means any Loan Party that is not then an “eligible contract participant” under the Commodity Exchange Act
(determined prior to giving effect to Section 10.20).
“Specified Representations” means the representations and warranties (including to the extent incorporated by reference in other Loan
Documents) set forth in Section 5.01(a), Section 5.01(b)(ii) (solely with respect to corporate, limited liability company or partnership power
and authority), Section 5.02 (solely with respect to authorization of execution, delivery and performance of the Loan Documents by corporate
or other organizational action), Section 5.02(a), Section 5.02(b)(i) (solely with respect to material Franchise Agreements or Framework
Agreements, material lease agreements and other material agreements with manufacturers or distributors of Vehicles), Section 5.02(c), Section
5.04, Section 5.14, Section 5.21, Section 5.22, Section 5.25, Section 5.26, and Section 5.27.
“Specified Subsidiary” means (a) any Restricted Subsidiary of the Company that does not own or operate a Ford or Lincoln dealership,
or (b) at any time after the FMCC Indebtedness Termination has occurred, any Restricted Subsidiary.
“Subordinated Indebtedness” means all Indebtedness of the Company or its Subsidiaries which (a) is subordinated to the Obligations
contained herein in a manner reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent or has subordination terms substantially similar to those in the
Prior Indenture, (b) without limitation of any other provision herein (including Section 7.16), does not require any payment of principal (or give
the holder thereof any rights to require repurchase of such Indebtedness through put rights or otherwise) prior to the date that is 30 days after
the Maturity Date (other than reasonable and customary prepayment, redemption, repurchase or defeasance obligations in connection with (i)
sales of assets (so long as the terms relating thereto are not materially less favorable to the Loan Parties than the comparable terms set forth in
the Prior Indenture), (ii) a change in control and (iii) the exercise of remedies in connection with the occurrence of an event of default), (c) such
other Indebtedness has interest rates and fees that are not in excess of the rates and fees standard in the market at the time such Indebtedness is
incurred as determined by the Company in good faith, (d) has, or the Administrative Agent (in its reasonable discretion after Reasonable
Review (defined below)) has determined that such Indebtedness has, standstill and blockage provisions with regard to payments and
enforcement actions that are no more adverse to the Lenders than those in the Prior Indenture (as such standstill and blockage provisions relate
to the Existing Credit Agreement lenders and lenders that provide Vehicle floorplan
54
financing to the Company or any of its Subsidiaries), and (e) the terms relating to amortization, maturity, collateral (if any), and other material
terms of such Indebtedness and of any agreement entered into and of any instrument issued in connection therewith, taken as a whole, are not
materially less favorable to the Loan Parties than the terms of the Prior Indenture, in each case as determined by the Company in good faith.
For the purposes of clause (d) above, “Reasonable Review” means that the Administrative Agent has had the opportunity and reasonable time
to review copies of the definitive documentation for such Indebtedness, which copies have been provided to the Administrative Agent by the
Company or its Subsidiaries.
“Subsidiary” of a Person means a corporation, partnership, joint venture, limited liability company or other business entity of which a
majority of the shares of securities or other interests having ordinary voting power for the election of directors or other governing body (other
than securities or interests having such power only by reason of the happening of a contingency) are at the time beneficially owned, or the
management of which is otherwise controlled, directly, or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, or both, by such Person. Unless
otherwise specified, all references herein to a “Subsidiary” or to “Subsidiaries” shall refer to a Subsidiary or Subsidiaries of the Company and
shall include, without limitation, the Unrestricted Subsidiaries.
“Subsidiary Guarantors” means, collectively, all Subsidiaries executing a Subsidiary Guaranty on the Closing Date and all other
Subsidiaries that enter into a Joinder Agreement; provided, for the avoidance of doubt, that no Foreign Subsidiary shall be a Subsidiary
Guarantor.
“Subsidiary Guaranty” means the Fourth Amended and Restated Subsidiary Guaranty Agreement made by the Subsidiary Guarantors
in favor of the Administrative Agent and the Lenders, substantially in the form of Exhibit F as supplemented from time to time by execution
and delivery of Joinder Agreements pursuant to Section 6.14 and as otherwise supplemented, amended, or modified from time to time.
“Successor Rate” has the meaning specified in Section 3.03(b).
“Swap Contract” means (a) any and all rate swap transactions, basis swaps, credit derivative transactions, forward rate transactions,
commodity swaps, commodity options, forward commodity contracts, equity or equity index swaps or options, bond or bond price or bond
index swaps or options or forward bond or forward bond price or forward bond index transactions, interest rate options, forward foreign
exchange transactions, cap transactions, floor transactions, collar transactions, currency swap transactions, cross-currency rate swap
transactions, currency options, spot contracts, or any other similar transactions or any combination of any of the foregoing (including any
options to enter into any of the foregoing), whether or not any such transaction is governed by or subject to any master agreement and (b) any
and all transactions of any kind, and the related confirmations, which are subject to the terms and conditions of, or governed by, any form of
master agreement published by the International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc., any International Foreign Exchange Master
Agreement, or any other master agreement (any such master agreement, together with any related schedules, a “Master Agreement”), including
any such obligations or liabilities under any Master Agreement.
“Swap Obligations” means with respect to any Guarantor any obligation to pay or perform under any agreement, contract or transaction
that constitutes a “swap” within the meaning of Section 1a(47) of the Commodity Exchange Act.
“Swap Termination Value” means, in respect of any one or more Swap Contracts, after taking into account the effect of any legally
enforceable netting agreement relating to such Swap Contracts, (a)
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for any date on or after the date such Swap Contracts have been closed out and termination value(s) determined in accordance therewith, such
termination value(s), and (b) for any date prior to the date referenced in clause (a), the amount(s) determined as the mark-to-market value(s) for
such Swap Contracts, as determined based upon one or more mid-market or other readily available quotations provided by any recognized
dealer in such Swap Contracts (which may include a Lender or any Affiliate of a Lender).
“Swing Line Borrowings” means, collectively, Revolving Swing Line Borrowings, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowings and
Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowings.
“Swing Line Lenders” means, collectively, the Revolving Swing Line Lender, the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and the
Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender
“Swing Line Loans” means, collectively, Revolving Swing Line Loans, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans and Used Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Loans.
“Synthetic Lease Obligation” means the monetary obligation of a Person under (a) a so-called synthetic, off-balance sheet or tax
retention lease, or (b) an agreement for the use or possession of property creating obligations that do not appear on the balance sheet of such
Person but which, upon the insolvency or bankruptcy of such Person, would be characterized as the indebtedness of such Person (without
regard to accounting treatment).
“Taxes” means all present or future taxes, levies, imposts, duties, deductions, withholdings (including backup withholding),
assessments, fees or other charges imposed by any Governmental Authority, including any interest, additions to tax or penalties applicable
thereto.
“Threshold Amount” means $75,000,000.
“Total Credit Exposure” means, as to any Lender at any time, the sum of the unused Commitments of such Lender at such time, plus
the aggregate principal amount at such time of such Lender’s outstanding Loans and such Lender’s participation in L/C Obligations at such
time.
“Total New Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings” means the aggregate Outstanding Amount of all New Vehicle Floorplan Loans.
“Total Outstandings” means the aggregate of the Total Revolving Outstandings, Total New Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings and Total
Used Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings.
“Total Revolving Outstandings” means the aggregate Outstanding Amount of all Revolving Loans and all L/C Obligations.
“Total Used Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings” means the aggregate Outstanding Amount of all Used Vehicle Floorplan Loans.
“Type” means with respect to a Loan, its character as a Base Rate Loan or a Daily Simple SOFR Loan.
“UCC” means the Uniform Commercial Code as in effect in the State of New York; provided that, if perfection or the effect of
perfection or non-perfection or the priority of any security interest in any Collateral is governed by the Uniform Commercial Code as in effect
in a jurisdiction other than the State
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of New York, “UCC” means the Uniform Commercial Code as in effect from time to time in such other jurisdiction for purposes of the
provisions hereof relating to such perfection, effect of perfection or non-perfection or priority.
“UCP” means the Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits, International Chamber of Commerce Publication No. 600
(or such later version thereof as may be in effect at the applicable time).
“UK Financial Institution” means any BRRD Undertaking (as such term is defined under the PRA Rulebook (as amended form time to
time) promulgated by the United Kingdom Prudential Regulation Authority) or any person subject to IFPRU 11.6 of the FCA Handbook (as
amended from time to time) promulgated by the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority, which includes certain credit institutions and
investment firms, and certain affiliates of such credit institutions or investment firms.
“UK Resolution Authority” means the Bank of England or any other public administrative authority having responsibility for the
resolution of any UK Financial Institution.
“United States” and “U.S.” mean the United States of America.
“Unreimbursed Amount” has the meaning specified in Section 2.03(c)(i).
“Unrestricted Subsidiaries” means all Subsidiaries of the Company other than the Restricted Subsidiaries.
“U.S. Government Securities Business Day” means any day except for (a) a Saturday, (b) a Sunday or (c) a day on which the Securities
Industry and Financial Markets Association recommends that the fixed income departments of its members be closed for the entire day for
purposes of trading in United States government securities.
“U.S. Person” means any Person that is a “United States Person” as defined in Section 7701(a)(30) of the Code.
“U.S. Tax Compliance Certificate” has the meaning specified in Section 3.01(e)(ii)(B)(III).
“Used Vehicle” means a Vehicle other than a New Vehicle.
“Used Vehicle Autoborrow Advance” shall have the meaning specified in Section 2.12(b).
“Used Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement” shall have the meaning specified in Section 2.12(b).
“Used Vehicle Borrower” has the meaning specified in the introductory paragraph hereto.
“Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing” means a Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Borrowing or a Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Borrowing, as the context may require.
“Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base” means, as of any date of calculation, 85% of the Net Book Value of Eligible Used Vehicle
Inventory.
“Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base Certificate” means a certificate by a Responsible Officer of the Company, substantially in the
form of Exhibit J-2 (or another form acceptable to the
57
Administrative Agent) setting forth the calculation of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base, including a calculation of each component
thereof, all in such detail as shall be reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent (and which will include a designation of those assets of
Subsidiaries which operate Ford or Lincoln Franchises and other classifications which do not qualify for inclusion in the Used Vehicle
Floorplan Borrowing Base because such assets are not subject to the first priority perfected Lien of the Administrative Agent or any other
reason for disqualification thereof). All calculations of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base in connection with the preparation of any
Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base Certificate shall originally be made by the Company and certified to the Administrative Agent.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Administrative Agent has reasonable grounds to believe that the calculation of the Used Vehicle Floorplan
Borrowing Base set forth in any Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base Certificate is not in accordance with this Agreement, the
Administrative Agent shall inform the Company of the grounds for such belief and shall request confirmation by the Company of the
calculation. Prior to confirmation, the Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base may be adjusted by the Administrative Agent so the calculation
thereof is in accordance with this Agreement (in the Administrative Agent’s reasonable determination).
“Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitment” means, as to each Lender, its obligation to (a) make Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans
to the Used Vehicle Borrowers pursuant to Section 2.11, and (b) purchase participations in Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans, in an
aggregate principal amount at any one time outstanding not to exceed the amount set forth opposite such Lender’s name on Schedule 2.01 or in
the Assignment and Assumption pursuant to which such Lender becomes a party hereto, as applicable, as such amount may be adjusted from
time to time in accordance with this Agreement.
“Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Borrowing” means a borrowing consisting of simultaneous Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed
Loans of the same Type made by each of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Lenders pursuant to Section 2.11.
“Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan” has the meaning specified in Section 2.10.
“Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice” means a notice of (a) a Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Borrowing, or (b) a
conversion of Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans from one Type to the other, pursuant to Section 2.11(a), which shall be substantially in
the form of Exhibit A-3 or such other form as may be approved by the Administrative Agent (including any form on an electronic platform or
electronic transmission system as shall be approved by the Administrative Agent), appropriately completed and signed by a Responsible
Officer of the Company.
“Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility” means the Used Vehicle floorplan facility described in Sections 2.10 through 2.12 providing for
Used Vehicle Floorplan Loans to the Used Vehicle Borrowers by the Used Vehicle Floorplan Lenders.
“Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender” means each Lender that has a Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitment or, following termination of the
Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments, has Used Vehicle Floorplan Loans outstanding.
“Used Vehicle Floorplan Loan” means an extension of credit by a Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender to a Used Vehicle Borrower under
Article II in the form of a Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan or, in the case of the Company only, a Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Loan.
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“Used Vehicle Floorplan Note” means a promissory note made by the Used Vehicle Borrowers in favor of a Lender evidencing Used
Vehicle Floorplan Loans made by such Lender, substantially in the form of Exhibit C-3.
“Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line” means the revolving credit facility made available by the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Lender pursuant to Section 2.12.
“Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowing” means a borrowing of a Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan pursuant to Section
2.12.
“Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender” means Bank of America in its capacity as provider of Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing
Line Loans, or any successor Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender hereunder.
“Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan” has the meaning specified in Section 2.12(a).
“Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan Notice” means a notice of a Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowing pursuant to
Section 2.12(b) which shall be substantially in the form of Exhibit B-3 or such other form as approved by the Administrative Agent (including
any form on an electronic platform or electronic transmission system as shall be approved by the Administrative Agent), appropriately
completed and signed by a Responsible Officer of the Company.
“Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Sublimit” means an amount equal to the lesser of (a) $20,000,000 or (b) the Aggregate Used
Vehicle Floorplan Commitments. The Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Sublimit is part of, and not in addition to, the Aggregate Used
Vehicle Floorplan Commitments.
“Vehicle” means any automobile or truck approved for highway use by any State of the United States.
“Vehicle Borrower” has the meaning specified in the introductory paragraph hereto.
“Vehicle Title Documentation” has the meaning specified in Section 6.05.
“Within Line Limitation” means,
(a)
with respect to any New Vehicle Borrower, any dealer location and any specific vehicle manufacturer, distributor, or (in the
case of a dealer trade) other dealer involved in such trade, as applicable, limitations on the amount of New Vehicle Floorplan Loans that may be
advanced to such manufacturer, distributor or other dealer with respect to New Vehicles purchased or to be purchased by such New Vehicle
Borrower for such dealer location, or
(b)
with respect to any New Vehicle Borrower, any dealer location and any specific vehicle manufacturer, distributor, or (in the
case of a dealer trade) other dealer involved in such trade, as applicable, and Demonstrators, Rental Vehicles and Fleet Vehicles, limitations on
the amount of New Vehicle Floorplan Loans that may be advanced to such manufacturer, distributor or other dealer with respect to
Demonstrators, Rental Vehicles and Fleet Vehicles purchased or to be purchased by such New Vehicle Borrower for such dealer location, which
limitations (in each case) are agreed to from time to time by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and such distributor or
manufacturer from time to time.
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“Write-Down and Conversion Powers” means, (a) with respect to any EEA Resolution Authority, the write-down and conversion
powers of such EEA Resolution Authority from time to time under the Bail-In Legislation for the applicable EEA Member Country, which
write-down and conversion powers are described in the EU Bail-In Legislation Schedule, and (b) with respect to the United Kingdom, any
powers of the applicable Resolution Authority under the Bail-In Legislation to cancel, reduce, modify or change the form of a liability of any
UK Financial Institution or any contract or instrument under which that liability arises, to convert all or part of that liability into shares,
securities or obligations of that person or any other person, to provide that any such contract or instrument is to have effect as if a right had
been exercised under it or to suspend any obligation in respect of that liability or any of the powers under that Bail-In Legislation that are
related to or ancillary to any of those powers.
1.03
Other Interpretive Provisions. With reference to this Agreement and each other Loan Document, unless otherwise specified
herein or in such other Loan Document:
(a)
The definitions of terms herein shall apply equally to the singular and plural forms of the terms defined. Any capitalized terms
used herein but not defined herein that are defined in the UCC shall have the respective meanings assigned to such terms in the UCC.
Whenever the context may require, any pronoun shall include the corresponding masculine, feminine and neuter forms. The words “include,”
“includes” and “including” shall be deemed to be followed by the phrase “without limitation.” The word “will” shall be construed to have the
same meaning and effect as the word “shall.” Unless the context requires otherwise, (i) any definition of or reference to any agreement,
instrument or other document (including any Organization Document) shall be construed as referring to such agreement, instrument or other
document as from time to time amended, supplemented or otherwise modified (subject to any restrictions on such amendments, supplements or
modifications set forth herein or in any other Loan Document), (ii) any reference herein to any Person shall be construed to include such
Person’s successors and assigns, (iii) the words “hereto,” “herein,” “hereof” and “hereunder,” and words of similar import when used in any
Loan Document, shall be construed to refer to such Loan Document in its entirety and not to any particular provision thereof, (iv) all references
in a Loan Document to Articles, Sections, Exhibits and Schedules shall be construed to refer to Articles and Sections of, and Exhibits and
Schedules to, the Loan Document in which such references appear, (v) any reference to any law shall include all statutory and regulatory
provisions consolidating, amending, replacing or interpreting such law and any reference to any law or regulation shall, unless otherwise
specified, refer to such law or regulation as amended, modified or supplemented from time to time, and (vi) the words “asset” and “property”
shall be construed to have the same meaning and effect and to refer to any and all tangible and intangible assets and properties, including cash,
securities, accounts and contract rights.
(b)
In the computation of periods of time from a specified date to a later specified date, the word “from” means “from and
including;” the words “to” and “until” each mean “to but excluding;” and the word “through” means “to and including.”
(c)
Section headings herein and in the other Loan Documents are included for convenience of reference only and shall not affect
the interpretation of this Agreement or any other Loan Document.
(d)
Any reference herein to a merger, transfer, consolidation, amalgamation, consolidation, assignment, sale, disposition or
transfer, or similar term, shall be deemed to apply to a division of or by a limited liability company, or an allocation of assets to a series of a
limited liability company (or the unwinding of such a division or allocation), as if it were a merger, transfer, consolidation, amalgamation,
consolidation, assignment, sale, disposition or transfer, or similar term, as applicable, to, of or with a separate Person. Any division of a limited
liability company shall constitute a separate Person hereunder (and each division of any limited liability company that is a Subsidiary, joint
venture or any other like term shall also constitute such a Person or entity).
1.04
Accounting Terms.
(a)
Generally. All accounting terms not specifically or completely defined herein shall be construed in conformity with, and all
financial data (including financial ratios and other financial
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calculations) required to be submitted pursuant to this Agreement shall be prepared in conformity with, GAAP applied on a consistent basis, as
in effect from time to time, applied in a manner consistent with that used in preparing the Audited Financial Statements, except as otherwise
specifically prescribed herein. Notwithstanding the foregoing, for purposes of determining compliance with any covenant (including the
computation of any financial covenant) contained herein, Indebtedness of the Company and its Subsidiaries shall be deemed to be carried at
100% of the outstanding principal amount thereof, and the effects of FASB ASC 825 and FASB ASC 470-20 on financial liabilities shall be
disregarded. Any additions to or exclusions from the computation of any financial item based upon FASB ASC 825 or FASB ASC 470-20 shall
be detailed on the Compliance Certificate delivered pursuant to Section 6.02(a).
(b)
Changes in GAAP. If at any time any change in GAAP would affect the computation of any financial ratio or requirement set
forth in any Loan Document, and either the Company or the Required Lenders shall so request, the Administrative Agent, the Required Lenders
and the Company shall negotiate in good faith to amend such ratio or requirement to preserve the original intent thereof in light of such change
in GAAP (subject to the approval of the Required Lenders); provided that, until so amended, (i) such ratio or requirement shall continue to be
computed in accordance with GAAP prior to such change therein and (ii) the Company shall provide to the Administrative Agent and the
Lenders financial statements and other documents required under this Agreement or as reasonably requested hereunder setting forth a
reconciliation between calculations of such ratio or requirement made before and after giving effect to such change in GAAP. Notwithstanding
anything else set forth herein, (i) any lease that was or would have been treated as an operating lease under GAAP as in effect on the Closing
Date that would become or be treated as a capital lease or finance lease solely as a result of a change in GAAP after the Closing Date shall
always be treated as an operating lease for all purposes and at all times under this Agreement and (ii) the determination of whether a lease is to
be treated as an operating lease, on the one hand, or capital lease or finance lease, on the other hand, shall be made without giving effect to any
change in accounting for leases pursuant to GAAP resulting from the implementation of Financial Accounting Standards Board ASU No. 2016-
02, Leases (Topic 842), to the extent such adoption would require treating any lease (or similar arrangement conveying the right to use) as a
capital lease or finance lease where such lease (or similar arrangement) would not have been required to be so treated under GAAP as in effect
on December 31, 2018; provided that, upon the request of the Administrative Agent, the Company shall nonetheless provide to the
Administrative Agent and the Lenders financial statements and other documents required under this Agreement or as reasonably requested
hereunder setting forth a reconciliation between calculations of such ratio or requirement made before and after giving effect to such change in
GAAP.
(c)
Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities. All references herein to consolidated financial statements of the Company and its
Subsidiaries or to the determination of any amount for the Company and its Subsidiaries on a consolidated basis or any similar reference shall,
in each case, be deemed to include each variable interest entity that the Company is required to consolidate pursuant to FASB ASC 810 as if
such variable interest entity were a Subsidiary as defined herein.
(d)
Pro Forma Treatment of Acquisitions and Dispositions. Consolidated EBITDAR will be calculated after giving pro forma
effect to any Material Dispositions or Material Acquisitions occurring during the relevant period, or after the relevant period and on or prior to
the date of determination, as if such dispositions or acquisitions occurred on the first day of such period, and which may include such
adjustments as are permitted under Regulation S-X of the SEC; provided that any such pro forma adjustment of Consolidated EBITDAR shall
not result in an increase of more than 10% of Consolidated EBITDAR prior to such adjustment (the “10% EBITDAR Cap”), unless (a) the
Company provides to the Administrative Agent (i) the supporting calculations for such adjustment and (ii) such other information as the
Administrative Agent may reasonably request to determine the accuracy of such calculations, or (b) the Administrative Agent (in its sole
discretion) otherwise consents to such increase in excess of the 10% EBITDAR Cap.
If the calculation of Consolidated EBITDAR for any period gives pro forma effect to any disposition or acquisition, the other elements
of the Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio and Consolidated Total Lease Adjusted Leverage Ratio will also be calculated after giving
pro forma effect to such acquisition or disposition, provided that if the pro forma adjustment of Consolidated EBITDAR
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resulting from such disposition or acquisition is limited as a result of the 10% EBITDAR Cap, then the pro forma adjustment to any other
element of the Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio or the Consolidated Total Lease Adjusted Leverage Ratio, as applicable, will
likewise be limited on a proportional basis so that the amount of any other adjustment will be reduced by the same percentage as the reduction
in the amount of adjustment to Consolidated EBITDAR, and provided further, in any event, that any such pro forma adjustment of the
numerator of the Consolidated Total Lease Adjusted Leverage Ratio (or the denominator of the Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio)
will not result in a decrease of more than 10% to the amount of such numerator (or denominator) prior to such adjustment (the “Applicable 10%
Cap”) unless (A) the Company provides to the Administrative Agent (1) the supporting calculations for such adjustment and (2) such other
information as the Administrative Agent may reasonably request to determine the accuracy of such calculations, or (B) the Administrative
Agent (in its sole discretion) otherwise consents to such decrease in excess of the Applicable 10% Cap. If in connection with any Material
Acquisition, the Company or any Subsidiary acquires associated real estate, eliminating any leases on the real estate being acquired or any
leases of a Subsidiary being acquired, then the rent associated with those leases will not be included in the numerator of the Consolidated Total
Lease Adjusted Leverage Ratio.
(e)
Rounding. Any financial ratios required to be maintained by the Company pursuant to this Agreement shall be calculated by
dividing the appropriate component by the other component, carrying the result to one place more than the number of places by which such
ratio is expressed herein and rounding the result up or down to the nearest number (with a rounding-up if there is no nearest number).
1.05
Times of Day. Unless otherwise specified, all references herein to times of day shall be references to Eastern time (daylight or
standard, as applicable).
1.06
Interest Rates. The Administrative Agent and the Lenders do not warrant, nor accept responsibility, nor shall the
Administrative Agent or any of the Lenders have any liability with respect to the administration, submission or any other matter related to
Daily Simple SOFR or any other reference rate referred to herein or with respect to any rate (including, for the avoidance of doubt, the selection
of such rate and any related spread or other adjustment) that is an alternative or replacement for or successor to any of such rate (including,
without limitation, any Successor Rate) (or any component of any of the foregoing) or the effect of any of the foregoing, or of any Conforming
Changes. The Administrative Agent and its affiliates or other related entities may engage in transactions or other activities that affect any
reference rate referred to herein, or any alternative, successor or replacement rate (including, without limitation, any Successor Rate) (or any
component of any of the foregoing) or any related spread or other adjustments thereto, in each case, in a manner adverse to the Borrowers. The
Administrative Agent may select information sources or services in its reasonable discretion to ascertain any reference rate referred to herein or
any alternative, successor or replacement rate (including, without limitation, any Successor Rate) (or any component of any of the foregoing),
in each case pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, and shall have no liability to the Borrowers, any Lender or any other person or entity for
damages of any kind, including direct or indirect, special, punitive, incidental or consequential damages, costs, losses or expenses (whether in
tort, contract or otherwise and whether at law or in equity), for any error or other action or omission related to or affecting the selection,
determination, or calculation of any rate (or component thereof) provided by any such information source or service. With respect to the Daily
Simple SOFR Published Rate or Daily Simple SOFR, the Administrative Agent will have the right to make Conforming Changes from time to
time and, notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein or in any other Loan Document, any amendments implementing such Conforming
Changes will become effective without any further action or consent of any other party to this Agreement or any other Loan Document;
provided that, with respect to any such amendment effected, the Administrative Agent shall post each such amendment implementing such
Conforming Changes to the Borrowers and the Lenders reasonably promptly after such amendment becomes effective.
1.07
Letter of Credit Amounts. Unless otherwise specified herein, the amount of a Letter of Credit at any time shall be deemed to
be the stated amount of such Letter of Credit in effect at such
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time; provided, however, that with respect to any Letter of Credit that, by its terms or the terms of any Issuer Document related thereto,
provides for one or more automatic increases in the stated amount thereof, the amount of such Letter of Credit shall be deemed to be the
maximum stated amount of such Letter of Credit after giving effect to all such increases, whether or not such maximum stated amount is in
effect at such time.
1.08
Limited Condition Acquisition. In the event that the Company notifies the Administrative Agent in writing that any proposed
Acquisition is a Limited Condition Acquisition and that the Company wishes to test the conditions to such Limited Condition Acquisition and
the availability of the Indebtedness incurred in connection with such Limited Condition Acquisition in accordance with this Section, then,
notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein or in any other Loan Document, the following provisions shall apply:
(a)
any condition to such Limited Condition Acquisition or such Indebtedness that requires that no Default or Event of Default
shall have occurred and be continuing at the time of such Acquisition or the incurrence of such Indebtedness, shall be satisfied if (i) no Default
or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing at the time of the execution of the definitive purchase agreement, merger agreement
or other acquisition agreement governing such Limited Condition Acquisition and (ii) no Specified Event of Default shall have occurred and be
continuing both immediately before and immediately after giving effect to such Limited Condition Acquisition and the incurrence of such
Indebtedness;
(b)
any condition to such Limited Condition Acquisition or such Indebtedness that the representations and warranties in this
Agreement and the other Loan Documents shall be true and correct at the time of such Acquisition or the incurrence of such Indebtedness shall
be subject to customary “SunGard” or other customary applicable “certain funds” conditionality provisions (including, without limitation, a
condition that the representations and warranties under the relevant agreements relating to such Limited Condition Acquisition as are material
to the Lenders providing such Indebtedness shall be true and correct, but only to the extent that the Company or its applicable Subsidiary has
the right to terminate its obligations under such agreement as a result of a breach of such representations and warranties or the failure of those
representations and warranties to be true and correct), so long as (i) all representations and warranties in this Agreement and the other Loan
Documents are true and correct in all material respects (or in all respects in the case of any representation and warranty qualified by materiality
or Material Adverse Effect) at the time of execution of the definitive purchase agreement, merger agreement or other acquisition agreement
governing such Acquisition and (ii) all Specified Representations are true and correct both immediately before and immediately after giving
effect to such Limited Condition Acquisition and the incurrence of such Indebtedness;
(c)
any financial ratio test or condition to such Limited Condition Acquisition or the incurrence of such Indebtedness, may upon
the written election of the Company delivered to the Administrative Agent prior to the execution of the definitive agreement for such Limited
Condition Acquisition, be tested either (i) upon the execution of the definitive agreement with respect to such Limited Condition Acquisition or
(ii) upon the consummation of the Limited Condition Acquisition and related incurrence of Indebtedness, in each case, after giving effect to the
relevant Limited Condition Acquisition and related incurrence of Indebtedness, on a pro forma basis; provided that the failure to deliver a
notice under this Section 1.08(c) prior to the date of execution of the definitive agreement for such Limited Condition Acquisition shall be
deemed an election to test the applicable financial ratio under subclause (ii) of this Section 1.08(c); and
(d)
if the Company has made an election with respect to any Limited Condition Acquisition to test a financial ratio test or
condition at the time specified in clause (c)(i) of this Section, then in connection with any subsequent calculation of any ratio or basket during
the period commencing on the relevant date of execution of the definitive agreement with respect to such Limited Condition Acquisition until
the earlier of (i) the date on which such Limited Condition Acquisition is consummated or (ii) the date that the definitive agreement for such
Limited Condition Acquisition is terminated or expires without consummation of such Limited Condition Acquisition, any such ratio or basket
shall be required to be satisfied assuming such Limited Condition Acquisition and other transactions in connection therewith (including the
incurrence or assumption of Indebtedness) have not been consummated.
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The foregoing provisions shall apply with similar effect during the pendency of multiple Limited Condition Acquisitions such that each
of the possible scenarios is separately tested. For the avoidance of doubt, any election (or any portion thereof) made pursuant to this Section
may be rescinded by the Company prior to the consummation of such Limited Condition Acquisition or incurrence of such Indebtedness and in
such case the conditions applicable to such Acquisition or incurrence of Indebtedness shall be tested without giving effect to this Section 1.08.
ARTICLE II. THE COMMITMENTS AND CREDIT EXTENSIONS
2.01
Revolving Committed Loans. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, each Revolving Lender severally agrees to
make loans (each such loan, a “Revolving Committed Loan”) to the Company from time to time, on any Business Day during the Availability
Period, in an aggregate amount not to exceed at any time outstanding the amount of such Revolving Lender’s Revolving Commitment;
provided, however, that after giving effect to any Revolving Committed Borrowing, (a) the Total Revolving Outstandings shall not exceed the
lesser of the Aggregate Revolving Commitments or the Revolving Borrowing Base, and (b) the aggregate Outstanding Amount of the
Revolving Committed Loans of any Revolving Lender, plus such Lender’s Applicable Revolving Percentage of the Outstanding Amount of all
L/C Obligations, plus such Lender’s Applicable Revolving Percentage of the Outstanding Amount of all Revolving Swing Line Loans shall not
exceed such Lender’s Revolving Commitment. Within the limits of each Lender’s Revolving Commitment, and subject to the other terms and
conditions hereof, the Company may borrow under this Section 2.01, prepay under Section 2.13, and reborrow under this Section 2.01.
Revolving Committed Loans may be Base Rate Loans or Daily Simple SOFR Loans, as further provided herein.
2.02
Borrowings, Conversions and Continuations of Revolving Committed Loans.
(a)
Each Revolving Committed Borrowing and each conversion of Revolving Committed Loans from one Type to the other, shall
be made upon the Company’s irrevocable notice to the Administrative Agent, which may be given by (A) telephone, or (B) a Revolving
Committed Loan Notice; provided that any telephonic notice must be confirmed promptly by delivery to the Administrative Agent of a
Revolving Committed Loan Notice. Each such Revolving Committed Loan Notice must be received by the Administrative Agent not later than
1:00 p.m. (i) one Business Day prior to the requested date of any Revolving Borrowing of Daily Simple SOFR Committed Loans or of any
conversion of Daily Simple SOFR Committed Loans to Base Rate Committed Loans, and (ii) one Business Day prior to the requested date of
any Borrowing of Base Rate Committed Loans. Each Borrowing of, conversion to or continuation of Daily Simple SOFR Committed Loans
shall be in a principal amount of $5,000,000 or a whole multiple of $1,000,000 in excess thereof. Except as provided in Sections 2.03(c) and
2.04(c), each Borrowing of or conversion to Base Rate Committed Loans shall be in a principal amount of $500,000 or a whole multiple of
$100,000 in excess thereof. Each Revolving Committed Loan Notice shall specify (i) whether the Company is requesting a Revolving
Committed Borrowing or a conversion of Revolving Committed Loans from one Type to the other, (ii) the requested date of the Borrowing or
conversion, as the case may be (which shall be a Business Day), (iii) the principal amount of Revolving Committed Loans to be borrowed,
converted or continued, and (iv) the Type of Revolving Committed Loans to be borrowed or to which existing Revolving Committed Loans are
to be converted. If the Company fails to provide a timely Revolving Committed Loan Notice requesting a conversion of Daily Simple SOFR
Loans to Base Rate Loans, such Loans shall, subject to Article III, continue as Daily Simple SOFR Loans. If the Company fails to specify a
Type of Revolving Committed Loan in a Revolving Committed Loan Notice, then the applicable Revolving Committed Loans shall, subject to
Article III, be made as, or converted to, Daily Simple SOFR Loans.
(b)
Following receipt of a Revolving Committed Loan Notice, the Administrative Agent shall promptly notify each Revolving
Lender of the amount of its Applicable Revolving Percentage of the applicable Revolving Committed Loans. Each Lender shall make the
amount of its Revolving Committed Loan available to the Administrative Agent in immediately available funds at the Administrative Agent’s
Office not later than 1:00 p.m. on the Business Day specified in the applicable Revolving Committed Loan Notice. Upon satisfaction of the
applicable conditions set forth in Section 4.02 (and, if such Borrowing is an initial Credit Extension, Section 4.01), the Administrative Agent
shall make all funds so
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received available to the Company in like funds as received by the Administrative Agent by crediting the account of the Company on the books
of Bank of America with the amount of such funds; provided, however, that if, on the date the Revolving Committed Loan Notice with respect
to such Borrowing is given by the Company, there are L/C Borrowings outstanding, then the proceeds of such Borrowing, first, shall be applied
to the payment in full of any such L/C Borrowings, and second, shall be made available to the Company as provided above.
2.03
Letters of Credit.
(a)
General. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, in addition to the Revolving Loans provided for in Section 2.01,
the Company may request any L/C Issuer, in reliance on the agreements of the Revolving Lenders set forth in this Section 2.03, to issue, at any
time and from time to time during the Availability Period, Letters of Credit denominated in Dollars for its own account or the account of any of
its Subsidiaries in such form as is acceptable to the Administrative Agent and such L/C Issuer in its reasonable determination. Letters of Credit
issued hereunder shall constitute utilization of the Revolving Commitments.
(b)
Notice of Issuance, Amendment, Extension, Reinstatement or Renewal. To request the issuance of a Letter of Credit (or the
amendment of the terms and conditions, extension of the terms and conditions, extension of the expiration date, or reinstatement of amounts
paid, or renewal of an outstanding Letter of Credit), the Company shall deliver (or transmit by electronic communication, if arrangements for
doing so have been approved by the applicable L/C Issuer) to the applicable L/C Issuer and to the Administrative Agent not later than 11:00
a.m. at least two Business Days (or such later date and time as the Administrative Agent and such L/C Issuer may agree in a particular instance
in their sole discretion) prior to the proposed issuance date or date of amendment, as the case may be a notice requesting the issuance of a
Letter of Credit, or identifying the Letter of Credit to be amended, extended, reinstated or renewed, and specifying the date of issuance,
amendment, extension, reinstatement or renewal (which shall be a Business Day), the date on which such Letter of Credit is to expire (which
shall comply with clause (d) of this Section 2.03), the amount of such Letter of Credit, the name and address of the beneficiary thereof, the
purpose and nature of the requested Letter of Credit and such other information as shall be necessary to prepare, amend, extend, reinstate or
renew such Letter of Credit. If requested by the applicable L/C Issuer, the Company also shall submit a letter of credit application and
reimbursement agreement on such L/C Issuer’s standard form in connection with any request for a Letter of Credit. In the event of any
inconsistency between the terms and conditions of this Agreement and the terms and conditions of any form of letter of credit application and
reimbursement agreement or other agreement submitted by the Company to, or entered into by the Company with, an L/C Issuer relating to any
Letter of Credit, the terms and conditions of this Agreement shall control.
If the Company so requests in any applicable Letter of Credit Application (or the amendment of an outstanding Letter of Credit), the
applicable L/C Issuer may, in its sole discretion, agree to issue a Letter of Credit that has automatic extension provisions (each, an “Auto-
Extension Letter of Credit”); provided that any such Auto-Extension Letter of Credit shall permit such L/C Issuer to prevent any such extension
at least once in each twelve-month period (commencing with the date of issuance of such Letter of Credit) by giving prior notice to the
beneficiary thereof not later than a day (the “Non-Extension Notice Date”) in each such twelve-month period to be agreed upon by the
Company and the applicable L/C Issuer at the time such Letter of Credit is issued. Unless otherwise directed by the applicable L/C Issuer, the
Company shall not be required to make a specific request to such L/C Issuer for any such extension. Once an Auto-Extension Letter of Credit
has been issued, the Revolving Lenders shall be deemed to have authorized (but may not require) the applicable L/C Issuer to permit the
extension of such Letter of Credit at any time to an expiration date not later than the date permitted pursuant to Section 2.03(d); provided, that
such L/C Issuer shall not (i) permit any such extension if (A) such L/C Issuer has determined that it would not be permitted, or would have no
obligation, at such time to issue such Letter of Credit in its extended form under the terms hereof (except that the expiration date may be
extended to a date that is no more than one year from the then-current expiration date) or (B) it has received notice (which may be in writing or
by telephone (if promptly confirmed in writing)) on or before
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the day that is seven Business Days before the Non-Extension Notice Date from the Administrative Agent that the Required Lenders have
elected not to permit such extension or (ii) be obligated to permit such extension if it has received notice (which may be in writing or by
telephone (if promptly confirmed in writing)) on or before the day that is seven Business Days before the Non-Extension Notice Date from the
Administrative Agent, any Revolving Lender or the Company that one or more of the applicable conditions set forth in Section 4.02 is not then
satisfied, and in each such case directing such L/C Issuer not to permit such extension.
(c)
Limitations on Amounts, Issuance and Amendment. A Letter of Credit shall be issued, amended, extended, reinstated or
renewed only if (and upon issuance, amendment, extension, reinstatement or renewal of each Letter of Credit the Company shall be deemed to
represent and warrant that), after giving effect to such issuance, amendment, extension, reinstatement or renewal (i) the Total Revolving
Outstandings shall not exceed the lesser of the Aggregate Revolving Commitments or the Revolving Borrowing Base, (i) the Total
Outstandings shall not exceed the Aggregate Commitments, (ii) the aggregate amount of the outstanding Letters of Credit issued by any L/C
Issuer shall not exceed its L/C Commitment, (iii) the aggregate Outstanding Amount of the Revolving Committed Loans of any Revolving
Lender, plus such Revolving Lender’s Applicable Revolving Percentage of the Outstanding Amount of all L/C Obligations, plus such
Revolving Lender’s Applicable Revolving Percentage of the Outstanding Amount of all Revolving Swing Line Loans shall not exceed such
Revolving Lender’s Revolving Commitment and (iv) the aggregate L/C Obligations shall not exceed the Letter of Credit Sublimit.
(i)
No L/C Issuer shall be under any obligation to issue any Letter of Credit if:
(ii)
(A) any order, judgment or decree of any Governmental Authority or arbitrator shall by its terms purport to
enjoin or restrain such L/C Issuer from issuing the Letter of Credit, or any Law applicable to such L/C Issuer or any
request or directive (whether or not having the force of law) from any Governmental Authority with jurisdiction over
such L/C Issuer shall prohibit, or request that such L/C Issuer refrain from, the issuance of letters of credit generally or
the Letter of Credit in particular or shall impose upon such L/C Issuer with respect to the Letter of Credit any
restriction, reserve or capital requirement (for which such L/C Issuer is not otherwise compensated hereunder) not in
effect on the Closing Date, or shall impose upon such L/C Issuer any unreimbursed loss, cost or expense which was not
applicable on the Closing Date and which such L/C Issuer in good faith deems material to it;
(iii)
(B) the issuance of such Letter of Credit would violate one or more policies of such L/C Issuer applicable to
letters of credit generally;
(iv)
(C) except as otherwise agreed by the Administrative Agent and such L/C Issuer, the Letter of Credit is in an
initial stated amount less than $100,000;
(v)
(D) any Lender is at that time a Defaulting Lender, unless such L/C Issuer has entered into arrangements,
including the delivery of Cash Collateral, satisfactory to such L/C Issuer (in its sole discretion) with the Company or
such Lender to eliminate such L/C Issuer’s actual or potential Fronting Exposure (after giving effect to Section 2.27(a)
(iv)) with respect to the Defaulting Lender arising from either the Letter of Credit then proposed to be issued or that
Letter of Credit and all other L/C Obligations as to which such L/C Issuer has actual or potential Fronting Exposure, as
it may elect in its sole discretion; or
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(d)
(E) the Letter of Credit contains any provisions for automatic reinstatement of the stated amount after any
drawing thereunder.
(i)
No L/C Issuer shall be under any obligation to amend any Letter of Credit if (A) such L/C Issuer would have no
obligation at such time to issue the Letter of Credit in its amended form under the terms hereof, or (B) the beneficiary of the Letter of
Credit does not accept the proposed amendment to the Letter of Credit.
(e)
Expiration Date. Each Letter of Credit shall have a stated expiration date no later than the earlier of (i) the date twelve months
after the date of the issuance of such Letter of Credit (or, in the case of any extension of the expiration date thereof, whether automatic or by
amendment, twelve months after the then-current expiration date of such Letter of Credit) and (ii) the Letter of Credit Expiration Date.
(f)
Participations. By the issuance of a Letter of Credit (or an amendment to a Letter of Credit increasing the amount or extending
the expiration date thereof), and without any further action on the part of the applicable L/C Issuer or the Lenders, such L/C Issuer hereby
grants to each Revolving Lender, and each Revolving Lender hereby acquires from such L/C Issuer, a participation in such Letter of Credit
equal to such Revolving Lender’s Applicable Revolving Percentage of the aggregate amount available to be drawn under such Letter of Credit.
Each Revolving Lender acknowledges and agrees that its obligation to acquire participations pursuant to this clause (e) in respect of Letters of
Credit is absolute, unconditional and irrevocable and shall not be affected by any circumstance whatsoever, including any amendment,
extension, reinstatement or renewal of any Letter of Credit or the occurrence and continuance of a Default or reduction or termination of the
Revolving Commitments.
In consideration and in furtherance of the foregoing, each Revolving Lender hereby absolutely, unconditionally and irrevocably agrees
to pay to the Administrative Agent, for account of the applicable L/C Issuer, such Revolving Lender’s Applicable Revolving Percentage of each
L/C Disbursement made by an L/C Issuer not later than 1:00 p.m. on the Business Day specified in the notice provided by the Administrative
Agent to the Lenders pursuant to Section 2.03(f) until such L/C Disbursement is reimbursed by the Company or at any time after any
reimbursement payment is required to be refunded to the Company for any reason, including after the Maturity Date. Such payment shall be
made without any offset, abatement, withholding or reduction whatsoever. Each such payment shall be made in the same manner as provided in
Section 2.02 with respect to Revolving Loans made by such Revolving Lender (and Section 2.02 shall apply, mutatis mutandis, to the payment
obligations of the Required Lenders), and the Administrative Agent shall promptly pay to the applicable L/C Issuer the amounts so received by
it from the Revolving Lenders. Promptly following receipt by the Administrative Agent of any payment from the Company pursuant to Section
2.03(f), the Administrative Agent shall distribute such payment to the applicable L/C Issuer or, to the extent that the Revolving Lenders have
made payments pursuant to this clause (e) to reimburse such L/C Issuer, then to such Revolving Lenders and such L/C Issuer as their interests
may appear. Any payment made by a Revolving Lender pursuant to this clause (e) to reimburse an L/C Issuer for any L/C Disbursement shall
not constitute a Loan and shall not relieve the Company of its obligation to reimburse such L/C Disbursement.
Each Revolving Lender further acknowledges and agrees that its participation in each Letter of Credit will be automatically adjusted to
reflect such Revolving Lender’s Applicable Revolving Percentage of the aggregate amount available to be drawn under such Letter of Credit at
each time such Revolving Lender’s Revolving Commitment is amended pursuant to the operation of Section 2.22 or 2.23, as a result of an
assignment in accordance with Section 10.06 or otherwise pursuant to this Agreement.
If any Revolving Lender fails to make available to the Administrative Agent for the account of the applicable L/C Issuer any amount
required to be paid by such Revolving Lender pursuant to the
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foregoing provisions of this Section 2.03(e), then, without limiting the other provisions of this Agreement, the applicable L/C Issuer shall be
entitled to recover from such Revolving Lender (acting through the Administrative Agent), on demand, such amount with interest thereon for
the period from the date such payment is required to the date on which such payment is immediately available to such L/C Issuer at a rate per
annum equal to the greater of the Federal Funds Rate and a rate determined by the applicable L/C Issuer in accordance with banking industry
rules on interbank compensation, plus any administrative, processing or similar fees customarily charged by such L/C Issuer in connection with
the foregoing. If such Revolving Lender pays such amount (with interest and fees as aforesaid), the amount so paid shall constitute such
Revolving Lender’s Revolving Committed Loan included in the relevant Revolving Committed Borrowing or L/C Advance in respect of the
relevant L/C Borrowing, as the case may be. A certificate of the applicable L/C Issuer submitted to any Revolving Lender (through the
Administrative Agent) with respect to any amounts owing under this clause shall be conclusive absent manifest error.
(g)
Reimbursement. If an L/C Issuer shall make any L/C Disbursement in respect of a Letter of Credit, the Company shall
reimburse such L/C Issuer in respect of such L/C Disbursement by paying to the Administrative Agent an amount equal to such L/C
Disbursement not later than 12:00 noon on (i) the Business Day that the Company receives notice of such L/C Disbursement, if such notice is
received prior to 10:00 a.m. or (ii) the Business Day immediately following the day that the Company receives such notice, if such notice is not
received prior to such time, provided that, if such L/C Disbursement is not less than $1,000,000, the Company may, subject to the conditions to
borrowing set forth herein, request in accordance with Section 2.02 or Section 2.04 that such payment be financed with a Revolving Borrowing
of Daily Simple SOFR Loans or Revolving Swing Line Loan in an equivalent amount and, to the extent so financed, the Company’s obligation
to make such payment shall be discharged and replaced by the resulting Revolving Borrowing of Daily Simple SOFR Loans or Revolving
Swing Line Loan. If the Company fails to make such payment when due, the Administrative Agent shall notify each Revolving Lender of the
applicable L/C Disbursement, the payment then due from the Company in respect thereof (the “Unreimbursed Amount”) and such Revolving
Lender’s Applicable Revolving Percentage thereof. In such event, the Company shall be deemed to have requested a Revolving Committed
Borrowing of Daily Simple SOFR Loans to be disbursed on the date of payment by the applicable L/C Issuer under a Letter of Credit in an
amount equal to the Unreimbursed Amount, without regard to the minimum and multiples specified in Section 2.02 for the principal amount of
Base Rate Loans, but subject to the amount of the unutilized portion of the Aggregate Revolving Commitments and the conditions set forth in
Section 4.02 (other than the delivery of a Revolving Committed Loan Notice). Any notice given by any L/C Issuer or the Administrative Agent
pursuant to this Section 2.03(f) may be given by telephone if immediately confirmed in writing; provided that the lack of such an immediate
confirmation shall not affect the conclusiveness or binding effect of such notice.
(h)
Obligations Absolute. The Company’s obligation to reimburse L/C Disbursements as provided in clause (f) of this Section 2.03
shall be absolute, unconditional and irrevocable, and shall be performed strictly in accordance with the terms of this Agreement under any and
all circumstances whatsoever and irrespective of:
(i)
any lack of validity or enforceability of this Agreement, any other Loan Document or any Letter of Credit, or any term
or provision herein or therein;
(ii)
the existence of any claim, counterclaim, setoff, defense or other right that the Company, any Borrower or any
Subsidiary may have at any time against any beneficiary or any transferee of such Letter of Credit (or any Person for whom any such
beneficiary or any such transferee may be acting), any L/C Issuer or any other Person, whether in connection with this Agreement, the
transactions contemplated hereby or by such Letter of Credit or any agreement or instrument relating thereto, or any unrelated
transaction;
(iii)
any draft, demand, certificate or other document presented under a Letter of Credit proving to be forged, fraudulent,
invalid or insufficient in any respect or any statement in such draft or other document being untrue or inaccurate in any respect; or any
loss or delay in the
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transmission or otherwise of any document required in order to make a drawing under such Letter of Credit;
(iv)
waiver by any L/C Issuer of any requirement that exists for such L/C Issuer’s protection and not the protection of the
Borrowers or any waiver by such L/C Issuer which does not in fact materially prejudice the Borrowers;
(v)
honor of a demand for payment presented electronically even if such Letter of Credit requires that demand be in the
form of a draft;
(vi)
any payment made by any L/C Issuer in respect of an otherwise complying item presented after the date specified as
the expiration date of, or the date by which documents must be received under such Letter of Credit if presentation after such date is
authorized by the UCC, the ISP or the UCP, as applicable;
(vii)
any payment by the applicable L/C Issuer under a Letter of Credit against presentation of a draft or other document that
does not comply strictly with the terms of such Letter of Credit; or any payment made by any L/C Issuer under such Letter of Credit to
any Person purporting to be a trustee in bankruptcy, debtor-in-possession, assignee for the benefit of creditors, liquidator, receiver or
other representative of or successor to any beneficiary or any transferee of such Letter of Credit, including any arising in connection
with any proceeding under any Debtor Relief Law; or
(viii)
any other event or circumstance whatsoever, whether or not similar to any of the foregoing, that might, but for the
provisions of this Section 2.03, constitute a legal or equitable discharge of, or provide a right of setoff against, the Company’s, any
Borrower’s or any Subsidiary’s obligations hereunder.
The Company shall promptly examine a copy of each Letter of Credit and each amendment thereto that is delivered to it and, in the
event of any claim of noncompliance with the Company’s instructions or other irregularity, the Company will immediately notify the applicable
L/C Issuer. The Company shall be conclusively deemed to have waived any such claim against each L/C Issuer and its correspondents unless
such notice is given as aforesaid.
None of the Administrative Agent, the Lenders, any L/C Issuer or any of their Related Parties shall have any liability or responsibility
by reason of or in connection with the issuance or transfer of any Letter of Credit by the applicable L/C Issuer or any payment or failure to
make any payment thereunder (irrespective of any of the circumstances referred to in the preceding sentence), or any error, omission,
interruption, loss or delay in transmission or delivery of any draft, notice or other communication under or relating to any Letter of Credit
(including any document required to make a drawing thereunder), any error in interpretation of technical terms, any error in translation or any
consequence arising from causes beyond the control of the applicable L/C Issuer; provided that the foregoing shall not be construed to excuse
an L/C Issuer from liability to the Company to the extent of any direct damages (as opposed to consequential damages, claims in respect of
which are hereby waived by the Company to the extent permitted by applicable Law) suffered by the Company that are caused by such L/C
Issuer’s failure to exercise care when determining whether drafts and other documents presented under a Letter of Credit comply with the terms
thereof. The parties hereto expressly agree that, in the absence of gross negligence or willful misconduct on the part of an L/C Issuer (as finally
determined by a court of competent jurisdiction), an L/C Issuer shall be deemed to have exercised care in each such determination, and that:
(ix)
an L/C Issuer may replace a purportedly lost, stolen, or destroyed original Letter of Credit or missing amendment
thereto with a certified true copy marked as such or waive a requirement for its presentation;
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(x)
an L/C Issuer may accept documents that appear on their face to be in substantial compliance with the terms of a Letter
of Credit without responsibility for further investigation, regardless of any notice or information to the contrary, and may make
payment upon presentation of documents that appear on their face to be in substantial compliance with the terms of such Letter of
Credit and without regard to any non-documentary condition in such Letter of Credit;
(xi)
an L/C Issuer shall have the right, in its sole discretion, to decline to accept such documents and to make such payment
if such documents are not in strict compliance with the terms of such Letter of Credit; and
(xii)
this sentence shall establish the standard of care to be exercised by an L/C Issuer when determining whether drafts and
other documents presented under a Letter of Credit comply with the terms thereof (and the parties hereto hereby waive, to the extent
permitted by applicable Law, any standard of care inconsistent with the foregoing).
Without limiting the foregoing, none of the Administrative Agent, the Lenders, any L/C Issuer or any of their Related Parties shall have
any liability or responsibility by reason of (i) any presentation that includes forged or fraudulent documents or that is otherwise affected by the
fraudulent, bad faith, or illegal conduct of the beneficiary or other Person, (ii) an L/C Issuer declining to take-up documents and make payment
(A) against documents that are fraudulent, forged, or for other reasons by which that it is entitled not to honor or (B) following the Company’s
waiver of discrepancies with respect to such documents or request for honor of such documents or (iii) an L/C Issuer retaining proceeds of a
Letter of Credit based on an apparently applicable attachment order, blocking regulation, or third-party claim notified to such L/C Issuer.
(i)
Applicability of ISP and UCP; Limitation of Liability. Unless otherwise expressly agreed by the applicable L/C Issuer and the
Company when a Letter of Credit is issued by it (including any such agreement applicable to an Existing Letter of Credit), the rules of the ISP
shall apply to each standby Letter of Credit. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no L/C Issuer shall be responsible to the Company, any Borrower
or any Subsidiary for, and no L/C Issuer’s rights and remedies against the Company, any Borrower or any Subsidiary shall be impaired by, any
action or inaction of any L/C Issuer required or permitted under any law, order, or practice that is required or permitted to be applied to any
Letter of Credit or this Agreement, including the Law or any order of a jurisdiction where any L/C Issuer or the beneficiary is located, the
practice stated in the ISP or UCP, as applicable, or in the decisions, opinions, practice statements, or official commentary of the ICC Banking
Commission, the Bankers Association for Finance and Trade - International Financial Services Association (BAFT-IFSA), or the Institute of
International Banking Law & Practice, whether or not any Letter of Credit chooses such law or practice.
(j)
each L/C Issuer shall act on behalf of the Revolving Lenders with respect to any Letters of Credit issued by it and the
documents associated therewith, and each L/C Issuer shall have all of the benefits and immunities (A) provided to the Administrative Agent in
Article IX with respect to any acts taken or omissions suffered by such L/C Issuer in connection with Letters of Credit issued by it or proposed
to be issued by it and Issuer Documents pertaining to such Letters of Credit as fully as if the term “Administrative Agent” as used in Article IX
included such L/C Issuer with respect to such acts or omissions, and (B) as additionally provided herein with respect to such L/C Issuer.
(k)
Letter of Credit Fees. The Company shall pay to the Administrative Agent for the account of each Revolving Lender in
accordance, subject to Section 2.27, with its Applicable Revolving Percentage a Letter of Credit fee (the “Letter of Credit Fee”) for each Letter
of Credit equal to the Applicable Rate times the daily amount available to be drawn under such Letter of Credit; provided, however, any Letter
of Credit Fees otherwise payable for the account of a Defaulting Lender with respect to any Letter of Credit as to which such Defaulting Lender
has not provided Cash Collateral satisfactory to the applicable L/C Issuer pursuant to this Section 2.03 shall be payable, to the maximum extent
permitted by applicable Law, to the other Lenders in accordance with the upward adjustments in their respective Applicable Revolving
Percentages allocable to such Letter of Credit pursuant to Section 2.27(a)(iv), with the balance of such fee, if any, payable to such L/C Issuer
for its own account. For
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purposes of computing the daily amount available to be drawn under any Letter of Credit, the amount of such Letter of Credit shall be
determined in accordance with Section 1.07. Letter of Credit Fees shall be (i) due and payable on the first Automatic Debit Date after the end of
each March, June, September and December, commencing with the first such date to occur after the issuance of such Letter of Credit, on the
Letter of Credit Expiration Date and thereafter on demand and (ii) computed on a quarterly basis in arrears. If there is any change in the
Applicable Rate during any quarter, the daily amount available to be drawn under each Letter of Credit shall be computed and multiplied by the
Applicable Rate separately for each period during such quarter that such Applicable Rate was in effect. Notwithstanding anything to the
contrary contained herein, upon the request of the Required Lenders, while any Event of Default exists, all Letter of Credit Fees shall accrue at
the Default Rate.
(l)
Fronting Fee and Documentary and Processing Charges Payable to L/C Issuers. The Company shall pay directly to the
applicable L/C Issuer for its own account a fronting fee with respect to each Letter of Credit, at the rate per annum equal to the percentage
separately agreed upon between the Company and such L/C Issuer, computed on the daily amount available to be drawn under such Letter of
Credit on a quarterly basis in arrears. Such fronting fee shall be due and payable on the first Automatic Debit Date after the end of each March,
June, September and December in respect of the most recently-ended quarterly period (or portion thereof, in the case of the first payment),
commencing with the first such date to occur after the issuance of such Letter of Credit, on the Letter of Credit Expiration Date and thereafter
on demand. For purposes of computing the daily amount available to be drawn under any Letter of Credit, the amount of such Letter of Credit
shall be determined in accordance with Section 1.07. In addition, the Company shall pay directly to the applicable L/C Issuer for its own
account the customary issuance, presentation, amendment and other processing fees, and other standard costs and charges, of such L/C Issuer
relating to letters of credit as from time to time in effect. Such customary fees and standard costs and charges are due and payable on demand
and are nonrefundable.
(m)
Disbursement Procedures. The L/C Issuer for any Letter of Credit shall, within the time allowed by applicable Laws or the
specific terms of the Letter of Credit following its receipt thereof, examine all documents purporting to represent a demand for payment under
such Letter of Credit. Such L/C Issuer shall promptly after such examination notify the Administrative Agent and the Company in writing of
such demand for payment if such L/C Issuer has made or will make an L/C Disbursement thereunder; provided that any failure to give or delay
in giving such notice shall not relieve the Company of its obligation to reimburse such L/C Issuer and the Lenders with respect to any such L/C
Disbursement.
(n)
Interim Interest. If the L/C Issuer for any Letter of Credit shall make any L/C Disbursement, then, unless the Company shall
reimburse such L/C Disbursement in full on the date such L/C Disbursement is made, the unpaid amount thereof shall bear interest, for each
day from and including the date such L/C Disbursement is made to but excluding the date that the Company reimburses such L/C
Disbursement, at the rate per annum then applicable to Daily Simple SOFR Loans; provided that if the Company fails to reimburse such L/C
Disbursement when due pursuant to clause (f) of this Section 2.03, then Section 2.16(c) shall apply. Interest accrued pursuant to this clause (m)
shall be for account of such L/C Issuer, except that interest accrued on and after the date of payment by any Lender pursuant to clause (f) of this
Section 2.03 to reimburse such L/C Issuer shall be for account of such Lender to the extent of such payment.
(o)
Replacement of any L/C Issuer . Any L/C Issuer may be replaced at any time by written agreement between the Company, the
Administrative Agent, the replaced L/C Issuer and the successor L/C Issuer. The Administrative Agent shall notify the Lenders of any such
replacement of an L/C Issuer. At the time any such replacement shall become effective, the Company shall pay all unpaid fees accrued for the
account of the replaced L/C Issuer pursuant to Section 2.03(j). From and after the effective date of any such replacement, (i) the successor L/C
Issuer shall have all the rights and obligations of an L/C Issuer under this Agreement with respect to Letters of Credit to be issued by it
thereafter and (ii) references herein to the term “L/C Issuer” shall be deemed to include such successor or any previous L/C Issuer, or such
successor and all previous L/C Issuer, as the context shall require. After the replacement of an L/C Issuer hereunder, the replaced L/C Issuer
shall remain a party hereto and shall continue to have all the rights and obligations of an L/C Issuer under this Agreement with respect to
Letters of Credit issued by it prior to such replacement, but shall not be required to issue additional Letters of Credit.
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(p)
Cash Collateralization. Without limitation of Section 2.26, if any Event of Default shall occur and be continuing, on the
Business Day that the Company receives notice from the Administrative Agent or the Required Lenders (or, if the maturity of the Loans has
been accelerated, Lenders with L/C Obligations representing at least 66-2/3% of the total L/C Obligations) demanding the deposit of Cash
Collateral pursuant to this clause (o), the Borrowers shall immediately deposit into an account established and maintained on the books and
records of the Administrative Agent (the “Collateral Account”) an amount in cash equal to the total L/C Obligations as of such date plus any
accrued and unpaid interest thereon, provided that the obligation to deposit such Cash Collateral shall become effective immediately, and such
deposit shall become immediately due and payable, without demand or other notice of any kind, upon the occurrence of any Event of Default
with respect to any Loan Party described in clause (f) of Section 8.01. Such deposit shall be held by the Administrative Agent as collateral for
the payment and performance of the obligations of the Borrowers under this Agreement.
The Administrative Agent shall have exclusive dominion and control, including the exclusive right of withdrawal, over the Collateral
Account. Other than any interest earned on the investment of such deposits, which investments shall be made at the option and sole discretion
of the Administrative Agent and at the Company’s risk and expense, such deposits shall not bear interest. Interest or profits, if any, on such
investments shall accumulate in the Collateral Account. Moneys in the Collateral Account shall be applied by the Administrative Agent to
reimburse each L/C Issuer for L/C Disbursements for which it has not been reimbursed, together with related fees, costs, and customary
processing charges, and, to the extent not so applied, shall be held for the satisfaction of the reimbursement obligations of the Company for the
L/C Obligations at such time or, if the maturity of the Loans has been accelerated (but subject to the consent of Lenders with L/C Obligations
representing 66-2/3% of the total L/C Obligations), be applied to satisfy other obligations of the Borrowers under this Agreement. If the
Borrowers are required to provide an amount of Cash Collateral hereunder as a result of the occurrence of an Event of Default, such amount (to
the extent not applied as aforesaid) shall be returned to the Borrowers within three Business Days after all Events of Default have been cured or
waived.
(q)
Letters of Credit Issued for Subsidiaries. Notwithstanding that a Letter of Credit issued or outstanding hereunder is in support
of any obligations of, or is for the account of, a Subsidiary, the Company shall be obligated to reimburse, indemnify and compensate the
applicable L/C Issuer hereunder for any and all drawings under such Letter of Credit as if such Letter of Credit had been issues solely for the
account of the Company. The Company irrevocably waives any and all defenses that might otherwise be available to it as a guarantor or surety
of any or all of the obligations of such Subsidiary in respect of such Letter of Credit. The Company hereby acknowledges that the issuance of
Letters of Credit for the account of Subsidiaries inures to the benefit of the Company, and that the Company’s business derives substantial
benefits from the businesses of such Subsidiaries.
(r)
Conflict with Issuer Documents. In the event of any conflict between the terms hereof and the terms of any Issuer Document,
the terms hereof shall control.
2.04
Revolving Swing Line Loans.
(a)
The Revolving Swing Line. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein (and, if a Revolving Autoborrow Agreement is
in effect, in such agreement), the Revolving Swing Line Lender, in reliance upon the agreements of the other Lenders set forth in this Section
2.04, shall make loans (each such loan, a “Revolving Swing Line Loan”) to the Company from time to time on any Business Day during the
Availability Period in an aggregate amount not to exceed at any time outstanding the amount of the Revolving Swing Line Sublimit,
notwithstanding the fact that such Revolving Swing Line Loans, when aggregated with the Applicable Revolving Percentage of the
Outstanding Amount of Revolving Committed Loans and L/C Obligations of the Revolving Lender acting as Revolving Swing Line Lender,
may exceed the amount of such Revolving Lender’s Commitment; provided, however, that (i) after giving effect to any Revolving Swing Line
Loan, (x) the Total Outstandings shall not exceed the Aggregate Commitments, (y) the Total Revolving Outstandings shall not exceed the lesser
of the Aggregate Revolving Commitments or the Revolving Borrowing Base and (z) the aggregate Outstanding Amount of
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the Revolving Committed Loans of any Revolving Lender, plus such Lender’s Applicable Revolving Percentage of the Outstanding Amount of
all L/C Obligations, plus such Lender’s Applicable Revolving Percentage of the Outstanding Amount of all Revolving Swing Line Loans shall
not exceed such Lender’s Revolving Commitment, and (ii) the Revolving Swing Line Lender shall not be under any obligation to make any
such Revolving Swing Line Loan if any Lender is at such time a Defaulting Lender, unless the Revolving Swing Line Lender has entered into
arrangements, including the delivery of Cash Collateral, satisfactory to the Revolving Swing Line Lender (in its sole discretion) with the
Company or such Defaulting Lender to eliminate such Revolving Swing Line Lender’s actual or potential Fronting Exposure (after giving
effect to Section 2.27(a)(iv)) with respect to the Defaulting Lender arising from either the Revolving Swing Line Loan then proposed to be
made or that Revolving Swing Line Loan and all other Revolving Swing Line Loans then outstanding as to which the Revolving Swing Line
Lender has actual or potential Fronting Exposure, as it may elect in its sole discretion; and provided, further, that (subject to the terms of any
Revolving Autoborrow Agreement that may be in effect) the Company shall not use the proceeds of any Revolving Swing Line Loan to
refinance any outstanding Revolving Swing Line Loan. Within the foregoing limits, and subject to the other terms and conditions hereof, the
Company may borrow under this Section 2.04, prepay under Section 2.13, and reborrow under this Section 2.04. Each Revolving Swing Line
Loan may be a Base Rate Loan or a Daily Simple SOFR Loan. Immediately upon the making of a Revolving Swing Line Loan, each Revolving
Lender shall be deemed to, and hereby irrevocably and unconditionally agrees to, purchase from the Revolving Swing Line Lender a risk
participation in such Revolving Swing Line Loan in an amount equal to the product of such Lender’s Applicable Revolving Percentage times
the amount of such Revolving Swing Line Loan.
(b)
At any time a Revolving Autoborrow Agreement is not in effect, each Revolving Swing Line Borrowing and each conversion
of Revolving Swing Line Loans from one type to the other shall be made upon the Company’s irrevocable notice to the Revolving Swing Line
Lender and the Administrative Agent, which may be given by (A) telephone or (B) by a Revolving Swing Line Loan Notice. Each such
Revolving Swing Line Loan Notice must be received by the Revolving Swing Line Lender and the Administrative Agent not later than 1:00
p.m. on the requested borrowing date or date of any conversion of Daily Simple SOFR Loans to Base Rate Loans or of any conversion of Base
Rate Loans to Daily Simple SOFR Loans, and in each case shall specify (i) the amount to be borrowed, which shall be a minimum of $100,000,
(ii) the requested borrowing date, which shall be a Business Day and (iii) the Type of Revolving Swing Line Loan to be borrowed or to which
existing Revolving Swing Line Loans are to be converted. Promptly after receipt by the Revolving Swing Line Lender of any Revolving Swing
Line Loan Notice, the Revolving Swing Line Lender will confirm with the Administrative Agent (by telephone or in writing) that the
Administrative Agent has also received such Revolving Swing Line Loan Notice and, if not, the Revolving Swing Line Lender will notify the
Administrative Agent (by telephone or in writing) of the contents thereof. Unless the Revolving Swing Line Lender has received notice (by
telephone or in writing) from the Administrative Agent (including at the request of any Revolving Lender) prior to 2:00 p.m. on the date of the
proposed Revolving Swing Line Borrowing (A) directing the Revolving Swing Line Lender not to make such Revolving Swing Line Loan as a
result of the limitations set forth in the proviso to the first sentence of Section 2.04(a), or (B) that one or more of the applicable conditions
specified in Article IV is not then satisfied, then, subject to the terms and conditions hereof, the Revolving Swing Line Lender will, not later
than 3:00 p.m. on the borrowing date specified in such Revolving Swing Line Loan Notice, make the amount of its Revolving Swing Line Loan
available to the Company at its office by crediting the account of the Company on the books of the Revolving Swing Line Lender in
immediately available funds. If the Company fails to provide a timely Revolving Swing Line Loan Notice requesting a conversion of Daily
Simple SOFR Loans to Base Rate Loans, such Loans shall, subject to Article III, continue as Daily Simple SOFR Loans. If the Company fails
to specify a Type of Revolving Swing Line Loan in a Revolving Swing Line Loan Notice, then the applicable Revolving Swing Line Loan
shall, subject to Article III, be made as a Daily Simple SOFR Loan.
In order to facilitate the borrowing of Revolving Swing Line Loans, the Company and the Revolving Swing Line Lender may mutually
agree to, and are hereby authorized to, enter into an agreement in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent and
the Revolving Swing Line Lender (the “Revolving Autoborrow Agreement”) providing for the automatic advance by the Revolving Swing Line
Lender of Revolving Swing Line Loans under the conditions set forth in such agreement, which shall be in addition to the conditions set forth
herein (each such advance, a “Revolving
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Autoborrow Advance”); provided that, (i) in no event shall the Company be entitled to Revolving Autoborrow Advances pursuant to a
Revolving Autoborrow Agreement at any time a New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement or a Used Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement is in place
and (ii) the Company may, once per calendar year and upon 30 days advance notice to the Administrative Agent, the Revolving Swing Line
Lender, the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and upon the payment to the
Administrative Agent of a $10,000 fee (which fee may be waived in the sole discretion of the Administrative Agent), alternate between having
a Revolving Autoborrow Agreement, a New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement or a Used Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement in place. At any time a
Revolving Autoborrow Agreement is in effect, the requirements for Revolving Swing Line Borrowings set forth in the immediately preceding
paragraph shall not apply, and all Revolving Swing Line Borrowings shall be made in accordance with the Revolving Autoborrow Agreement,
until the right to such Revolving Swing Line Borrowings is suspended or terminated hereunder or in accordance with the terms of the
Revolving Autoborrow Agreement. Solely for purposes of determining the availability of Revolving Committed Loans (other than Revolving
Committed Loans used to refinance Revolving Swing Line Loans) and for determining the Total Revolving Outstandings in connection with
Section 2.14, at any time during which a Revolving Autoborrow Agreement is in effect, the Outstanding Amount of all Revolving Swing Line
Loans shall be deemed to be the amount of the Revolving Swing Line Sublimit. For purposes of any Revolving Swing Line Borrowing
pursuant to the Revolving Autoborrow Agreement, all references to Bank of America shall be deemed to be a reference to Bank of America, in
its capacity as Revolving Swing Line Lender hereunder.
(c)
Refinancing of Revolving Swing Line Loans.
(i)
The Revolving Swing Line Lender at any time in its sole and absolute discretion may request, on behalf of the
Company (which hereby irrevocably authorizes the Revolving Swing Line Lender to so request on its behalf), that each Revolving
Lender make a Daily Simple SOFR Committed Loan in an amount equal to such Revolving Lender’s Applicable Revolving Percentage
of the amount of Revolving Swing Line Loans then outstanding; provided that (unless a Revolving Autoborrow Agreement is then in
effect) the Revolving Swing Line Lender intends to request each Revolving Lender to make such Daily Simple SOFR Committed
Loans no less frequently than once in any given calendar month. Such request shall be made in writing (which written request shall be
deemed to be a Revolving Committed Loan Notice for purposes hereof) and in accordance with the requirements of Section 2.02,
without regard to the minimum and multiples specified therein for the principal amount of Daily Simple SOFR Loans, but subject to
the unutilized portion of the Aggregate Revolving Commitments and the conditions set forth in Section 4.02. Each Revolving Lender
shall make an amount equal to its Applicable Revolving Percentage of the amount specified in such Revolving Committed Loan Notice
available to the Administrative Agent in immediately available funds (and the Administrative Agent may apply Cash Collateral
available with respect to the applicable Revolving Swing Line Loan) for the account of the Revolving Swing Line Lender at the
Administrative Agent’s Office not later than 1:00 p.m. on the day specified in such Revolving Committed Loan Notice (or, if later, one
Business Day after the Revolving Swing Lender delivers such notice), whereupon, subject to Section 2.04(c)(ii), each Revolving
Lender that so makes funds available shall be deemed to have made a Daily Simple SOFR Committed Loan to the Company in such
amount. The Administrative Agent shall remit the funds so received to the Revolving Swing Line Lender.
(ii)
If for any reason any Revolving Swing Line Loan cannot be refinanced by such a Revolving Committed Borrowing in
accordance with Section 2.04(c)(i), the request for Daily Simple SOFR Revolving Committed Loans submitted by the Revolving
Swing Line Lender as set forth herein shall be deemed to be a request by the Revolving Swing Line Lender that each of the Revolving
Lenders fund its risk participation in the relevant Revolving Swing Line Loan and each Lender’s payment to the Administrative Agent
for the account of the Revolving Swing Line Lender pursuant to Section 2.04(c)(i) shall be deemed payment in respect of such
participation.
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(iii)
If any Revolving Lender fails to make available to the Administrative Agent for the account of the Revolving Swing
Line Lender any amount required to be paid by such Revolving Lender pursuant to the foregoing provisions of this Section 2.04(c) by
the time specified in Section 2.04(c)(i), the Revolving Swing Line Lender shall be entitled to recover from such Revolving Lender
(acting through the Administrative Agent), on demand, such amount with interest thereon for the period from the date such payment is
required to the date on which such payment is immediately available to the Revolving Swing Line Lender at a rate per annum equal to
the greater of the Federal Funds Rate and a rate determined by the Revolving Swing Line Lender in accordance with banking industry
rules on interbank compensation, plus any administrative, processing or similar fees customarily charged by the Revolving Swing Line
Lender in connection with the foregoing. If such Revolving Lender pays such amount (with interest and fees as aforesaid), the amount
so paid shall constitute such Revolving Lender’s Revolving Committed Loan included in the relevant Revolving Committed Borrowing
or funded participation in the relevant Revolving Swing Line Loan, as the case may be. A certificate of the Revolving Swing Line
Lender submitted to any Revolving Lender (through the Administrative Agent) with respect to any amounts owing under this clause
(iii) shall be conclusive absent manifest error.
(iv)
Each Revolving Lender’s obligation to make Revolving Committed Loans or to purchase and fund risk participations
in Revolving Swing Line Loans pursuant to this Section 2.04(c) shall be absolute and unconditional and shall not be affected by any
circumstance, including (A) any setoff, counterclaim, recoupment, defense or other right which such Revolving Lender may have
against the Revolving Swing Line Lender, the Company or any other Person for any reason whatsoever, (B) the occurrence or
continuance of a Default, or (C) any other occurrence, event or condition, whether or not similar to any of the foregoing; provided,
however, that each Revolving Lender’s obligation to make Revolving Committed Loans pursuant to this Section 2.04(c) is subject to
the conditions set forth in Section 4.02. No such funding of risk participations shall relieve or otherwise impair the obligation of the
Company to repay Revolving Swing Line Loans, together with interest as provided herein.
(d)
Repayment of Participations.
(i)
At any time after any Revolving Lender has purchased and funded a risk participation in a Revolving Swing Line
Loan, if the Revolving Swing Line Lender receives any payment on account of such Revolving Swing Line Loan, the Revolving Swing
Line Lender will distribute to such Revolving Lender its Applicable Revolving Percentage of such payment (appropriately adjusted, in
the case of interest payments, to reflect the period of time during which such Revolving Lender’s risk participation was funded) in the
same funds as those received by the Revolving Swing Line Lender.
(ii)
If any payment received by the Revolving Swing Line Lender in respect of principal or interest on any Revolving
Swing Line Loan is required to be returned by the Revolving Swing Line Lender under any of the circumstances described in Section
10.05 (including pursuant to any settlement entered into by the Revolving Swing Line Lender in its discretion), each Revolving Lender
shall pay to the Revolving Swing Line Lender its Applicable Revolving Percentage thereof on demand of the Administrative Agent,
plus interest thereon from the date of such demand to the date such amount is returned, at a rate per annum equal to the Federal Funds
Rate. The Administrative Agent will make such demand upon the request of the Revolving Swing Line Lender. The obligations of the
Revolving Lenders under this clause shall survive the payment in full of the Obligations and the termination of this Agreement.
(e)
Interest for Account of Revolving Swing Line Lender. The Revolving Swing Line Lender shall be responsible for invoicing the
Company for interest on the Revolving Swing Line Loans. Until each Revolving Lender funds its Daily Simple SOFR Committed Loan or risk
participation pursuant to this Section 2.04 to refinance such Revolving Lender’s Applicable Revolving Percentage of any Revolving Swing
Line Loan, interest in respect of such Applicable Revolving Percentage shall be solely for the account of the Revolving Swing Line Lender.
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(f)
Payments Directly to Revolving Swing Line Lender. The Company shall make all payments of principal and interest in respect
of the Revolving Swing Line Loans directly to the Revolving Swing Line Lender.
2.05
New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, each New Vehicle Floorplan
Lender severally agrees to make loans (each such loan, a “New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan”) to the New Vehicle Borrowers from time
to time, on any Business Day during the Availability Period, in an aggregate amount outstanding not to exceed at any time the amount of such
Lender’s New Vehicle Floorplan Commitment; provided, however, that after giving effect to any New Vehicle Floorplan Committed
Borrowing, (i) the Total Outstandings shall not exceed the Aggregate Commitments, (ii) the Total New Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings shall
not exceed the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments, (iii) the aggregate Outstanding Amount of the New Vehicle Floorplan
Committed Loans of any New Vehicle Floorplan Lender plus such Lender’s Applicable New Vehicle Floorplan Percentage of the Outstanding
Amount of all New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans shall not exceed such Lender’s New Vehicle Floorplan Commitment, (iv) such Loan,
together with the aggregate Outstanding Amount of all other New Vehicle Floorplan Loans made on or prior to such date shall not exceed any
applicable Within Line Limitation unless otherwise consented to by the Administrative Agent in its sole discretion, and (v) on a per New
Vehicle basis, such Loan shall not exceed 100% of the original invoice price (including freight charges) of each New Vehicle financed,
provided, further, that the proceeds of New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans shall only be used by a New Vehicle Borrower to pay the
purchase price of New Vehicles owned by such New Vehicle Borrower, including dealer trade, Demonstrators, Rental Vehicles and Fleet
Vehicles (including the refinancing of New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans or other new vehicle floorplan loans that had financed (or
refinanced) such New Vehicle Borrower’s purchase of such New Vehicles), including refinancings from New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account
Advances. Within the limits of each New Vehicle Floorplan Lender’s New Vehicle Floorplan Commitment, and subject to the other terms and
conditions hereof, the New Vehicle Borrowers may borrow under this Section 2.05, prepay under Section 2.14, and reborrow under this Section
2.05. New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans may be Base Rate Loans or Daily Simple SOFR Loans, as further provided herein.
Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, after giving effect to any Borrowing or conversion, all outstanding New Vehicle Floorplan
Loans of the Company and the New Vehicle Borrowers must be of the same Type.
2.06
Borrowings, Conversions and Continuations of New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans.
(a)
Each New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Borrowing and each conversion of New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans from
one Type to the other shall be made (i) upon the Company’s irrevocable notice to the Administrative Agent, which may be given by (A)
telephone, or (B) a New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice; provided that any telephonic notice must be confirmed promptly by
delivery to the Administrative Agent of a New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice; provided further, that New Vehicle Floorplan
Committed Borrowings at the request of the Company shall only be permitted on the Closing Date, during the Asbury New Vehicle Control
Period, and otherwise at times permitted by the Administrative Agent in its sole discretion and (ii) at any time other than during an Asbury New
Vehicle Control Period, upon the request of the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender (on behalf of the Company) to the Administrative
Agent; provided that the entire proceeds of any New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans requested by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Lender pursuant to this clause (ii) shall be applied to repay the Outstanding Amount of the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans or to
honor Payoff Letter Commitments. Each such New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice from the Company must be received by the
Administrative Agent not later than 1:00 p.m. (A) one Business Day prior to the requested date of any New Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing of
Daily Simple SOFR Loans or of any conversion of Daily Simple SOFR Loans to Base Rate Committed Loans or of any conversion of Base
Rate Committed Loans to Daily Simple SOFR Loans, and (B) one Business Day prior to the requested date of any Borrowing of Base Rate
Committed Loans. Each New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice from the Company shall specify (W) whether the Company is
requesting a New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Borrowing, a conversion of New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans from one Type to the
other, (X) the requested date of the Borrowing or conversion, as the case may be (which shall be a Business Day), (Y) the principal amount of
New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans to be borrowed or converted, and (Z) the Type of New Vehicle Floorplan Committed
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Loans to be borrowed If the Company fails to provide a timely New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice requesting a conversion of
Daily Simple SOFR Loans to Base Rate Loans, such Loans shall continue as Daily Simple SOFR Loans. If the Company fails to specify a Type
of New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan in a New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice then the applicable New Vehicle Floorplan
Committed Loans shall be made as, or converted to, Daily Simple SOFR Loans.
(b)
During an Asbury New Vehicle Control Period, the proceeds of any New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans requested by the
Company shall be applied only to repay the Outstanding Amount of the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans or to honor Payoff Letter
Commitments.
(c)
Following receipt of a New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice, the Administrative Agent shall promptly notify each
New Vehicle Floorplan Lender of the amount of its Applicable New Vehicle Floorplan Percentage of the applicable New Vehicle Floorplan
Committed Loans. Each such Lender shall make the amount of its New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan available to the Administrative
Agent in immediately available funds at the Administrative Agent’s Office not later than 1:00 p.m. on the Business Day specified in the
applicable New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice. Upon satisfaction of the applicable conditions set forth in Section 4.02 (and, if such
Borrowing is an initial Credit Extension, Section 4.01), the Administrative Agent shall make all funds so received available to the New Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender who will repay New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans or honor Payoff Letter Commitments.
(d)
At any time that Base Rate Loans are outstanding, the Administrative Agent shall notify the Company and the New Vehicle
Floorplan Lenders of any change in Bank of America’s prime rate used in determining the Base Rate promptly following the public
announcement of such change.
2.07
New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan.
(a)
The New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein (and, if a New Vehicle
Autoborrow Agreement is in effect, in such agreement), the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender agrees, in reliance upon the agreements
of the other New Vehicle Floorplan Lenders set forth in this Section 2.07, to make loans (each such loan, a “New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Loan”) to the New Vehicle Borrowers from time to time on any Business Day during the Availability Period in an aggregate amount not to
exceed at any time outstanding the amount of the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Sublimit, notwithstanding the fact that such New Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Loans, when aggregated with the Applicable New Vehicle Floorplan Percentage of the Outstanding Amount of New
Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans of the Lender acting as New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, may exceed the amount of such
Lender’s New Vehicle Floorplan Commitment; provided, however, that (i) after giving effect to any New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan,
(w) subject to Section 2.08, the Total Outstandings shall not exceed the Aggregate Commitments, (x) subject to Section 2.08, the Total New
Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings shall not exceed the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments, (y) subject to Section 2.08, the aggregate
Outstanding Amount of the New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans of any New Vehicle Floorplan Lender, plus such Lender’s Applicable
New Vehicle Floorplan Percentage of the Outstanding Amount of all New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans shall not exceed such Lender’s
New Vehicle Floorplan Commitment, and (z) such Loan, together with the aggregate Outstanding Amount of all other New Vehicle Floorplan
Swing Line Loans made on or prior to such date shall not exceed any applicable Within Line Limitation unless otherwise consented to by the
New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender in its sole discretion, and (ii) the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender shall not be under any
obligation to make any such New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan if any Lender is at such time a Defaulting Lender, unless the New
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender has entered into arrangements, including the delivery of Cash Collateral, satisfactory to the New Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender (in its sole discretion) with the Company or such Defaulting Lender to eliminate such New Vehicle Floorplan
Swing Line Lender’s actual or potential Fronting Exposure (after giving effect to Section 2.27(a)(iv)) with respect to the Defaulting Lender
arising from either the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan then proposed to be made or that New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan and
all other New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans then outstanding as to which the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender has actual or
potential Fronting Exposure, as it may elect in its sole discretion; and provided, further, that (subject to the terms of any New Vehicle
Autoborrow Agreement that may be in effect) the proceeds of New Vehicle Floorplan
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Swing Line Loans shall only be used (w) to repay New Vehicle Committed Loans to the extent provided in any Autoborrow Agreement that
may be in effect or for any other purpose expressly provided in Section 6.11(b)(iii), (x) to honor New Vehicle Floorplan drafts presented by the
applicable vehicle manufacturer or distributor to the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender pursuant to Payment Commitments, (y) to
honor obligations arising under Payoff Letter Commitments or (z) otherwise to pay the purchase price of New Vehicles. Within the foregoing
limits, and subject to the other terms and conditions hereof, the New Vehicle Borrowers may borrow under this Section 2.07, prepay under
Section 2.13, and reborrow under this Section 2.07. Each New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan may be a Base Rate Loan or a Daily Simple
SOFR Loan. Except as otherwise provided with respect to New Vehicle Floorplan Overdrafts, immediately upon the making of a New Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Loan, each New Vehicle Floorplan Lender shall be deemed to, and hereby irrevocably and unconditionally agrees to,
purchase from the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender a risk participation in such New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan in an
amount equal to the product of such Lender’s Applicable New Vehicle Floorplan Percentage times the amount of such New Vehicle Floorplan
Swing Line Loan.
(b)
Payment Commitments and Payoff Letter Commitments.
(i)
The New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender is authorized to make New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans for
the account of the New Vehicle Borrowers directly to certain individual manufacturers or distributors that provide New Vehicles to the
New Vehicle Borrowers, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the respective Payment Commitment agreed to between the
New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and each such manufacturer or distributor, and without any further notice as otherwise
required in this Section. Each New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan made pursuant to a Payment Commitment shall be a Daily
Simple SOFR Loan at the time of such Borrowing, but may be converted to a Base Rate Loan in accordance with the terms of this
Agreement. The New Vehicle Borrowers shall be and remain jointly and severally liable to the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Lender, or the New Vehicle Floorplan Lenders, as applicable, for all payments made to a manufacturer or distributor pursuant to a
Payment Commitment.
(ii)
The New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender is authorized to make New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans for
the account of the New Vehicle Borrowers directly to certain individual financial institutions that financed New Vehicles owned by or
being acquired by the New Vehicle Borrowers, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the respective Payoff Letter
Commitment agreed to between the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and each such financial institution, and without any
further notice as otherwise required in this Section. Each New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan made pursuant to a Payoff Letter
Commitment shall be a Daily Simple SOFR Loan at the time of such Borrowing, but may be converted to a Base Rate Loan in
accordance with the terms of this Agreement. The New Vehicle Borrowers shall be and remain jointly and severally liable to the New
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, or the New Vehicle Floorplan Lenders, as applicable, for all payments made to a financial
institution pursuant to a Payoff Letter Commitment.
(c)
Borrowing Procedures. In addition to New Vehicle Floorplan Swingline Loans made or deemed made pursuant to any New
Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement then in effect, each New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowing may be made pursuant to (i) a Payment
Commitment, (ii) a Payoff Letter Commitment, (iii) in the case of a dealer trade, bulk purchase or other purchase of any New Vehicle, pursuant
to the Floorplan On-line System in accordance with practices agreed to from time to time between the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Lender and the applicable New Vehicle Borrower, including requirements that the Company or applicable New Vehicle Borrower shall have
entered information relating to the applicable New Vehicles (including the dollar amount of such Loans and the make, model and vehicle
identification number of such New Vehicles) into the Floorplan On-Line System . The New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender will
promptly make the amount of its New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan available directly to the manufacturer or distributor pursuant to a
Payment Commitment in accordance with industry practices, to the financial institution pursuant to a Payoff Letter Commitment, or to the
applicable New Vehicle Borrower by crediting the account of such New Vehicle Borrower. In the case of a dealer trade, bulk purchase or other
purchase of any New
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Vehicle, funds will be credited to the applicable New Vehicle Borrower’s deposit account at the following times depending on whether the
deposit account is maintained at Bank of America and when the request is entered pursuant to the Floorplan On-Line System:
(i)
if the deposit account is maintained at Bank of America, the funds will be credited to the account (A) on the same
Business Day if the request is entered prior to 7:00 p.m. on that day, or (B) on the next Business Day if the request is entered at or after
7:00 p.m. or is entered on a day that is not a Business Day; and
(ii)
if the deposit account is maintained at any Person other than Bank of America, the funds will be credited to the account
(A) on the following Business Day if the request is received prior to 7:00 p.m. on a Business Day, or (B) two Business Days later if the
request is entered at or after 7:00 p.m. or is entered on a day that is not a Business Day.
In either case of clause (i) or (ii), interest shall not accrue on such funds until they are deposited to such applicable deposit account.
In order to facilitate the borrowing and repayment of New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans and the crediting of funds to, and
withdrawals of funds from, the New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account, the New Vehicle Borrowers and the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Lender may mutually agree to, and are hereby authorized to, enter into an agreement in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the
Administrative Agent and the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender (the “New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement”) provided that, (i) in no
event shall the New Vehicle Borrowers be entitled to enter into a New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement at any time a Used Vehicle Autoborrow
Agreement or a Revolving Autoborrow Agreement is in place and (ii) the New Vehicle Borrowers may, once per calendar year and upon 30
days advance notice to the Administrative Agent, the Revolving Swing Line Lender, the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and the
Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and upon the payment to the Administrative Agent of a $10,000 fee (which fee may be waived in
the sole discretion of the Administrative Agent), alternate between having a Revolving Autoborrow Agreement, a New Vehicle Autoborrow
Agreement or a Used Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement in place. At any time a New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement is in effect, to the extent
any New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans are made pursuant to such New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement, the requirements for New
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowings set forth in the immediately preceding paragraphs shall not apply, and all such New Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Borrowings shall be made in accordance with the New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement, until the right to such New
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowings is suspended or terminated hereunder or in accordance with the terms of the New Vehicle
Autoborrow Agreement. Solely for purposes of determining the availability of New Vehicle Committed Loans (other than New Vehicle
Committed Loans used to refinance New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans) and for determining the Total New Vehicle Floorplan
Outstandings in connection with Section 2.14, at any time during which a New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement is in effect, the Outstanding
Amount of all New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans shall be deemed to be the amount of the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Sublimit.
For purposes of any New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowing pursuant to the New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement, all references to Bank
of America shall be deemed to be a reference to Bank of America, in its capacity as New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender hereunder.
If a Payment Commitment, Payoff Letter Commitment or the Floorplan On-Line System (as applicable) fails to specify the Type of
New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan, the applicable New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan shall be made as a Daily Simple SOFR Loan.
Each conversion of New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans from one Type to the other shall be pursuant to an irrevocable notice to the New
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender by delivery of a New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan Notice appropriately completed and signed by
a Responsible Officer of the Company. If the
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Company fails to provide a timely New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan Notice requesting a conversion of Daily Simple SOFR Loans to
Base Rate Loans, such Loans shall continue as Daily Simple SOFR Loans. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, after giving effect
to any Borrowing or conversion, all outstanding New Vehicle Floorplan Loans of the Company and the New Vehicle Borrowers must be of the
same Type.
(d)
Asbury New Vehicle Control Period Balances. If at any time during an Asbury New Vehicle Control Period (but only at any
time a New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement is not then in effect) (i) the amount of any repayment of New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans
exceeds (ii) an amount equal to the Outstanding Amount of New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans (such excess of the amount in clause (i)
over the amount in clause (ii) being referred to as the “Negative New Vehicle Swing Line Balance”), the Outstanding Amount of such New
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans shall be reduced by the amount of such repayment, and (Y) the Negative New Vehicle Swing Line
Balance shall be held by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender to prepay subsequent New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans or, (Z)
if and when the Company submits a notice of prepayment of New Vehicle Committed Loans pursuant to Section 2.13(c) or, at the election of
the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, in its sole discretion, the Negative New Vehicle Swing Line Balance may be used to prepay
such New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans. Until the Company submits such notice and/or such Loans are prepaid in accordance with
clause (Z), such New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans shall continue to accrue interest as otherwise set forth in this Agreement; provided
that, with respect to New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans in a principal amount equal to the Negative New Vehicle Swing Line Balance,
the interest on such portion (the “Specified Committed Loan Interest”) shall be collected by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender (at
the rate then applicable to New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans), with such amounts billed monthly and subsequently withdrawn by the
New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender from the Company’s bank account with Bank of America five (5) Business Days after delivery of
such bill. The New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and the Administrative Agent shall agree on procedures so that (either prior to or
promptly after the collection thereof) the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender shall turn over to the Administrative Agent the Specified
Committed Loan Interest for application to the New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans.
(e)
Authorization. Each New Vehicle Borrower and the Company authorizes the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender (and
each New Vehicle Floorplan Lender consents to such authorization), in consultation with the Company, to enter into, modify or terminate
Payment Commitments and Payoff Letter Commitments (in each case, in the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender’s discretion) and to
advise each manufacturer or distributor or financial institution, as the case may be, that provides New Vehicles to such New Vehicle Borrower
of any change or termination which may occur with respect to the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line.
(f)
Refinancing of New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans.
(i)
The New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender at any time in its sole and absolute discretion may request (and during
an Asbury New Vehicle Control Period, upon direction of the Company shall request), on behalf of the New Vehicle Borrowers (which
hereby irrevocably authorize the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender to so request on their behalf), that each New Vehicle
Floorplan Lender make a Daily Simple SOFR Committed Loan in an amount equal to such Lender’s Applicable New Vehicle
Floorplan Percentage of the amount of New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans that the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender
(or the Company, during an Asbury New Vehicle Control Period), in its sole discretion chooses to refinance (including, subject to
Section 2.08(b)(iii), any New Vehicle Floorplan Overdrafts). Unless a New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement is then in effect, the New
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender intends to request each New Vehicle Floorplan Lender to make such Daily Simple SOFR
Committed Loans no less frequently than once in any given calendar month. Such request shall be made in writing (which written
request shall be deemed to be a New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice for purposes hereof) and in accordance with the
requirements of Section 2.06, without regard to the minimum and multiples specified therein for the principal amount of Daily Simple
SOFR Loans, but subject to the unutilized portion of the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments and the conditions set forth
in Section 4.02. Each New Vehicle
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Floorplan Lender shall make an amount equal to its Applicable New Vehicle Floorplan Percentage of the amount specified in such New
Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice available to the Administrative Agent in immediately available funds for the account of the
New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender at the Administrative Agent’s Office not later than 1:00 p.m. on the day specified in such
New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice (or, if later, one Business Day after the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender
delivers such notice), whereupon, subject to Section 2.08(b)(iii), each New Vehicle Floorplan Lender that so makes funds available
shall be deemed to have made a Daily Simple SOFR Committed Loan to the Company in such amount. The Administrative Agent shall
remit the funds so received to the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender.
(ii)
If for any reason any New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan (other than a New Vehicle Floorplan Overdraft) cannot
be refinanced by such a New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Borrowing in accordance with Section 2.07(c)(i), the request for Daily
Simple SOFR New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans submitted by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender as set forth herein
shall be deemed to be a request by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender that each of the New Vehicle Floorplan Lenders fund
its risk participation in the relevant New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan and each Lender’s payment to the Administrative Agent
for the account of the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender pursuant to Section 2.07(c)(i) shall be deemed payment in respect of
such participation.
(iii)
If any New Vehicle Floorplan Lender fails to make available to the Administrative Agent for the account of the New
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender any amount required to be paid by such New Vehicle Floorplan Lender pursuant to the foregoing
provisions of this Section 2.07(c) by the time specified in Section 2.07(c)(i), the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender shall be
entitled to recover from such New Vehicle Floorplan Lender (acting through the Administrative Agent), on demand, such amount with
interest thereon for the period from the date such payment is required to the date on which such payment is immediately available to
the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender at a rate per annum equal to the greater of the Federal Funds Rate and a rate determined
by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender in accordance with banking industry rules on interbank compensation, plus any
administrative, processing or similar fees charged by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender in connection with the foregoing.
If such New Vehicle Floorplan Lender pays such amount (with interest and fees as aforesaid), the amount so paid shall constitute such
New Vehicle Floorplan Lender’s New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan included in the relevant New Vehicle Floorplan Committed
Borrowing or funded participation in the relevant New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan, as the case may be. A certificate of the
New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender submitted to any New Vehicle Floorplan Lender (through the Administrative Agent) with
respect to any amounts owing under this clause (iii) shall be conclusive absent manifest error.
(iv)
Each New Vehicle Floorplan Lender’s obligation to make New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans or to purchase and
fund risk participations in New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans pursuant to this Section 2.07(c) shall be absolute and
unconditional and shall not be affected by any circumstance, including (A) any setoff, counterclaim, recoupment, defense or other right
which such New Vehicle Floorplan Lender may have against the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, the Company or any other
Person for any reason whatsoever, (B) the occurrence or continuance of a Default, or (C) any other occurrence, event or condition,
whether or not similar to any of the foregoing; provided, however, that each New Vehicle Floorplan Lender’s obligation to make New
Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans pursuant to this Section 2.07(c) is subject to the conditions set forth in Section 4.02. No such
funding of risk participations shall relieve or otherwise impair the obligation of the New Vehicle Borrowers (jointly and severally) to
repay New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans, together with interest as provided herein.
(g)
Repayment of Participations.
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(i)
At any time after any New Vehicle Floorplan Lender has purchased and funded a risk participation in a New Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Loan, if the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender receives any payment on account of such New Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Loan, the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender will distribute to such Lender its Applicable New Vehicle
Floorplan Percentage of such payment (appropriately adjusted, in the case of interest payments, to reflect the period of time during
which such Lender’s risk participation was funded) in the same funds as those received by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Lender.
(ii)
If any payment received by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender in respect of principal or interest on any
New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan (other than a New Vehicle Floorplan Overdraft) is required to be returned by the New Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender under any of the circumstances described in Section 10.05 (including pursuant to any settlement entered
into by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender in its discretion), each New Vehicle Floorplan Lender shall pay to the New
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender its Applicable New Vehicle Floorplan Percentage thereof on demand of the Administrative
Agent, plus interest thereon from the date of such demand to the date such amount is returned, at a rate per annum equal to the Federal
Funds Rate. The Administrative Agent will make such demand upon the request of the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender. The
obligations of the New Vehicle Floorplan Lenders under this clause shall survive the payment in full of the Obligations and the
termination of this Agreement.
(h)
Interest for Account of New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender. The New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender shall be
responsible for invoicing the New Vehicle Borrowers for interest on the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans. Until each New Vehicle
Floorplan Lender funds its Daily Simple SOFR Committed Loan or risk participation pursuant to this Section 2.07 to refinance such Lender’s
Applicable New Vehicle Floorplan Percentage of any New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan, interest in respect of such Applicable New
Vehicle Floorplan Percentage shall be solely for the account of the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender.
(i)
Payments Directly to New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender. Each New Vehicle Borrower shall make all payments of
principal and interest in respect of the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans directly to the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender.
2.08
New Vehicle Floorplan Overdrafts. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of Sections 2.05, 2.06 and 2.07,
(a)
if the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender has (acting in its discretion), according to the terms hereof, taken action to
suspend or terminate Payment Commitments and/or Payoff Letter Commitments and such Payment Commitments and/or Payoff Letter
Commitments, as the case may be, have in fact been suspended or terminated in accordance with their respective terms, then the New Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender shall not fund any draft with respect to such Payment Commitments and/or Payoff Letter Commitments;
(b)
if on any day the conditions precedent set forth in Section 4.03 have been satisfied and a draft with respect to a Payment
Commitment or a Payoff Letter Commitment is presented for payment (or a New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan may be funded pursuant
to Section 6.11(b)(iii)), the payment of which would cause (i) (A) the Outstanding Amount of all New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans,
plus (B) the Outstanding Amount of all New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans, plus (C) the aggregate principal amount of all Requests for
Credit Extensions of New Vehicle Floorplan Loans outstanding as of such day to exceed the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments
as of such day or (ii) the Outstanding Amount of New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans to exceed the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Sublimit, then, in such event:
(i)
the Company or any New Vehicle Borrower may either immediately reduce any pending Requests for Credit
Extensions (if any) of a New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan or make a payment of principal on New Vehicle Floorplan Committed
Loans and/or New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans in an amount which would prevent the aggregate amounts described
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in (A), (B) and (C) above from exceeding the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments; or
(ii)
the Company may request an increase in the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments pursuant to Section 2.22,
and such Payment Commitment or Payoff Letter Commitment shall be funded to the extent of such increase in accordance with said
Section; or
(iii)
regardless of whether the conditions of Sections 4.02 and 4.03 have otherwise been met, the New Vehicle Floorplan
Swing Line Lender may in its sole and absolute discretion, but shall not be obligated to, fund the payment due under such Payment
Commitment or Payoff Letter Commitment (or the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan pursuant to Section 6.11(b)(iii)) in whole
or in part (the amount of any such funding made by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, the “New Vehicle Floorplan
Overdraft”). Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as a commitment by or as requiring the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Lender to fund any such New Vehicle Floorplan Overdraft; or
(iv)
within five (5) Business Days after funding a New Vehicle Floorplan Overdraft, if the conditions to making a New
Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan are satisfied, the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender (or, during any Asbury New Vehicle
Control Period, the Company) shall request a New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Borrowing pursuant to Section 2.06(a) in an amount
equal to the lesser of (i) the amount of such New Vehicle Floorplan Overdraft and (ii) the maximum amount then available to be
borrowed under the New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments, and such New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Borrowing shall be applied to
refinance the amount of such New Vehicle Floorplan Overdraft (or portion thereof, applicable).
2.09
Electronic Processing and New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account.
(a)
Electronic Processing. The New Vehicle Borrowers may request New Vehicle Floorplan Loans electronically by access to
Administrative Agent’s web based floorplan on-line system (“Floorplan On-line System”) in accordance with and subject to the terms and
conditions established between the Administrative Agent, the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and the Company from time to time.
In connection with the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility, interest, curtailments and other payments pursuant to Section 2.16(b) or 2.18(b) or the
Fee Letters or otherwise in respect of each New Vehicle, shall be automatically debited (i) if the applicable New Vehicle Borrower’s account is
with Bank of America, on the Automatic Debit Date of each month and (ii) if the applicable New Vehicle Borrower’s account is not with Bank
of America, one Business Day prior to the Automatic Debit Date of each month, in each case, pursuant to on-line procedures established and
agreed to from time to time between such New Vehicle Borrower, the Administrative Agent and the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender,
including without limitation, automatic debits to cure Out of Balance conditions pursuant to Section 8.04. The New Vehicle Borrowers have
requested access to the Floorplan On-line System to retrieve monthly bills, to permit the New Vehicle Borrowers to access certain account
information relating to the New Vehicle Floorplan Loans and to facilitate the making of any payments or advances on the New Vehicle
Floorplan Loans by authorizing the Administrative Agent and the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender to debit or credit any one or more
of the New Vehicle Borrowers’ deposit accounts with the Administrative Agent or the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender. In
consideration for the Administrative Agent’s and the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender’s granting to the New Vehicle Borrowers
access to the Floorplan On-line System to view loan account information and make payments, the New Vehicle Borrowers acknowledge
responsibility for the security of such New Vehicle Borrowers’ passwords and other information necessary for access to Floorplan On-line
System, and the Company and each New Vehicle Borrower fully, finally, and forever releases and discharges the Administrative Agent, the
New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and their employees, agents, and representatives from any and all causes of action, claims, debts,
demands, and liabilities, of whatever kind or nature, in law or equity that the Company or any New Vehicle Borrower may now or hereafter
have, in any way relating to the Company or any New Vehicle’s Borrower’s access to, or use of, the Floorplan On-line System, other than those
arising out of the gross negligence, bad faith or willful misconduct of the Administrative Agent or the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Lender.
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(b)
New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account.
(i)
Creation of Account. The Administrative Agent has established for the New Vehicle Borrowers a flooring line
aggregate interest reduction account (the “New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account”). The New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account is not
a deposit account, and the New Vehicle Borrowers shall have no right or interest in any amounts in such account. The New Vehicle
Floorplan Offset Account is intended to permit voluntary reductions in the principal amount of New Vehicle Floorplan Loans
outstanding under this Agreement. Any amounts paid by the New Vehicle Borrowers into the New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account
will be available for re-advance to the New Vehicle Borrowers only in accordance with this Section 2.09(b).
(ii)
Payments and Advances. The New Vehicle Borrowers may, at their discretion, make payments to the New Vehicle
Floorplan Offset Account, which payments shall represent and be deemed to be prepayments of New Vehicle Floorplan Loans for the
pro rata benefit of the New Vehicle Floorplan Lenders, provided that the Company shall notify the Administrative Agent of each such
payment (which notification shall be made either before or promptly after such payment and may be accomplished through an
electronic system acceptable to the Administrative Agent or pursuant to any applicable New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement). The
Administrative Agent may, in its sole discretion, distribute to Lenders as an actual prepayment of their outstanding New Vehicle
Floorplan Loans any amounts received into the New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account, provided that such distributions shall not be
deemed to reduce the size of the New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account. So long as there is no continuing Default under this
Agreement, amounts in the New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account may be readvanced to the New Vehicle Borrowers (each such
readvance, a “New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account Advance”) upon request by the Company, provided that the Company shall
promptly notify the Administrative Agent of each such New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account Advance (which notification shall be
made either before or promptly after such New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account Advance and may be accomplished through an
electronic system acceptable to the Administrative Agent or pursuant to any applicable New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement). The
New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account Advances shall be subject to all the terms and conditions of this Section 2.09(b). Each New
Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account Advance shall be made as a Daily Simple SOFR Loan, subject to conversion to a different Type in
accordance with the terms of this Agreement (except to the extent that such New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account Advance is made
using a New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan pursuant to Section 6.11(b)(iii)). Each payment to the New Vehicle Floorplan Offset
Account and each New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account Advance shall be in an amount of at least $1,000,000. The amount credited to
the New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account shall be reduced by the amount of New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account Advances from
time to time.
(iii)
Application to Reduce Principal. For purposes of computing the interest due with respect to Total New Vehicle
Floorplan Outstandings for any day, the Outstanding Amount of New Vehicle Floorplan Loans on such day shall be reduced by the
Floorplan Interest Offset as of the close of business on such day (such reduction, the “Applicable Floorplan Principal Reduction”) and
interest will be determined as provided in Section 2.16(b); provided, however, notwithstanding the amount on deposit in the New
Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account at any time, the maximum amount of the Applicable Floorplan Principal Reduction under this
Section 2.09 for any day shall be limited to an amount equal to the Outstanding Amount of New Vehicle Floorplan Loans on such day.
Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary: (A) the Applicable Floorplan Principal Reduction on any day: (1) shall be deemed to
reduce the Outstanding Amount of New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans for purposes of calculating the commitment fee for such
day under Section 2.17 and (2) (to the extent that amounts in the New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account have been distributed to any
Lenders as a prepayment of their New Vehicle Floorplan Loans) shall reduce the Outstanding Amount of New Vehicle Floorplan Loans
for purposes of determining any remaining availability under the New Vehicle Floorplan Commitment; and (B) the Applicable
Floorplan Principal Reduction shall not: (1) limit or modify any principal payment requirements; (2) be used for the satisfaction of any
curtailment requirements or (3) modify any other terms set forth elsewhere in this Agreement.
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(iv)
Termination of New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account. At any time, upon ten days written notice to the Company, the
Administrative Agent may terminate the New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account provided by this Section 2.09(b) if the Administrative
Agent determines, in its reasonable discretion, that continuation of the New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account would have an adverse
effect on the Administrative Agent or any New Vehicle Floorplan Lender. In addition, the Administrative Agent may terminate the
New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account without prior notice upon the occurrence and during the continuance of any Event of Default.
Upon any such termination of the New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account, the amounts on deposit therein shall be applied to the
prepayment of New Vehicle Floorplan Loans under Section 2.13, or, at the option of the Company, so long as no Event of Default has
occurred and is continuing, remitted to the Company on behalf of the New Vehicle Borrowers.
2.10
Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, each Used Vehicle Floorplan
Lender severally agrees to make loans (each such loan, a “Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan”) to the Used Vehicle Borrowers from time
to time, on any Business Day during the Availability Period, in an aggregate amount not to exceed at any time outstanding the amount of such
Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender’s Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitment; provided, however, that after giving effect to any Used Vehicle
Floorplan Committed Borrowing, (i) the Total Outstandings shall not exceed the Aggregate Commitments, (ii) the Total Used Vehicle Floorplan
Outstandings shall not exceed the lesser of the Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments or the Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing
Base, and (iii) the aggregate Outstanding Amount of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans of any Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender, plus
such Lender’s Applicable Used Vehicle Floorplan Percentage of the Outstanding Amount of all Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans shall
not exceed such Lender’s Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitment. Within the limits of each Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender’s Used Vehicle
Floorplan Commitment, and subject to the other terms and conditions hereof, the Used Vehicle Borrowers may borrow under this Section 2.10,
prepay under Section 2.13, and reborrow under this Section 2.10. Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans may be Base Rate Loans or Daily
Simple SOFR Loans, as further provided herein.
2.11
Borrowings, Conversions and Continuations of Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans.
(a)
Each Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Borrowing and each conversion of Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans from
one Type to the other, shall be made upon the Company’s irrevocable notice to the Administrative Agent, which may be given by (A)
telephone, or (B) a Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice; provided that any telephonic notice must be confirmed promptly by
delivery to the Administrative Agent of a Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice. Each such Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan
Notice must be received by the Administrative Agent not later than 1:00 p.m. (i) one Business Day prior to the requested date of any Used
Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing of Daily Simple SOFR Loans or of any conversion of Daily Simple SOFR Loans to Base Rate Committed Loans
or of any conversion of Base Rate Committed Loans to Daily Simple SOFR Loans, and (ii) one Business Day prior to the requested date of any
Borrowing of Base Rate Committed Loans. Each Borrowing of or conversion to Daily Simple SOFR Loans shall be in a principal amount of
$5,000,000 or a whole multiple of $1,000,000 in excess thereof. Except as provided in Section 2.11(c), each Borrowing of or conversion to
Base Rate Committed Loans shall be in a principal amount of $1,000,000 or a whole multiple of $100,000 in excess thereof. Each Used Vehicle
Floorplan Committed Loan Notice shall specify (i) whether the Company is requesting a Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Borrowing, a
conversion of Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans from one Type to the other, (ii) the requested date of the Borrowing or conversion, as
the case may be (which shall be a Business Day), (iii) the principal amount of Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans to be borrowed or
converted, (iv) the Type of Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans to be borrowed or to which existing Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed
Loans are to be converted and (v) the applicable Borrower. If the Company fails to provide a timely Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan
Notice requesting a conversion of Daily Simple SOFR Loans to Base Rate Loans, such Loans shall, subject to Article III, continue as Daily
Simple SOFR Loans. If the Company fails to specify a Type of Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan in a Used Vehicle Floorplan
Committed Loan Notice, then the applicable Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans shall, subject to Article III, be made as, or converted to,
Daily Simple SOFR Loans.
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(b)
Following receipt of a Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice, the Administrative Agent shall promptly notify each
Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender of the amount of its Applicable Used Vehicle Floorplan Percentage of the applicable Used Vehicle Floorplan
Committed Loans. Each Lender shall make the amount of its Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan available to the Administrative Agent in
immediately available funds at the Administrative Agent’s Office not later than 1:00 p.m. on the Business Day specified in the applicable Used
Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice. Upon satisfaction of the applicable conditions set forth in Section 4.02 (and, if such Borrowing is
an initial Credit Extension, Section 4.01), the Administrative Agent shall make all funds so received available to the applicable Borrower in like
funds as received by the Administrative Agent by crediting the account of such Borrower on the books of Bank of America with the amount of
such funds.
(c)
At any time that Base Rate Loans are outstanding, the Administrative Agent shall notify the Company and the Used Vehicle
Floorplan Lenders of any change in Bank of America’s prime rate used in determining the Base Rate promptly following the public
announcement of such change.
2.12
Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans.
(a)
The Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein and in the Used Vehicle
Autoborrow Agreement, the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender agrees, in reliance upon the agreements of the other Used Vehicle
Floorplan Lenders set forth in this Section 2.12, to make loans (each such loan, a “Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan”) to the Company
from time to time on any Business Day during the Availability Period in an aggregate amount not to exceed at any time outstanding the amount
of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Sublimit, notwithstanding the fact that such Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans, when
aggregated with the Applicable Used Vehicle Floorplan Percentage of the Outstanding Amount of Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans of
the Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender acting as Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, may exceed the amount of such Used Vehicle
Floorplan Lender’s Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitment; provided, however, that (i) after giving effect to any Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing
Line Loan (x) the Total Outstandings shall not exceed the Aggregate Commitments, (y) the Total Used Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings shall not
exceed the lesser of the Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments or the Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base, and (z) the aggregate
Outstanding Amount of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans of any Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender, plus such Lender’s Applicable
Used Vehicle Floorplan Percentage of the Outstanding Amount of all Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans shall not exceed such Lender’s
Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitment, and (ii) the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender shall not be under any obligation to make any
such Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan if any Lender is at such time a Defaulting Lender, unless the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing
Line Lender has entered into arrangements, including the delivery of Cash Collateral, satisfactory to the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Lender (in its sole discretion) with the Company or such Defaulting Lender to eliminate such Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender’s
actual or potential Fronting Exposure (after giving effect to Section 2.27(a)(iv)) with respect to the Defaulting Lender arising from either the
Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan then proposed to be made or that Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan and all other Used
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans then outstanding as to which the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender has actual or potential
Fronting Exposure, as it may elect in its sole discretion; and provided, further, that (subject to the terms of any Used Vehicle Autoborrow
Agreement that may be in effect) the Company shall not use the proceeds of any Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan to refinance any
outstanding Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan. Within the foregoing limits, and subject to the other terms and conditions hereof, the
Company, may borrow under this Section 2.12, prepay under Section 2.13, and reborrow under this Section 2.12. Each Used Vehicle Floorplan
Swing Line Loan may be a Base Rate Loan or a Daily Simple SOFR Loan. Immediately upon the making of a Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing
Line Loan, each Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender shall be deemed to, and hereby irrevocably and unconditionally agrees to, purchase from the
Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender a risk participation in such Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan in an amount equal to the
product of such Lender’s Applicable Used Vehicle Floorplan Percentage times the amount of such Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan.
(b)
Borrowing Procedures. At any time a Used Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement is not in effect, each Used Vehicle Floorplan
Swing Line Borrowing and each conversion of Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans from one type to the other shall be made upon the
Company’s irrevocable
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notice to the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and the Administrative Agent, which may be given by (A) telephone or (B) by a Used
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan Notice. Each such Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan Notice must be received by the Used Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender and the Administrative Agent not later than 1:00 p.m. on the requested borrowing date or date of any conversion
of Daily Simple SOFR Loans to Base Rate Loans or of any conversion of Base Rate Loans to Daily Simple SOFR Loans, and in each case shall
specify (i) the amount to be borrowed, which shall be a minimum of $100,000, (ii) the requested borrowing date, which shall be a Business Day
and (iii) the Type of Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan to be borrowed or to which existing Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans
are to be converted. Promptly after receipt by the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender of any Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan
Notice, the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender will confirm with the Administrative Agent (by telephone or in writing) that the
Administrative Agent has also received such Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan Notice and, if not, the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing
Line Lender will notify the Administrative Agent (by telephone or in writing) of the contents thereof. Unless the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing
Line Lender has received notice (by telephone or in writing) from the Administrative Agent (including at the request of any Used Vehicle
Floorplan Lender) prior to 2:00 p.m. on the date of the proposed Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowing (A) directing the Used Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender not to make such Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan as a result of the limitations set forth in the proviso to
the first sentence of Section 2.12(a), or (B) that one or more of the applicable conditions specified in Article IV is not then satisfied, then,
subject to the terms and conditions hereof, the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender will, not later than 3:00 p.m. on the borrowing date
specified in such Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan Notice, make the amount of its Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan available
to the Company at its office by crediting the account of the Company on the books of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender in
immediately available funds. If the Company fails to provide a timely Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan Notice requesting a conversion
of Daily Simple SOFR Loans to Base Rate Loans, such Loans shall, subject to Article III, continue as Daily Simple SOFR Loans. If the
Company fails to specify a Type of Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan in a Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan Notice, then the
applicable Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan shall, subject to Article III, be made as a Daily Simple SOFR Loan.
In order to facilitate the borrowing of Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans, the Company and the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing
Line Lender may mutually agree to, and are hereby authorized to, enter into an Autoborrow Agreement in form and substance reasonably
satisfactory to the Administrative Agent and the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender (the “Used Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement”)
providing for the automatic advance by the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender of Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans under the
conditions set forth in such agreement, which shall be in addition to the conditions set forth herein (each such advance, a “Used Vehicle
Autoborrow Advance”); provided that, (i) in no event shall the Company be entitled to Used Vehicle Autoborrow Advances pursuant to a Used
Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement at any time a Revolving Autoborrow Agreement or a New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement is in place and (ii)
the Company may, once per calendar year and upon 30 days advance notice to the Administrative Agent, the Revolving Swing Line Lender, the
New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and upon the payment to the Administrative
Agent of a $10,000 fee (which fee may be waived in the sole discretion of the Administrative Agent), alternate between having a Revolving
Autoborrow Agreement, a New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement or a Used Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement in place. At any time such a Used
Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement is in effect, the requirements for Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowings set forth in the immediately
preceding paragraph shall not apply, and all Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowings shall be made in accordance with the Used Vehicle
Autoborrow Agreement, until the right to such Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowings is suspended or terminated hereunder or in
accordance with the terms of the Used Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement. Solely for purposes of determining the availability of Used Vehicle
Floorplan Committed Loans (other than Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans used to refinance Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Loans) and for determining the Total Used Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings in connection with Section 2.14, at any time during which a Used
Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement is in effect, the Outstanding
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Amount of all Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans shall be deemed to be the amount of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Sublimit.
For purposes of any Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowing pursuant to the Used Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement, all references to
Bank of America shall be deemed to be a reference to Bank of America, in its capacity as Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender
hereunder.
(c)
Refinancing of Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans.
(i)
The Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender at any time in its sole and absolute discretion may request, on behalf
of the Company (which hereby irrevocably authorizes the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender to so request on its behalf), that
each Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender make a Daily Simple SOFR Committed Loan in an amount equal to such Used Vehicle Floorplan
Lender’s Applicable Used Vehicle Floorplan Percentage of the amount of Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans then outstanding;
provided that the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender intends to request each Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender to make such
Daily Simple SOFR Committed Loans no less frequently than once in any given calendar month. Such request shall be made in writing
(which written request shall be deemed to be a Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice for purposes hereof) and in accordance
with the requirements of Section 2.11, without regard to the minimum and multiples specified therein for the principal amount of Daily
Simple SOFR Loans, but subject to the unutilized portion of the Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments and the conditions
set forth in Section 4.02. Each Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender shall make an amount equal to its Applicable Used Vehicle Floorplan
Percentage of the amount specified in such Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice available to the Administrative Agent in
immediately available funds (and the Administrative Agent may apply Cash Collateral available with respect to the applicable Used
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan) for the account of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender at the Administrative Agent’s
Office not later than 1:00 p.m. on the day specified in such Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notice (or, if later, one Business
Day after the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender delivers such notice), whereupon, subject to Section 2.12(c)(ii), each Used
Vehicle Floorplan Lender that so makes funds available shall be deemed to have made a Daily Simple SOFR Committed Loan to the
Company in such amount. The Administrative Agent shall remit the funds so received to the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Lender.
(ii)
If for any reason any Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan cannot be refinanced by such a Used Vehicle Floorplan
Committed Borrowing in accordance with Section 2.12(c)(i), the request for Daily Simple SOFR Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed
Loans submitted by the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender as set forth herein shall be deemed to be a request by the Used
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender that each of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Lenders fund its risk participation in the relevant Used
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan and each Lender’s payment to the Administrative Agent for the account of the Used Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender pursuant to Section 2.12(c)(i) shall be deemed payment in respect of such participation.
(iii)
If any Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender fails to make available to the Administrative Agent for the account of the Used
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender any amount required to be paid by such Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender pursuant to the foregoing
provisions of this Section 2.12(c) by the time specified in Section 2.12(c)(i), the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender shall be
entitled to recover from such Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender (acting through the Administrative Agent), on demand, such amount with
interest thereon for the period from the date such payment is required to the date on which such payment is immediately available to
the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender at a rate per annum equal to the greater of the Federal Funds Rate and a rate determined
by the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender in accordance with banking industry rules on interbank compensation, plus any
administrative, processing or similar fees charged by the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender in connection with the foregoing.
If such Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender pays such amount (with interest and fees as aforesaid), the amount so paid shall constitute
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such Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender’s Committed Loan included in the relevant Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Borrower or
funded participation in the relevant Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan, as the case may be. A certificate of the Used Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender submitted to any Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender (through the Administrative Agent) with respect to any
amounts owing under this clause (iii) shall be conclusive absent manifest error.
(iv)
Each Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender’s obligation to make Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans or to purchase
and fund risk participations in Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans pursuant to this Section 2.12(c) shall be absolute and
unconditional and shall not be affected by any circumstance, including (A) any setoff, counterclaim, recoupment, defense or other right
which such Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender may have against the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, the Company or any
other Person for any reason whatsoever, (B) the occurrence or continuance of a Default, or (C) any other occurrence, event or
condition, whether or not similar to any of the foregoing; provided, however, that each Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender’s obligation to
make Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans pursuant to this Section 2.12(c) is subject to the conditions set forth in Section 4.02.
No such funding of risk participations shall relieve or otherwise impair the obligation of the Company to repay Used Vehicle Floorplan
Swing Line Loans, together with interest as provided herein.
(d)
Repayment of Participations.
(i)
At any time after any Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender has purchased and funded a risk participation in a Used Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Loan, if the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender receives any payment on account of such Used Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Loan, the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender will distribute to such Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender its
Applicable Used Vehicle Floorplan Percentage of such payment (appropriately adjusted, in the case of interest payments, to reflect the
period of time during which such Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender’s risk participation was funded) in the same funds as those received
by the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender.
(ii)
If any payment received by the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender in respect of principal or interest on any
Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan is required to be returned by the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender under any of the
circumstances described in Section 10.05 (including pursuant to any settlement entered into by the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Lender in its discretion), each Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender shall pay to the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender its
Applicable Used Vehicle Floorplan Percentage thereof on demand of the Administrative Agent, plus interest thereon from the date of
such demand to the date such amount is returned, at a rate per annum equal to the Federal Funds Rate. The Administrative Agent will
make such demand upon the request of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender. The obligations of the Used Vehicle Floorplan
Lenders under this clause shall survive the payment in full of the Obligations and the termination of this Agreement.
(e)
Interest for Account of Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender. The Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender shall be
responsible for invoicing the Company for interest on the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans. Until each Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender
funds its Daily Simple SOFR Committed Loan or risk participation pursuant to this Section 2.12 to refinance such Used Vehicle Floorplan
Lender’s Applicable Used Vehicle Floorplan Percentage of any Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan, interest in respect of such Applicable
Used Vehicle Floorplan Percentage shall be solely for the account of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender.
(f)
Payments Directly to Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender. The Company shall make all payments of principal and
interest in respect of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans directly to the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender.
2.13
Prepayments.
(a)
In addition to the required payments of principal of Revolving Loans, New Vehicle Floorplan Loans and Used Vehicle
Floorplan Loans set forth in Section 2.15 and prepayments of New
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Vehicle Floorplan Loans (solely for the purposes of calculating interest on such Loans) made by payments by the New Vehicle Borrowers into
the New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account pursuant to Section 2.09, the Company may, pursuant to delivery by the Company to the
Administrative Agent of a Notice of Loan Prepayment, at any time or from time to time voluntarily prepay Revolving Committed Loans, New
Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans or Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans in whole or in part without premium or penalty; provided
that (i) such notice must be received by the Administrative Agent not later than 1:00 p.m. on the date of prepayment of such Loans; (ii) any
prepayment of Loans shall be in a principal amount of $500,000 or a whole multiple of $100,000 in excess thereof or, in each case, if less, the
entire principal amount thereof then outstanding. Each such notice shall specify the date and amount of such prepayment, whether such
prepayment is applicable to the Revolving Committed Loans, New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans or Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed
Loans and the Type(s) of Loans to be prepaid. The Administrative Agent will promptly notify each applicable Lender of its receipt of each such
notice, and of the amount of such Lender’s Applicable Revolving Percentage, Applicable New Vehicle Floorplan Percentage or Applicable
Used Vehicle Floorplan Percentage, as applicable, of such prepayment. If such notice is given by the Company, the Company shall make such
prepayment and the payment amount specified in such notice shall be due and payable on the date specified therein. Subject to Section 2.27,
each such prepayment of Revolving Committed Loans of the Revolving Lenders shall be applied in accordance with their respective Applicable
Revolving Percentages; each such prepayment of New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans of the New Vehicle Floorplan Lenders shall be
applied in accordance with their respective Applicable New Vehicle Floorplan Percentages; and each such prepayment of Used Vehicle
Floorplan Committed Loans of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Lenders shall be applied in accordance with their respective Applicable Used
Vehicle Floorplan Percentages.
(b)
At any time during which a Revolving Autoborrow Agreement is not in effect, the Company may, pursuant to delivery by the
Company to the Revolving Swing Line Lender of a Notice of Loan Prepayment (with a copy to the Administrative Agent), at any time or from
time to time, voluntarily prepay Revolving Swing Line Loans in whole or in part without premium or penalty; provided that (i) such notice
must be received by the Revolving Swing Line Lender and the Administrative Agent not later than 1:00 p.m. on the date of the prepayment,
and (ii) any such prepayment shall be in a minimum principal amount of $100,000 (or, if less, the entire principal amount thereof outstanding).
Each such notice shall specify the date and amount of such prepayment. If such notice is given by the Company, the Company shall make such
prepayment and the payment amount specified in such notice shall be due and payable on the date specified therein.
(c)
Subject to the terms of any New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement, the Company may, at any time or from time to time,
voluntarily prepay New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans in whole or in part without premium or penalty, provided that the Company has
entered the amount of such prepayment and other required information (including the make, model and vehicle identification number of each
respective New Vehicle) in the Floorplan On-Line System not later than 7:00 p.m. on the date of the prepayment. The Company shall make
such prepayment and the payment amount entered by the Company shall be due and payable on the date such information is timely entered in
the Floorplan On-Line System.
(d)
At any time during which a Used Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement is not in effect, the Company may, pursuant to delivery by
the Company to the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender of a Notice of Loan Prepayment (with a copy to the Administrative Agent), at
any time or from time to time, voluntarily prepay Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans in whole or in part without premium or penalty;
provided that (i) such notice must be received by the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender not later than 1:00 p.m. on the date of the
prepayment and (ii) any such prepayment shall be in a minimum principal amount of $100,000 (or, if less, the entire principal amount thereof
outstanding). Each such notice shall specify the date and amount of such prepayment. If such notice is given by the Company, the Company
shall make such prepayment and the payment amount specified in such notice shall be due and payable on the dated specified therein.
(e)
If for any reason the Total Revolving Outstandings at any time exceed the lesser of (1) the Revolving Borrowing Base or (2)
the Aggregate Revolving Commitments then in effect, the Company shall immediately prepay Loans and/or Cash Collateralize the L/C
Obligations in an aggregate amount
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equal to such excess; provided, however, that the Company shall not be required to Cash Collateralize the L/C Obligations pursuant to this
Section 2.13(e) unless after the prepayment in full of the Revolving Loans the Total Revolving Outstandings exceed the lesser of (1) the
Revolving Borrowing Base or (2) the Aggregate Revolving Commitments then in effect.
(f)
If for any reason the Total New Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings at any time exceed the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan
Commitments then in effect, the Borrowers (jointly and severally) shall immediately prepay New Vehicle Floorplan Loans in an aggregate
amount sufficient to eliminate such excess.
(g)
If for any reason the Total Used Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings at any time exceed the lesser of the Aggregate Used Vehicle
Floorplan Commitments then in effect or the Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base then in effect, the Borrowers (jointly and severally) shall
immediately prepay Used Vehicle Floorplan Loans in an aggregate amount sufficient to eliminate such excess.
(h)
If for any reason the aggregate Outstanding Amount of Revolving Swing Line Loans exceeds the Revolving Swing Line
Sublimit, the Company shall immediately prepay Revolving Swing Line Loans in an aggregate amount sufficient to eliminate such excess.
(i)
If for any reason, the Outstanding Amount of New Vehicle Floorplan Loans exceeds any applicable Within Line Limitation
(unless otherwise agreed to by the Administrative Agent), the Borrowers (jointly and severally) shall immediately prepay New Vehicle
Floorplan Loans in an aggregate amount sufficient to eliminate such excess.
(j)
If for any reason the aggregate Outstanding Amount of Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans exceeds the Used Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Sublimit, the Company shall immediately prepay Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans in an aggregate amount
sufficient to eliminate such excess.
2.14
Termination, Reduction or Conversion of Commitments.
(a)
The Company may, upon notice to the Administrative Agent, terminate the Aggregate Revolving Commitments, Aggregate
New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments or the Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments, or from time to time permanently reduce the
Aggregate Revolving Commitments, Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments or the Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments;
provided that (i) any such notice shall be received by the Administrative Agent not later than 1:00 p.m. fifteen (15) days prior to the date of
termination or reduction, (ii) any such partial reduction shall be in an aggregate amount of $10,000,000 or any whole multiple of $1,000,000 in
excess thereof, (iii) the Company shall not terminate or reduce the Aggregate Revolving Commitments if, after giving effect thereto and to any
concurrent prepayments hereunder, the Total Revolving Outstandings would exceed the lesser of the Aggregate Revolving Commitments or the
Revolving Borrowing Base, (iv) the Company shall not terminate or reduce the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments if, after giving
effect thereto and to any concurrent prepayments hereunder, the Total New Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings would exceed the Aggregate New
Vehicle Floorplan Commitments, (v) the Company shall not terminate or reduce the Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments if, after
giving effect thereto and to any concurrent prepayments hereunder, the Total Used Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings would exceed the lesser of
the Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments or the Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base, (vi) if, after giving effect to any reduction
of the Aggregate Revolving Commitments, the Letter of Credit Sublimit or the Revolving Swing Line Sublimit exceeds the amount of the
Aggregate Revolving Commitments, such Sublimit shall be automatically reduced by the amount of such excess, (vii) if, after giving effect to
any reduction of the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments, the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Sublimit exceeds the amount of
the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments, such Sublimit shall be automatically reduced by the amount of such excess, (viii) if, after
giving effect to any reduction of the Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments, the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Sublimit
exceeds the amount of the Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments, such Sublimit shall be automatically reduced by the amount of
such excess and (ix) following any such termination or reduction (other than when the Aggregate Revolving Commitments are terminated in
full), the Aggregate Revolving Commitments shall be no less than
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$50,000,000 and no more than 40% of the Aggregate Commitments then in effect. In connection with any reduction of the Aggregate New
Vehicle Floorplan Commitments, the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender in its discretion may suspend and/or terminate all or a portion
of the then outstanding Payment Commitments or Payoff Letter Commitments which shall be promptly selected by the Company, in an amount
that corresponds to the size of said reduction. The Administrative Agent will promptly notify the applicable Lenders of any such notice of
termination or reduction of the Aggregate Commitments. Any reduction of the Aggregate Revolving Commitments, Aggregate New Vehicle
Floorplan Commitments or Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments shall be applied to the Commitment of each Lender in accordance with (x)
its respective Applicable Revolving Percentage, (y) its respective Applicable New Vehicle Floorplan Percentage and (z) its respective
Applicable Used Vehicle Floorplan Percentage, as the case may be. All fees accrued until the effective date of any termination of the Aggregate
Commitments shall be paid on the effective date of such termination.
(b)
At any time there exists any portion of the Aggregate Revolving Commitments in excess of the Total Revolving Outstandings
(such excess amount being referred to as the “unused portion”), and provided that, unless otherwise approved by the Administrative Agent in
its sole discretion, no Default shall have occurred and be continuing, the Company may, by delivering to the Administrative Agent and in the
case of a conversion to New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments, the New Vehicle Floorplan Operations Group, a Conversion Notice in
substantially the form of Exhibit P not less than five days prior to the date of such conversion, request the Administrative Agent and the
Lenders to convert all or a part of such unused portion of the Aggregate Revolving Commitments into Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan
Commitments or Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments, provided, the Company shall not make such conversion if, after giving
effect to all such conversions to occur at such time, (i) the Total Revolving Outstandings would exceed the lesser of (x) the Revolving
Borrowing Base or (y) the Aggregate Revolving Commitments, (ii) the aggregate amount of Revolving Commitments converted to New
Vehicle Floorplan Commitments or Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments to occur at such time would exceed the lesser of (x) 40% of the
Aggregate Commitments then in effect or (y) the Available Unused Revolving Commitments or (iii) the Aggregate Revolving Commitments
would be less than $50,000,000 or more than 40% of the Aggregate Commitments then in effect, provided further, following any such
conversion, (i) the percentage of each Lender’s Commitment allocated to the Revolving Credit Facility shall be equal to the percentage of each
other Lender’s Commitment allocated to the Revolving Credit Facility, (ii) the percentage of each Lender’s Commitment allocated to the New
Vehicle Floorplan Facility shall be equal to the percentage of each other Lender’s Commitment allocated to the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility,
(iii) the percentage of each Lender’s Commitment allocated to the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility shall be equal to the percentage of each
other Lender’s Commitment allocated to the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility, and (iv) the commitment fee owing and accruing with respect to
any Revolving Commitments converted into New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments or Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments under this Section
2.14(b) shall be calculated at the Applicable Rate for commitment fees for New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments or Used Vehicle Floorplan
Commitments, as the case may be. Following such notice from the Company to the Administrative Agent and, if applicable, the New Vehicle
Floorplan Operations Group, and subject to the foregoing, the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments or Used Vehicle Floorplan
Commitments, as the case may be, shall upon such request be increased by the amount so requested by the Company, provided further that, the
Aggregate Commitments after giving effect to such conversion shall not exceed the Aggregate Commitments in effect prior to giving effect to
such conversion.
(c)
At any time there exists any portion of (x) the New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments in excess of the Total New Vehicle
Floorplan Outstandings or (y) the Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments in excess of the Total Used Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings (such
excess amount in either of clause (x) or (y) being referred to as the “unused portion”), and provided that, unless otherwise approved by the
Administrative Agent in its sole discretion, no Default shall have occurred and be continuing, the Company may, by delivering to the
Administrative Agent a Conversion Notice in substantially the form of Exhibit P not less than five days prior to the date of such conversion,
request the Administrative Agent and the Lenders to convert all or a part of such unused portion of the New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments or
Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments into Aggregate Revolving Commitments, provided, the Company shall not make such conversion if,
after giving effect thereto, (i) the Total New Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings would exceed the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan
Commitments, (ii) the Used Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings would exceed the lesser of (x) the Used Vehicle Floorplan
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Borrowing Base or (y) the Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments or (iii) Revolving Commitments would be more than 40% of the
Aggregate Commitments then in effect, provided further, following any such conversion, (i) the percentage of each Lender’s Commitment
allocated to the Revolving Credit Facility shall be equal to the percentage of each other Lender’s Commitment allocated to the Revolving
Credit Facility, (ii) the percentage of each Lender’s Commitment allocated to the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility shall be equal to the
percentage of each other Lender’s Commitment allocated to the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility, (iii) the percentage of each Lender’s
Commitment allocated to the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility shall be equal to the percentage of each other Lender’s Commitment allocated to
the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility, and (iv) the commitment fee owing and accruing with respect to any New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments
or Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments converted into Revolving Commitments under this Section 2.14(c) shall be calculated at the
Applicable Rate for commitment fees for Revolving Commitments. Following such notice from the Company to the Administrative Agent and
subject to the foregoing, the Aggregate Revolving Commitments shall upon such request be increased by the amount so requested by the
Company, provided further that, the Aggregate Commitments after giving effect to such conversion shall not exceed the Aggregate
Commitments in effect prior to giving effect to such conversion.
(d)
In connection with the conversions and re-conversions described in clauses (b) and (c) above, the requisite assignments of
outstanding Loans shall be made in such amounts by and between the Lenders, and as directed by the Administrative Agent, to the extent
necessary to keep the outstanding Revolving Committed Loans, New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans, or Used Vehicle Floorplan
Committed Loans, as applicable, ratable with any revised Applicable Percentages with respect to the applicable Committed Loans arising from
any such conversion or re-conversion with the same force and effect as if such assignments were evidenced by applicable Assignments and
Assumptions but without the payment of any related assignment fee, and no other documents or instruments shall be, or shall be required to be,
executed in connection with such assignments (all of which requirements are hereby waived).
2.15
Repayment of Loans.
(a)
Repayment of Revolving Loans.
(i)
The Company shall repay to the Revolving Lenders on the Maturity Date the aggregate principal amount of Revolving
Committed Loans outstanding on such date.
(ii)
At any time the Revolving Autoborrow Agreement is in effect with respect to the Revolving Swing Line Loans, the
Revolving Swing Line Loans shall be repaid (A) in accordance with the terms of such Revolving Autoborrow Agreement and (B) in
any event, on the Maturity Date. At any time the Revolving Autoborrow Agreement is not in effect with respect to the Revolving
Swing Line Loans, the Company shall repay each Revolving Swing Line Loan (X) at any time on demand by the Revolving Swing
Line Lender and (Y) on the Maturity Date.
(b)
Repayment of New Vehicle Floorplan Loans.
(i)
The New Vehicle Borrowers (jointly and severally) shall repay the New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans on the
Maturity Date.
(ii)
At any time the New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement is in effect with respect to the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing
Line Loans, the New Vehicle Borrowers (jointly and severally) shall repay each New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan (A) in
accordance with the terms of such New Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement and (B) on the Maturity Date. At any time the New Vehicle
Autoborrow Agreement is not in effect with respect to the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans, the New Vehicle Borrowers
(jointly and severally) shall repay each New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan on the Maturity Date or promptly following any
demand by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, provided that if the conditions to making a New Vehicle Floorplan
Committed Loan are then satisfied, and if such demand is made at any time other than during an Asbury New Vehicle Control Period,
the New Vehicle Floorplan Lender shall request a New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Borrowing to refinance such New Vehicle
Floorplan Swing
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Line Loan in full (or, if less, to the maximum extent then available under the New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Facility) prior to
making a demand on the New Vehicle Borrowers, and (B) on the Maturity Date.
(iii)
The New Vehicle Borrowers (jointly and severally) shall pay in full an amount equal to the New Vehicle Non-Offset
Floorplan Loan made with respect to any Floored New Vehicle (including any Demonstrator, Rental Vehicle, and other mileaged New
Vehicle) that has been sold or leased (other than the ordinary course lease of a Rental Vehicle) by any New Vehicle Borrower: (A) (1)
with respect to New Vehicles other than those described in (2) below, the earliest to occur of (x) fifteen (15) days after such sale or
lease thereof or (y) with respect any New Vehicle for which cash has been received upon such sale or lease thereof, within five (5) days
of the receipt of such cash, and (2) with respect to Fleet Vehicles, upon the earliest to occur of (aa) thirty (30) days after the date of
such sale or lease (other than the ordinary course lease of a Rental Vehicle) and (bb) two (2) Business Days following receipt of
proceeds from such sale or lease thereof. With respect to each Floored New Vehicle that has not been sold or leased, the New Vehicle
Borrowers (jointly and severally) shall pay in full an amount equal to (i) in the case of any such New Vehicle held as Inventory,
beginning 12 months after the date such New Vehicle is Deemed Floored, in monthly payments of 10% of the original amount of the
New Vehicle Non-Offset Floorplan Loan relating to such New Vehicle for month 12, and 5% of the original amount of the New Vehicle
Non-Offset Floorplan Loan relating to such New Vehicle for each of months 13 and 14, with the final payment in an amount equal to
the remainder of the original amount of such New Vehicle Non-Offset Floorplan Loan (after giving effect to the foregoing curtailment
payments described in this clause (i)) due 15 months after the date such New Vehicle is Deemed Floored, and (ii) in the case of each
Demonstrator, Rental Vehicle, and other mileaged Floored New Vehicle, beginning with the first Automatic Debit Date occurring after
the date such New Vehicle is Deemed To Be A Mileage Vehicle, monthly payments of 2% of the original amount of the New Vehicle
Non-Offset Floorplan Loan relating to such New Vehicle, with the final payment in an amount equal to the remainder of the original
amount of such New Vehicle Non-Offset Floorplan Loan (after giving effect to the foregoing curtailment payments described in this
clause (ii)) due 24 months after the date such New Vehicle is Deemed Floored. Upon the funding thereof, any New Vehicle Floorplan
Overdraft shall be due and payable in full by the New Vehicle Borrowers on the next following Business Day. The Borrowers agree and
acknowledge that no New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account Advance or Floorplan Offset Amount (or distribution thereof by the
Administrative Agent pursuant to Section 2.09(b)(ii)) shall limit the payment requirements set forth in this Section 2.15(b)(iii).
(iv)
Payments required to be made by any New Vehicle Borrower as set forth in Section 2.15(b)(i) and (ii) shall be applied
in the following order: (1) first, to the outstanding principal balance and then to accrued interest on any New Vehicle Floorplan
Overdraft, (2) second, to the outstanding principal balance of New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans, and (3) finally, to the
remaining outstanding principal balance of the New Vehicle Floor Plan Committed Loans. Payments required to be made by any New
Vehicle Borrower as set forth in Section 2.15(b)(iii) shall be applied first to the outstanding principal balance and then to accrued
interest on the New Vehicle Floorplan Loan with respect to the applicable New Vehicle, and then in the order set forth in the sentence
above.
(v)
In the event of any disputed or duplicate New Vehicle Floorplan Loan (each a “Disputed Existing Loan”) being
refinanced or paid down by any New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan or New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan in reliance on
information provided by the Company, any Subsidiary or any existing lender pursuant to any audit, the Borrowers will (jointly and
severally) upon demand, repay any New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan or New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan related to
such Disputed Existing Loan, including accrued interest with respect to such New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan or New Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Loan, regardless of whether such Disputed Existing Loan has been resolved with the prior lender.
(vi)
Without limiting any other rights or obligations hereunder, interest, curtailment and other payments then due pursuant
to this Section 2.15(b) or Section 2.17(b) shall be
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automatically debited on the Automatic Debit Date of each month from a deposit account maintained by the applicable New Vehicle
Borrower with Bank of America (or from any other account designated by the Company) pursuant to the Floorplan On-line System
(provided that if such account is not held with Bank of America, the payments described in this clause (vi) shall be debited one
Business Day prior to the Automatic Debit Date, and provided further that if there are not sufficient funds in such account to pay such
amounts, then the applicable New Vehicle Borrower shall pay such amounts in cash when due).
(vii)
Payments made in respect of any New Vehicle Floorplan Loan must be made through the Floorplan On-Line System
and shall not be effective unless (A) the Company has entered the amount of such payment and other required information (including
the make, model and vehicle identification number of each respective New Vehicle) in the Floorplan On-Line System not later than
7:00 p.m. on the date of the payment, or (B) all New Vehicle Floorplan Loans are being simultaneously paid in full.
(viii)
So long as the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender is also the Administrative Agent, all payments of principal
on New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans shall be delivered to the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender. Once the New
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender has analyzed the outstanding principal amount of the applicable Loans and confirmed the VIN
numbers of the related Vehicles, the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender will turn such payment over to the Administrative
Agent for application to the New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans. Any payment of New Vehicle Floorplan Loans must specify the
VIN number of the applicable Vehicle unless all New Vehicle Floorplan Loans are being simultaneously paid in full.
(c)
Repayment of Used Vehicle Floorplan Loans.
(i)
The Used Vehicle Borrowers (jointly and severally) shall repay each Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan on the
Maturity Date.
(ii)
At any time the Used Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement is in effect with respect to the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing
Line Loans, the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans shall be repaid (A) in accordance with the terms of such Used Vehicle
Autoborrow Agreement and (B) in any event, on the Maturity Date. At any time the Used Vehicle Autoborrow Agreement is not in
effect with respect to the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans, the Used Vehicle Borrowers (jointly and severally) shall repay
each Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan on the Maturity Date or promptly following any demand by the Used Vehicle Floorplan
Swing Line Lender.
2.16
Interest.
(a)
Subject to the provisions of subsections (b), (c) and (d) below, (i) each Daily Simple SOFR Committed Loan shall bear interest
on the outstanding principal amount thereof from the applicable borrowing date at a rate per annum equal to Daily Simple SOFR plus the
Applicable Rate; (ii) each Base Rate Committed Loan shall bear interest on the outstanding principal amount thereof from the applicable
borrowing date at a rate per annum equal to the Base Rate plus the Applicable Rate; and (iii) each Swing Line Loan shall bear interest on the
outstanding principal amount thereof from the applicable borrowing date at a rate per annum equal to Daily Simple SOFR plus the Applicable
Rate or the Base Rate plus the Applicable Rate, as applicable.
(b)
Application of Floorplan Principal Reduction to New Vehicle Floorplan Loans. Subject to the terms and conditions of Section
2.09(b), the interest payable for any day with respect to the New Vehicle Floorplan Loans reduced by Section 2.09(b) will be reduced in an
aggregate amount equal to (A) the Applicable Floorplan Principal Reduction for such day multiplied by (B) the per annum interest rate
otherwise applicable to such New Vehicle Floorplan Loans for such day.
(c)
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(i)
If any amount of principal of any Loan is not paid when due (without regard to any applicable grace periods), whether
at stated maturity, by acceleration or otherwise, such amount shall thereafter bear interest at a fluctuating interest rate per annum at all
times equal to the Default Rate to the fullest extent permitted by applicable Laws.
(ii)
If any amount (other than principal of any Loan) payable by any Borrower under any Loan Document is not paid when
due (without regard to any applicable grace periods), whether at stated maturity, by acceleration or otherwise, then upon the request of
the Required Lenders, such amount shall thereafter bear interest at a fluctuating interest rate per annum at all times equal to the Default
Rate to the fullest extent permitted by applicable Laws.
(iii)
Upon the request of the Required Lenders, while any Event of Default exists (other than as set forth in clauses (c)(i)
and (c)(ii) above), the applicable Borrowers shall pay interest on the principal amount of all outstanding Obligations hereunder at a
fluctuating interest rate per annum at all times equal to the Default Rate to the fullest extent permitted by applicable Laws.
(iv)
Accrued and unpaid interest on past due amounts (including interest on past due interest) shall be due and payable
upon demand.
(d)
Interest on each Loan shall be due and payable in arrears on each Interest Payment Date applicable thereto and at such other
times as may be specified herein. Interest hereunder shall be due and payable in accordance with the terms hereof before and after judgment,
and before and after the commencement of any proceeding under any Debtor Relief Law.
2.17
Fees. In addition to certain fees described in subsections (h) and (i) of Section 2.03:
(a)
Commitment Fees. The Company shall pay to the Administrative Agent for the account of each Revolving Lender in
accordance with its Applicable Revolving Percentage, a commitment fee equal to the Applicable Rate times the actual daily amount by which
the Aggregate Revolving Commitments exceed the sum of (i) the Outstanding Amount of Revolving Committed Loans and (ii) the Outstanding
Amount of L/C Obligations, subject to adjustment as provided in Section 2.27. The Borrowers (jointly and severally) shall pay to the
Administrative Agent for the account of each New Vehicle Floorplan Lender in accordance with its Applicable New Vehicle Floorplan
Percentage, a commitment fee equal to the Applicable Rate times the actual daily amount by which the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan
Commitments exceed the Outstanding Amount of New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans (as calculated after giving effect to any Applicable
Floorplan Principal Reduction in accordance with Section 2.09), subject to adjustment as provided in Section 2.27. The Borrowers (jointly and
severally) shall pay to the Administrative Agent for the account of each Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender in accordance with its Applicable Used
Vehicle Floorplan Percentage, a commitment fee equal to the Applicable Rate times the actual daily amount by which the Aggregate Used
Vehicle Floorplan Commitments exceed the Outstanding Amount of Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans, subject to adjustment as
provided in Section 2.27. The commitment fees shall accrue at all times during the Availability Period, including at any time during which one
or more of the conditions in Article IV is not met, and shall be due and payable quarterly in arrears on the next succeeding Automatic Debit
Date after the end of each March, June, September and December, commencing with the first such date to occur after the Closing Date, and on
the Maturity Date. The commitment fees shall be calculated quarterly in arrears, and if there is any change in the respective Applicable Rate
during any quarter, the actual daily amount shall be computed and multiplied by such Applicable Rate separately for each period during such
quarter that such Applicable Rate was in effect. For purposes of clarity, Revolving Swing Line Loans, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Loans, Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans and amounts in any New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account shall not be included in
calculating the Outstanding Amount of Revolving Committed Loans, New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans or Used Vehicle Floorplan
Committed Loans used in determining the commitment fees set forth above.
(b)
Other Fees.
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(i)
The Company shall pay to the Arranger and the Administrative Agent for their own respective accounts (or for the
accounts of the Lenders, as applicable) fees in the amounts and at the times specified in the Fee Letters. Such fees shall be fully earned
when paid and shall not be refundable for any reason whatsoever.
(ii)
The Company shall pay to the Lenders such fees as shall have been separately agreed upon in writing in the amounts
and at the times so specified. Such fees shall be fully earned when paid and shall not be refundable for any reason whatsoever.
2.18
Computation of Interest and Fees; Retroactive Adjustments of Applicable Rate.
(a)
All computations of interest for Base Rate Loans (including Base Rate Loans determined by reference to Daily Simple SOFR)
shall be made on the basis of a year of 365 or 366 days, as the case may be, and actual days elapsed. All other computations of fees and interest
shall be made on the basis of a 360-day year and actual days elapsed (which results in more fees or interest, as applicable, being paid than if
computed on the basis of a 365-day year). Interest shall accrue on each Loan for the day on which the Loan is made, and shall not accrue on a
Loan, or any portion thereof, for the day on which the Loan or such portion is paid, provided that any Loan that is repaid on the same day on
which it is made shall, subject to Section 2.20(a), bear interest for one day. Each determination by the Administrative Agent of an interest rate
or fee hereunder shall be conclusive and binding for all purposes, absent manifest error.
(b)
If, as a result of any restatement of or other adjustment to the financial statements of the Company or for any other reason, the
Company or the Lenders determine that (i) the Consolidated Total Lease Adjusted Leverage Ratio as calculated by the Company as of any
applicable date was inaccurate and (ii) a proper calculation of the Consolidated Total Lease Adjusted Leverage Ratio would have resulted in
higher pricing for such period, the Company shall immediately and retroactively be obligated to pay to the Administrative Agent for the
account of the applicable Lenders or the applicable L/C Issuer, as the case may be, promptly on demand by the Administrative Agent (or, after
the occurrence of an actual or deemed entry of an order for relief with respect to the Company under the Bankruptcy Code of the United States,
automatically and without further action by the Administrative Agent, any Lender or any L/C Issuer), an amount equal to the excess of the
amount of interest and fees that should have been paid for such period over the amount of interest and fees actually paid for such period. This
paragraph shall not limit the rights of the Administrative Agent, any Lender or any L/C Issuer, as the case may be, under Section 2.03(e)(iii),
2.03(i) or 2.17(b) or under Article VIII. The Company’s obligations under this paragraph shall survive the termination of the Aggregate
Commitments and the repayment of all other Obligations hereunder.
2.19
Evidence of Debt.
(a)
The Credit Extensions made by each Lender shall be evidenced by one or more accounts or records maintained by such Lender
and by the Administrative Agent in the ordinary course of business. The accounts or records maintained by the Administrative Agent and each
Lender shall be conclusive absent manifest error of the amount of the Credit Extensions made by the Lenders to the Borrowers and the interest
and payments thereon. Any failure to so record or any error in doing so shall not, however, limit or otherwise affect the obligation of the
Borrowers hereunder to pay any amount owing with respect to the Obligations. In the event of any conflict between the accounts and records
maintained by any Lender and the accounts and records of the Administrative Agent in respect of such matters, the accounts and records of the
Administrative Agent shall control in the absence of manifest error. Upon the request of any Lender made through the Administrative Agent,
the respective Borrowers under each Facility shall execute and deliver to such Lender (through the Administrative Agent) (i) a Revolving Note,
which shall evidence such Lender’s Revolving Loans, (ii) a New Vehicle Floorplan Note, which shall evidence such Lender’s New Vehicle
Floorplan Loans, and (iii) a Used Vehicle Floorplan Note, which shall evidence such Lender’s Used Vehicle Floorplan Loans, in each case in
addition to such accounts or records. Each Lender may attach schedules to its Notes and endorse thereon the date, Type (if applicable), amount
and maturity of its Loans and payments with respect thereto.
(b)
In addition to the accounts and records referred to in subsection (a), each Lender and the Administrative Agent shall maintain
in accordance with its usual practice accounts or records evidencing
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the purchases and sales by such Lender of participations in Letters of Credit, Revolving Swing Line Loans, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Loans and Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans. In the event of any conflict between the accounts and records maintained by the
Administrative Agent and the accounts and records of any Lender in respect of such matters, the accounts and records of the Administrative
Agent shall control in the absence of manifest error.
2.20
Payments Generally; Administrative Agent’s Clawback.
(a)
General. All payments to be made by any Borrower shall be made free and clear of and without condition or deduction for any
counterclaim, defense, recoupment or setoff. Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, all payments by any Borrower hereunder shall be
made to the Administrative Agent, for the account of the respective Lenders to which such payment is owed, at the Administrative Agent’s
Office in Dollars and in immediately available funds not later than 2:00 p.m. on the date specified herein. The Administrative Agent will
promptly distribute to each Lender its Applicable Revolving Percentage, Applicable New Vehicle Floorplan Percentage or Applicable Used
Vehicle Floorplan Percentage, as applicable (or other applicable share as provided herein) of such payment in like funds as received by wire
transfer to such Lender’s Lending Office. All payments received by the Administrative Agent after 2:00 p.m. shall be deemed received on the
next succeeding Business Day and any applicable interest or fee shall continue to accrue. Subject to the terms of any New Vehicle Autoborrow
Agreement, all payments to be made by any Borrower hereunder to the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender shall be made as follows:
upon a New Vehicle Borrower entering information into the Floorplan On-Line System authorizing the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Lender to debit any amount from such Borrower’s deposit account, such amount will be deemed received by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing
Line Lender at the following times depending on whether the deposit account is maintained at Bank of America and when the request is entered
pursuant to the Floorplan On-Line System:
(i)
if the deposit account is maintained at Bank of America, the amount will be deemed received (A) on the same Business
Day if the request is entered prior to 7:00 p.m. on that day, or (B) on the next Business Day if the request is entered at or after 7:00 p.m.
or is entered on a day that is not a Business Day; and
(ii)
if the deposit account is maintained at any Person other than Bank of America, the amount will be deemed received
(A) on the following Business Day if the request is received prior to 7:00 p.m. on a Business Day, or (B) two Business Days later if the
request is entered at or after 7:00 p.m. or is entered on a day that is not a Business Day.
If any payment to be made by any Borrower shall come due on a day other than a Business Day, payment shall be made on the next
following Business Day, and such extension of time shall be reflected in computing interest or fees, as the case may be.
(b)
(i)
Funding by Lenders; Presumption by Administrative Agent. Unless the Administrative Agent shall have received
notice from a Lender prior to 12:00 noon on the date of any Committed Borrowing that such Lender will not make available to the
Administrative Agent such Lender’s share of such Committed Borrowing, the Administrative Agent may assume that such Lender has
made such share available on such date in accordance with Section 2.02, Section 2.06 or Section 2.11 and may, in reliance upon such
assumption, make available to the Company or applicable Vehicle Borrower a corresponding amount. In such event, if a Lender has not
in fact made its share of the applicable Committed Borrowing available to the Administrative Agent, then the applicable Lender, the
Company and the other Borrowers severally agree to pay to the Administrative Agent forthwith on demand such corresponding amount
in immediately available funds with interest thereon, for each day from and including the date such amount is made available to the
Company or applicable Vehicle Borrower to but excluding the date of payment to the Administrative Agent, at (A) in the case of a
payment to be made by such Lender, the greater of the Federal Funds Rate and a rate determined by the Administrative Agent in
accordance with
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banking industry rules on interbank compensation, plus any administrative, processing or similar fees customarily charged by the
Administrative Agent in connection with the foregoing, and (B) in the case of a payment to be made by the Company or any other
Borrower, the interest rate applicable to Base Rate Loans. If the Company or any other Borrower and such Lender shall pay such
interest to the Administrative Agent for the same or an overlapping period, the Administrative Agent shall promptly remit to the
Company or applicable Vehicle Borrower the amount of such interest paid by the Company or such Borrower for such period. If such
Lender pays its share of the applicable Committed Borrowing to the Administrative Agent, then the amount so paid shall constitute
such Lender’s Loan included in such Committed Borrowing. Any payment by the Company or any other Borrower shall be without
prejudice to any claim the Company or any other Borrower may have against a Lender that shall have failed to make such payment to
the Administrative Agent.
(ii)
Payments by Borrowers; Presumptions by Administrative Agent. Unless the Administrative Agent shall have received
notice from the Company (on its own behalf or on behalf of another Borrower) prior to the date on which any payment is due to the
Administrative Agent for the account of the Lenders or any L/C Issuer hereunder that such Borrower will not make such payment, the
Administrative Agent may assume that such Borrower has made such payment on such date in accordance herewith and may, in
reliance upon such assumption, distribute to the Lenders or such L/C Issuer, as the case may be, the amount due.
(iii)
With respect to any payment that the Administrative Agent makes for the account of the Lenders or any L/C Issuer
hereunder as to which the Administrative Agent determines (which determination shall be conclusive absent manifest error)
that any of the following applies (such payment referred to as the “Rescindable Amount”): (1) the Borrowers have not in fact
made such payment; (2) the Administrative Agent has made a payment in excess of the amount so paid by the Borrowers
(whether or not then owed); or (3) the Administrative agent has for any reason otherwise erroneously made such payment: then
each of the Lenders or the applicable L/C Issuer, as the case may be, severally agrees to repay to the Administrative Agent
forthwith on demand the Rescindable Amount so distributed to such Lender or such L/C Issuer, in immediately available funds
with interest thereon, for each day from and including the date such amount is distributed to it to but excluding the date of
payment to the Administrative Agent, at the greater of the Federal Funds Rate and a rate determined by the Administrative
Agent in accordance with banking industry rules on interbank compensation.
A notice of the Administrative Agent to any Lender or any Borrower with respect to any amount owing under this subsection (b) shall
be conclusive, absent manifest error.
(c)
Failure to Satisfy Conditions Precedent. If any Lender makes available to the Administrative Agent funds for any Loan to be
made by such Lender to any Borrower as provided in the foregoing provisions of this Article II, and such funds are not made available to such
Borrower by the Administrative Agent because the conditions to the applicable Credit Extension set forth in Article IV are not satisfied or
waived in accordance with the terms hereof, the Administrative Agent shall return such funds (in like funds as received from such Lender) to
such Lender, without interest.
(d)
Obligations of Lenders Several. The obligations of the Lenders in each Facility hereunder to make Committed Loans with
respect to such Facility, to fund participations in the applicable Swing Line Loans under such Facility and, if applicable, Letters of Credit and to
make payments pursuant to Section 10.04(c) are several and not joint within each such Facility. The failure of any Lender to make any
Committed Loan, to fund any such participation or to make any payment under Section 10.04(c) on any date required hereunder shall not
relieve any other Lender of its corresponding obligation to do so on such date, and no Lender shall be responsible for the failure of any other
Lender to so make its Committed Loan, to purchase its participation or to make its payment under Section 10.04(c).
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(e)
Funding Source. Nothing herein shall be deemed to obligate any Lender to obtain the funds for any Loan in any particular
place or manner or to constitute a representation by any Lender that it has obtained or will obtain the funds for any Loan in any particular place
or manner.
(f)
Insufficient Funds. If at any time insufficient funds are received by and available to the Administrative Agent to pay fully all
amounts of principal, L/C Borrowings, interest and fees then due hereunder, such funds shall be applied (i) first, toward payment of interest and
fees then due hereunder, ratably among the parties entitled thereto in accordance with the amounts of interest and fees then due to such parties,
and (ii) second, toward payment of principal and L/C Borrowings then due hereunder, ratably among the parties entitled thereto in accordance
with the amounts of principal and L/C Borrowings then due to such parties.
2.21
Sharing of Payments by Lenders. If any Lender shall, by exercising any right of setoff or counterclaim or otherwise, obtain
payment in respect of any principal of or interest on any of the Revolving Committed Loans, New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans, or
Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans made by it, or the participations in L/C Obligations, Revolving Swing Line Loans, New Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Loans or Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans held by it resulting in such Lender’s receiving payment of a
proportion of the aggregate amount of such Revolving Committed Loans, New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans, or Used Vehicle Floorplan
Committed Loans or participations and accrued interest thereon greater than its pro rata share thereof as provided herein, then the Lender
receiving such greater proportion shall (a) notify the Administrative Agent of such fact, and (b) purchase from the other applicable Lenders (in
the respective Revolving Facility, New Vehicle Floorplan Facility or Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility) (for cash at face value) participations in
the applicable Revolving Committed Loans, New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans, or Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans and
subparticipations in L/C Obligations, Revolving Swing Line Loans, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans or Used Vehicle Floorplan
Swing Line Loans of the other Lenders, or make such other adjustments as shall be equitable, so that the benefit of all such payments shall be
shared by the Lenders ratably in accordance with the aggregate amount of principal of and accrued interest on their respective Committed
Loans and other amounts owing them, provided that:
(i)
if any such participations or subparticipations are purchased and all or any portion of the payment giving rise thereto is
recovered, such participations or subparticipations shall be rescinded and the purchase price restored to the extent of such recovery,
without interest; and
(ii)
the provisions of this Section shall not be construed to apply to (x) any payment made by or on behalf of any Borrower
pursuant to and in accordance with the express terms of this Agreement (including the application of funds arising from the existence
of a Defaulting Lender, or payments made under this Agreement to a Non-Extending Lender on its Maturity Date) (y) the application
of Cash Collateral provided for in Section 2.26, or (z) any payment obtained by a Lender as consideration for the assignment of or sale
of a participation in any of its Revolving Committed Loans, New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans or Used Vehicle Floorplan
Committed Loans or subparticipations in L/C Obligations, Revolving Swing Line Loans, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans or
Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans, as the case may be, to any assignee or participant, other than an assignment to the Company
or any Subsidiary thereof (as to which the provisions of this Section shall apply).
Each Borrower consents to the foregoing and agrees, to the extent it may effectively do so under applicable law, that any Lender
acquiring a participation pursuant to the foregoing arrangements may exercise against such Borrower rights of setoff and counterclaim with
respect to such participation as fully as if such Lender were a direct creditor of such Borrower in the amount of such participation.
2.22
Increase in Commitments.
(a)
Request for Increase. Provided there exists no Default, upon notice to the Administrative Agent (which shall promptly notify
the applicable Lenders), the Company may from time to time after the Closing Date, request a simultaneous increase in the Aggregate
Revolving Commitments, the Aggregate
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New Vehicle Floorplan Facility Commitments and the Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments by an aggregate amount (for all such
requests) not exceeding an amount equal to $750,000,000; provided that (i) any such request for an increase shall be in a minimum amount of
$25,000,000, (ii) the Company may make a maximum of two such requests in any fiscal year, (iii) any increase in a Lender’s Commitments
will be allocated pro rata to the Revolving Credit Facility, the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility and the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility so that
the proportion of such Lender’s Commitments allocated to each such Facility is the same immediately before and after such increase, (iv) the
Revolving Credit Facility, the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility and the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility shall be increased by a pro rata amount
which results in approximately the same ratio of commitments existing between the Revolving Credit Facility and the Floorplan Facilities
immediately before and after such increase, and (v) after giving effect to any such increase, Revolving Commitments shall not exceed 40% of
the Aggregate Commitments then in effect. At the time of sending such notice, the Company (in consultation with the Administrative Agent)
shall specify the time period within which each Lender is requested to respond (which shall in no event be less than ten Business Days from the
date of delivery of such notice to the Lenders).
(b)
Lender Elections to Increase. Each Lender shall notify the Administrative Agent within such time period whether or not it
agrees to increase its Revolving Commitment and Floorplan Commitment and, if so, by what amount. Any Lender not responding within such
time period shall be deemed to have declined to increase its Commitment.
(c)
Notification by Administrative Agent; Additional Lenders. The Administrative Agent shall notify the Company and each
Lender of the Lenders’ responses to each request made hereunder. To achieve the full amount of a requested increase and subject to the
approval of the Administrative Agent, the L/C Issuers and the Swing Line Lenders (which approvals shall not be unreasonably withheld or
delayed), the Company may also invite additional Eligible Assignees to become Lenders pursuant to a joinder agreement in form and substance
satisfactory to the Administrative Agent and its counsel.
(d)
Effective Date and Allocations. If the Aggregate Commitments are increased in accordance with this Section, the
Administrative Agent and the Company shall determine the effective date (the “Increase Effective Date”) and the final allocation of such
increase. The Administrative Agent shall promptly notify the Company and the Lenders of the final allocation of such increase and the Increase
Effective Date.
(e)
Conditions to Effectiveness of Increase. As a condition precedent to such increase:
(i)
the Company shall deliver to the Administrative Agent a certificate of each Loan Party dated as of the Increase
Effective Date signed by a Responsible Officer of the Company (x) certifying that such increase has been duly authorized and approved
by all necessary corporate or other organizational action of the Loan Parties (and, if not previously delivered, attaching a copy of the
relevant corporate or other organizational action of such Loan Parties), and (y) certifying that, immediately before and after giving
effect to such increase, (A) the representations and warranties contained in Article V and the other Loan Documents are true and
correct in all material respects on and as of the Increase Effective Date, except to the extent that such representations and warranties
specifically refer to an earlier date, in which case they are true and correct in all material respects as of such earlier date, and except
that for purposes of this Section 2.22, the representations and warranties contained in subsections (a) and (b) of Section 5.05 shall be
deemed to refer to the most recent statements furnished pursuant to clauses (a) and (b), respectively, of Section 6.01, and (B) no Default
exists; provided, that, with respect to any Increase in Commitments the proceeds of which are intended to be and are actually used to
finance one or more Permitted Acquisitions which are subject to customary “certain funds provisions”, such certifications and
representations (and the conditions to making the Loans to finance such Permitted Acquisition(s)) may be modified to reflect
customary “certain funds provisions” as agreed to by the Administrative Agent and the Company;
(ii)
the Company shall deliver to the Administrative Agent a duly completed Pro Forma Compliance Certificate dated as of
the applicable Increase Effective Date signed by a Responsible Officer of the Company demonstrating Pro Forma Compliance as
required by clause
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(i) of the definition thereof after giving effect to such increase (and any other increase under this Section incurred at any time after the
date of the financial statements used to determine such Pro Forma Compliance);
(iii)
the Company shall deliver to the Administrative Agent a duly completed Pro Forma Revolving Borrowing Base
Certificate in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent dated as of the date of such increase certifying as
to the Revolving Borrowing Base as of the end of the most recently ended fiscal quarter prior to such increase, giving pro forma effect
to such increase signed by a Responsible Officer of the Company;
(iv)
the Company shall deliver to the Administrative Agent a duly completed Pro Forma Used Vehicle Floorplan
Borrowing Base Certificate in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent dated as of the date of such
increase certifying as to the Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base as of the end of the most recently ended month prior to such
increase, giving pro forma effect to such increase signed by a Responsible Officer of the Company;
(v)
upon the reasonable request of any Lender made at least ten (10) days prior to the closing date of such increase, the
Company shall have provided to such Lender the documentation and other information so requested in connection with applicable
“know your customer” and anti-money-laundering rules and regulations, including the PATRIOT Act, in each case at least five days
prior to such closing date;
(vi)
at least five days prior to the closing date of such increase, if any Loan Party qualifies as a “legal entity customer”
under the Beneficial Ownership Regulation (31 C.F.R. § 1010.230), it shall deliver to the Administrative Agent and each Lender a
Beneficial Ownership Certification in relation to such Loan Party.
(f)
Conflicting Provisions. This Section shall supersede any provisions in Section 2.21 or 10.01 to the contrary.
2.23
Extension of Maturity Date.
(a)
Requests for Extension. The Company may, no more than one time per Loan Year, by notice to the Administrative Agent (who
shall promptly notify the Lenders) not earlier than 60 days and not later than 35 days prior to the Anniversary Date in such Loan Year, request
that each Lender extend such Lender’s Maturity Date for an additional 364 days from the Existing Maturity Date.
(b)
Lender Elections to Extend. Each Lender, acting in its sole and individual discretion, shall, by notice to the Administrative
Agent given not later than the date (the “Notice Date”) that is 20 days prior to the Anniversary Date in such Loan Year, advise the
Administrative Agent whether or not such Lender agrees to such extension (and each Lender that determines not to so extend its Maturity Date
(a “Non-Extending Lender”) shall notify the Administrative Agent of such fact promptly after such determination (but in any event no later
than the Notice Date) and any Lender that does not so advise the Administrative Agent on or before the Notice Date shall be deemed to be a
Non-Extending Lender. The election of any Lender to agree to such extension shall not obligate any other Lender to so agree.
(c)
Notification by Administrative Agent. The Administrative Agent shall notify the Company of each Lender’s determination
under this Section no later than the date 15 days prior to the Anniversary Date in such Loan Year (or, if such date is not a Business Day, on the
next preceding Business Day).
(d)
Additional Commitment Lenders. The Borrowers shall have the right to replace each Non-Extending Lender with, and add as
“Lenders” under this Agreement in place thereof, one or more Eligible Assignees (each, an “Additional Commitment Lender”) as provided in
Section 10.13; provided that each of such Additional Commitment Lenders shall enter into an Assignment and Assumption pursuant to which
such Additional Commitment Lender shall, effective as of the Anniversary Date in
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such Loan Year, undertake a Commitment (and, if any such Additional Commitment Lender is already a Lender, its Commitment shall be in
addition to such Lender’s Commitment hereunder on such date).
(e)
Minimum Extension Requirement. If (and only if) the total of the Commitments of the Lenders that have agreed so to extend
their Maturity Date (each, an “Extending Lender”) and the additional Commitments of the Additional Commitment Lenders shall be more than
80% of the aggregate amount of the Commitments in effect immediately prior to the Anniversary Date in such Loan Year, then, effective as of
the Anniversary Date in such Loan Year, the Maturity Date of each Extending Lender and of each Additional Commitment Lender shall be
extended to the date falling one year after the Existing Maturity Date (except that, if such date is not a Business Day, such Maturity Date as so
extended shall be the next preceding Business Day) and each Additional Commitment Lender shall thereupon become a “Lender” for all
purposes of this Agreement.
(f)
Conditions to Effectiveness of Extensions. As a condition precedent to such extension, the Company shall deliver to the
Administrative Agent a certificate of each Loan Party dated as of the Anniversary Date in such Loan Year signed by a Responsible Officer of
such Loan Party (i) certifying and attaching the resolutions adopted by such Loan Party approving or consenting to such extension and (ii) in
the case of the Borrower, certifying that, immediately before and after giving effect to such extension, (A) the representations and warranties
contained in Article V and the other Loan Documents are true and correct in all material respects (or in all respects in the case of any
representation and warranty qualified by materiality or Material Adverse Effect) on and as of the Anniversary Date in such Loan Year, except to
the extent that such representations and warranties specifically refer to an earlier date, in which case they are true and correct in all material
respects (or in all respects in the case of any representation and warranty qualified by materiality or Material Adverse Effect) as of such earlier
date, and except that for purposes of this Section 2.14, the representations and warranties contained in clauses (a) and (b) of Section 5.05 shall
be deemed to refer to the most recent statements furnished pursuant to clauses (a) and (b), respectively, of Section 6.01, and (B) no Default
exists or would result therefrom. In addition, on the Maturity Date of each Non-Extending Lender, the Borrowers shall prepay any Committed
Loans outstanding on such date (and pay any additional amounts required pursuant to Section 3.05) to the extent necessary to keep outstanding
Committed Loans ratable with any revised Applicable Percentages of the respective Lenders effective as of such date.
(g)
Amendment; Sharing of Payments. In connection with any extension of the Maturity Date, the Borrowers, the Administrative
Agent and each extending Lender may make such amendments to this Agreement as the Administrative Agent determines to be reasonably
necessary to evidence the extension. This Section 2.23 shall supersede any provisions in Section 2.13 or 10.01 to the contrary.
2.24
New Vehicle Borrowers.
(a)
Effective as of the date hereof, each Subsidiary that has executed this Agreement as a New Vehicle Borrower shall be a “New
Vehicle Borrower” hereunder and may receive New Vehicle Floorplan Loans for its account on the terms and conditions set forth in this
Agreement; provided, that (i) any Subsidiary that owns or operates a Ford or Lincoln dealership or (ii) any Subsidiary that is a Foreign
Subsidiary shall not be required to become a New Vehicle Borrower.
(b)
If, at any time, any Subsidiary engages in the sale or leasing of Vehicles, the Company shall (or, in the case of (i) any
Subsidiary which owns or operates solely a Ford or Lincoln dealership or (ii) any Subsidiary that is a Foreign Subsidiary, may) designate such
Subsidiary as a New Vehicle Borrower and shall deliver to the Administrative Agent, pursuant to Section 6.14 or otherwise, a Joinder
Agreement executed by such Subsidiary identifying such Subsidiary as a New Vehicle Borrower; provided that a New Vehicle Borrower shall
not be required to execute a Joinder Agreement if such New Vehicle Borrower has executed and delivered this Agreement on the Closing Date.
The parties hereto acknowledge and agree that prior to any such Subsidiary becoming entitled to utilize the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility the
Administrative Agent, the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, and the other Lenders shall have received the documents required by
Section 6.14. Upon satisfaction of the foregoing requirements, each of the New Vehicle Floorplan Lenders agrees to permit such New Vehicle
Borrower to receive New Vehicle Floorplan Loans, hereunder, on the terms and conditions set forth
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herein, and each of the parties agrees that such New Vehicle Borrower otherwise shall be a Borrower for all purposes of this Agreement.
(c)
Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, each New Vehicle Borrower shall be jointly and severally liable as a
primary obligor, and not merely as surety, for any and all Obligations under the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility now or hereafter owed to the
Administrative Agent, the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and the New Vehicle Floorplan Lenders or related fees, in each case,
whether voluntary or involuntary and however arising, whether direct or acquired by any Lender by assignment or succession, whether due or
not due, absolute or contingent, liquidated or unliquidated, determined or undetermined (such Obligations, the “New Vehicle Floorplan Facility
Liabilities”).
(d)
With respect to the New Vehicle Borrowers’ joint and several liability as provided hereunder, each New Vehicle Borrower
expressly waives any and all defenses now or hereafter arising or asserted by reason of (i) any lack of legality, validity or enforceability of this
Agreement, of any of the Notes, of any other Loan Document, or of any other agreement or instrument creating, providing security for, or
otherwise relating to any of the Obligations or any guaranty of any of the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility Liabilities (the Loan Documents and
all such other agreements and instruments being collectively referred to as the “Related Agreements”); (ii) any action taken under any of the
Related Agreements, any exercise of any right or power therein conferred, any failure or omission to enforce any right conferred thereby, or any
waiver of any covenant or condition therein provided; (iii) any acceleration of the maturity of any of the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility
Liabilities or of any other obligations or liabilities of any Person under any of the Related Agreements; (iv) any release, exchange, non-
perfection, lapse in perfection, disposal, deterioration in value, or impairment of any security for any of the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility
Liabilities, or for any other obligations or liabilities of any Person under any of the Related Agreements; (v) any dissolution of any Borrower,
any Loan Party or any other party to a Related Agreement, or the combination or consolidation of any Borrower, any Loan Party or any other
party to a Related Agreement into or with another entity or any transfer or disposition of any assets of any Borrower, any Loan Party or any
other party to a Related Agreement; (vi) any extension (including without limitation extensions of time for payment), renewal, amendment,
restructuring or restatement of, any acceptance of late or partial payments under, or any change in the amount of any borrowings or any credit
facilities available under, this Agreement, any of the Notes or any other Loan Document or any other Related Agreement, in whole or in part;
(vii) the existence, addition, modification, termination, reduction or impairment of value, or release of any other guaranty (or security therefor)
of the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility Liabilities; (viii) any waiver of, forbearance or indulgence under, or other consent to any change in or
departure from any term or provision contained in this Agreement, any other Loan Document or any other Related Agreement, including
without limitation any term pertaining to the payment or performance of any of the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility Liabilities, or any of the
obligations or liabilities of any party to any other Related Agreement; and (ix) any other circumstance whatsoever (with or without notice to or
knowledge of such New Vehicle Borrower) which may or might in any manner or to any extent vary the risks of such New Vehicle Borrower,
or might otherwise constitute a legal or equitable defense available to, or discharge of, a surety or a guarantor, including without limitation any
right to require or claim that resort be had to any Borrower or any other Loan Party or to any collateral in respect of the New Vehicle Floorplan
Facility Liabilities. It is the express purpose and intent of the parties hereto that the joint and several liability of each New Vehicle Borrower for
the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility Liabilities shall be absolute and unconditional under any and all circumstances and shall not be discharged
except by payment as herein provided. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the liability of each New Vehicle Borrower with respect to its New
Vehicle Floorplan Facility Liabilities shall be limited to an aggregate amount equal to the largest amount that would not render its obligations
hereunder subject to avoidance under Section 548 of the Bankruptcy Code of the United States or any comparable provisions of any applicable
state law.
(e)
Each Subsidiary that is or becomes a “New Vehicle Borrower” pursuant to this Section 2.24 hereby irrevocably appoints the
Company as its agent for all purposes relevant to this Agreement and each of the other Loan Documents, including (i) the giving and receipt of
notices, (ii) the execution and delivery of all documents, instruments and certificates contemplated herein and all modifications hereto, and (iii)
the receipt of the proceeds of any New Vehicle Floorplan Loans made by the Lenders to any such New Vehicle Borrower hereunder. Any
acknowledgment, consent, direction, certification or other action
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which might otherwise be valid or effective only if given or taken by all Borrowers, or by any Borrower acting singly, shall be valid and
effective if given or taken only by the Company, whether or not any such other Borrower joins therein. Any notice, demand, consent,
acknowledgement, direction, certification or other communication delivered to the Company in accordance with the terms of this Agreement
shall be deemed to have been delivered to the Company and each New Vehicle Borrower.
2.25
Used Vehicle Borrowers.
(a)
Effective as of the date hereof, each Subsidiary that has executed this Agreement shall be a “Used Vehicle Borrower”
hereunder and may receive Used Vehicle Floorplan Loans for its account on the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.
(b)
If, at any time, any Subsidiary engages in the sale or leasing of Vehicles, the Company shall designate such Subsidiary as a
Used Vehicle Borrower and shall deliver to the Administrative Agent, pursuant to Section 6.14 or otherwise, a Joinder Agreement executed by
such Subsidiary identifying such Subsidiary as a Used Vehicle Borrower; provided that a Used Vehicle Borrower shall not be required to
execute a Joinder Agreement if such Used Vehicle Borrower has executed and delivered this Agreement on the Closing Date and provided
further that no Subsidiary that is a Foreign Subsidiary shall become a Used Vehicle Borrower. The parties hereto acknowledge and agree that
prior to any such Subsidiary becoming entitled to utilize the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility the Administrative Agent and the other Lenders
shall have received the documents required by Section 6.14. Upon satisfaction of the foregoing requirements, each of the Used Vehicle
Floorplan Lenders agrees to permit such Used Vehicle Borrower to receive Used Vehicle Floorplan Loans, other than Used Vehicle Floorplan
Swing Line Loans, hereunder, on the terms and conditions set forth herein, and each of the parties agrees that such Used Vehicle Borrower
otherwise shall be a Borrower for all purposes of this Agreement.
(c)
Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, each Used Vehicle Borrower shall be jointly and severally liable as a
primary obligor, and not merely as surety, for any and all Obligations under the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility now or hereafter owed to the
Administrative Agent and the Used Vehicle Floorplan Lenders with respect to Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans or related fees, in each
case, whether voluntary or involuntary and however arising, whether direct or acquired by any Lender by assignment or succession, whether
due or not due, absolute or contingent, liquidated or unliquidated, determined or undetermined (such Obligations, the “Used Vehicle Floorplan
Facility Liabilities”).
(d)
With respect to the Used Vehicle Borrowers’ joint and several liability as provided hereunder, each Used Vehicle Borrower
expressly waives any and all defenses now or hereafter arising or asserted by reason of (i) any lack of legality, validity or enforceability of this
Agreement or any of the Related Agreement; (ii) any action taken under any of the Related Agreements, any exercise of any right or power
therein conferred, any failure or omission to enforce any right conferred thereby, or any waiver of any covenant or condition therein provided;
(iii) any acceleration of the maturity of any of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility Liabilities or of any other obligations or liabilities of any
Person under any of the Related Agreements; (iv) any release, exchange, non-perfection, lapse in perfection, disposal, deterioration in value, or
impairment of any security for any of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility Liabilities, or for any other obligations or liabilities of any Person
under any of the Related Agreements; (v) any dissolution of any Borrower, any Loan Party or any other party to a Related Agreement, or the
combination or consolidation of any Borrower, any Loan Party or any other party to a Related Agreement into or with another entity or any
transfer or disposition of any assets of any Borrower, any Loan Party or any other party to a Related Agreement; (vi) any extension (including
without limitation extensions of time for payment), renewal, amendment, restructuring or restatement of, any acceptance of late or partial
payments under, or any change in the amount of any borrowings or any credit facilities available under, this Agreement, any of the Notes or any
other Loan Document or any other Related Agreement, in whole or in part; (vii) the existence, addition, modification, termination, reduction or
impairment of value, or release of any other guaranty (or security therefor) of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility Liabilities; (viii) any waiver
of, forbearance or indulgence under, or other consent to any change in or departure from any term or provision contained in this Agreement,
any other Loan Document or any other Related Agreement, including without limitation any term pertaining to the payment or performance of
any of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility Liabilities, or any of the obligations or liabilities of any party to any
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other Related Agreement; and (ix) any other circumstance whatsoever (with or without notice to or knowledge of such Used Vehicle Borrower)
which may or might in any manner or to any extent vary the risks of such Used Vehicle Borrower, or might otherwise constitute a legal or
equitable defense available to, or discharge of, a surety or a guarantor, including without limitation any right to require or claim that resort be
had to any Borrower or any other Loan Party or to any collateral in respect of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility Liabilities. It is the express
purpose and intent of the parties hereto that the joint and several liability of each Used Vehicle Borrower for the Used Vehicle Floorplan
Facility Liabilities shall be absolute and unconditional under any and all circumstances and shall not be discharged except by payment as herein
provided. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the liability of each Used Vehicle Borrower (other than the Company) with respect to its Used Vehicle
Floorplan Facility Liabilities shall be limited to an aggregate amount equal to the largest amount that would not render its obligations hereunder
subject to avoidance under Section 548 of the Bankruptcy Code of the United States or any comparable provisions of any applicable state law.
(e)
Each Subsidiary that is or becomes a “Used Vehicle Borrower” pursuant to this Section 2.25 hereby irrevocably appoints the
Company as its agent for all purposes relevant to this Agreement and each of the other Loan Documents, including (i) the giving and receipt of
notices, (ii) the execution and delivery of all documents, instruments and certificates contemplated herein and all modifications hereto, and (iii)
the receipt of the proceeds of any Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans made by the Lenders to any such Used Vehicle Borrower
hereunder. Any acknowledgment, consent, direction, certification or other action which might otherwise be valid or effective only if given or
taken by all Borrowers, or by any Borrower acting singly, shall be valid and effective if given or taken only by the Company, whether or not
any such other Borrower joins therein. Any notice, demand, consent, acknowledgement, direction, certification or other communication
delivered to the Company in accordance with the terms of this Agreement shall be deemed to have been delivered to each Used Vehicle
Borrower.
2.26
Cash Collateral.
(a)
Certain Credit Support Events. Upon the request of the Administrative Agent or an L/C Issuer (i) if an L/C Issuer has honored
any full or partial drawing request under any Letter of Credit and such drawing has resulted in an L/C Borrowing, or (ii) if, as of the Letter of
Credit Expiration Date, any L/C Obligation for any reason remains outstanding, the Borrowers shall, in each case, immediately Cash
Collateralize the then Outstanding Amount of all L/C Obligations (or in the case of clause (i), the amount of such L/C Borrowing). At any time
that there shall exist a Defaulting Lender, immediately upon the request of the Administrative Agent, any L/C Issuer or any Swing Line Lender,
the Borrowers, jointly and severally, shall deliver to the Administrative Agent Cash Collateral in an amount sufficient to cover all Fronting
Exposure (after giving effect to Section 2.27(a)(iv) and any Cash Collateral provided by the Defaulting Lender).
(b)
Grant of Security Interest. All Cash Collateral (other than credit support not constituting funds subject to deposit) shall be
maintained in blocked, non-interest bearing deposit accounts at Bank of America. The Borrowers, and to the extent provided by any Lender,
such Lender, hereby grants to (and subjects to the control of) the Administrative Agent, for the benefit of the Administrative Agent, the L/C
Issuer and the Lenders (including the Swing Line Lenders), and agrees to maintain, a first priority security interest in all such cash, deposit
accounts and all balances therein so provided as collateral pursuant hereto, and in all proceeds of the foregoing, all as security for the
obligations to which such Cash Collateral may be applied pursuant to Section 2.26(c). If at any time the Administrative Agent determines that
Cash Collateral is subject to any right or claim of any Person other than the Administrative Agent or an L/C Issuer as herein provided, or that
the total amount of such Cash Collateral is less than the applicable Fronting Exposure and other obligations secured thereby, the Borrowers or
the relevant Defaulting Lender will, promptly upon demand by the Administrative Agent, pay or provide to the Administrative Agent additional
Cash Collateral in an amount sufficient to eliminate such deficiency.
(c)
Application. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, Cash Collateral provided under any of this
Section 2.26 or Sections 2.03, 2.04, 2.07, 2.12, 2.13, 2.27, 8.02 or 8.04 in respect of Letters of Credit or Swing Line Loans shall be held and
applied to the satisfaction of the specific L/C Obligations, Swing Line Loans, obligations to fund participations therein (including, as
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to Cash Collateral provided by a Defaulting Lender, any interest accrued on such obligation) and other obligations for which the Cash
Collateral was so provided, prior to any other application of such property as may be provided for herein.
(d)
Release. Cash Collateral (or the appropriate portion thereof) provided to reduce Fronting Exposure or other obligations shall be
released promptly following (i) the elimination of the applicable Fronting Exposure or other obligations giving rise thereto (including by the
termination of Defaulting Lender status of the applicable Lender (or, as appropriate, its assignee following compliance with Section 10.06(b)
(vi))) or (ii) the Administrative Agent’s good faith determination that there exists excess Cash Collateral; provided, however, (x) that Cash
Collateral furnished by or on behalf of a Loan Party shall not be released during the continuance of a Default or Event of Default (and
following application as provided in this Section 2.26 may be otherwise applied in accordance with Section 8.06), and (y) the Person providing
Cash Collateral and the applicable L/C Issuer or applicable Swing Line Lender, as applicable, may agree that Cash Collateral shall not be
released but instead held to support future anticipated Fronting Exposure or other obligations.
2.27
Defaulting Lenders.
(a)
Adjustments. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, if any Lender becomes a Defaulting
Lender, then, until such time as that Lender is no longer a Defaulting Lender, to the extent permitted by applicable Law:
(i)
Waivers and Amendments. That Defaulting Lender’s right to approve or disapprove any amendment, waiver or consent
with respect to this Agreement shall be restricted as set forth in Section 10.01 and in the definition of Required Lenders.
(ii)
Reallocation of Payments. Any payment of principal, interest, fees or other amounts received by the Administrative
Agent for the account of that Defaulting Lender (whether voluntary or mandatory, at maturity, pursuant to Article VIII or otherwise,
and including any amounts made available to the Administrative Agent by that Defaulting Lender pursuant to Section 10.08), shall be
applied at such time or times as may be determined by the Administrative Agent as follows: first, to the payment of any amounts owing
by that Defaulting Lender to the Administrative Agent hereunder; second, to the payment on a pro rata basis of any amounts owing by
that Defaulting Lender to the applicable L/C Issuer or Swing Line Lender hereunder; third, if so determined by the Administrative
Agent or requested by the applicable L/C Issuer or Swing Line Lender, to be held as Cash Collateral for future funding obligations of
that Defaulting Lender of any participation in any Swing Line Loan or Letter of Credit; fourth, as the Company may request (so long as
no Default or Event of Default exists), to the funding of any Loan in respect of which that Defaulting Lender has failed to fund its
portion thereof as required by this Agreement, as determined by the Administrative Agent; fifth, if so determined by the Administrative
Agent and the Company, to be held in a non-interest bearing deposit account and released in order to satisfy obligations of that
Defaulting Lender to fund Loans under this Agreement; sixth, to the payment of any amounts owing to the Lenders, the L/C Issuers or
the Swing Line Lenders as a result of any judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction obtained by any Lender, L/C Issuer or Swing
Line Lender against that Defaulting Lender as a result of that Defaulting Lender’s breach of its obligations under this Agreement;
seventh, so long as no Default or Event of Default exists, to the payment of any amounts owing to the Company as a result of any
judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction obtained by the Company against that Defaulting Lender as a result of that Defaulting
Lender’s breach of its obligations under this Agreement; and eighth, to that Defaulting Lender or as otherwise directed by a court of
competent jurisdiction; provided that if (x) such payment is a payment of the principal amount of any Loans under any Facility or L/C
Borrowings in respect of which that Defaulting Lender has not fully funded its appropriate share and (y) such Loans or L/C Borrowings
were made at a time when the conditions set forth in Section 4.02 were satisfied or waived, such payment shall be applied solely to pay
the Loans of, and L/C Borrowings owed to, all non-Defaulting Lenders under the applicable Facility on a pro rata basis (and ratably
among all applicable Facilities computed in accordance with the Defaulting Lenders’ respective funding deficiencies) prior to being
applied to the payment of any Loans of, or L/C Borrowings owed to, that Defaulting
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Lender under the applicable Facility. Any payments, prepayments or other amounts paid or payable to a Defaulting Lender that are
applied (or held) to pay amounts owed by a Defaulting Lender or to post Cash Collateral pursuant to this Section 2.27(a)(ii) shall be
deemed paid to and redirected by that Defaulting Lender, and each Lender irrevocably consents hereto.
(iii)
Certain Fees. That Defaulting Lender (x) shall not be entitled to receive any commitment fee pursuant to Section
2.17(a) or any facility fee owing to such Lender pursuant to the applicable Fee Letter for any period during which that Lender is a
Defaulting Lender (and the Borrowers shall not be required to pay any such fee that otherwise would have been required to have been
paid to that Defaulting Lender) and (y) shall be limited in its right to receive Letter of Credit Fees as provided in Section 2.03(i).
(iv)
Reallocation of Applicable Percentages to Reduce Fronting Exposure. During any period in which there is a Defaulting
Lender, for purposes of computing the amount of the obligation of each non-Defaulting Lender to acquire, refinance or fund
participations in Letters of Credit, Revolving Swing Line Loans, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans and Used Vehicle Floorplan
Swing Line Loans pursuant to Sections 2.03, 2.04, 2.07 and 2.12, the “Applicable Percentage” of each non-Defaulting Lender shall be
computed without giving effect to the Commitment of such Defaulting Lender; provided, that, (i) each such reallocation shall be given
effect only if, at the initial date thereof, no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing; (ii) in all cases, the
aggregate obligation of each non-Defaulting Lender to acquire, refinance or fund participations in Letters of Credit or Revolving Swing
Line Loans shall not exceed the positive difference, if any, of (1) the Revolving Commitment of such non-Defaulting Lender minus (2)
the aggregate Outstanding Amount of the Revolving Committed Loans of that Lender, (ii) in all cases, the aggregate obligation of each
non-Defaulting Lender to acquire, refinance or fund participations in New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans shall not exceed the
positive difference, if any, of (1) the New Vehicle Floorplan Commitment of such non-Defaulting Lender minus (2) the aggregate
Outstanding Amount of the New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans of such Lender, and (iii) in all cases, the aggregate obligation of
each non-Defaulting Lender to acquire, refinance or fund participations in Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans shall not exceed
the positive difference, if any, of (1) the Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitment of such non-Defaulting Lender minus (2) the aggregate
Outstanding Amount of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans of such Lender. Subject to Section 10.21, no reallocation
hereunder shall constitute a waiver or release of any claim of any party hereunder against a Defaulting Lender arising from that Lender
having become a Defaulting Lender, including any claim of a Non-Defaulting Lender as a result of such Non-Defaulting Lender’s
increased exposure following such reallocation. If the reallocation described above cannot, or can only partially, be effected, the
Borrowers shall, without prejudice to any right or remedy available to it hereunder or under applicable Law, (x) first, prepay Swing
Line Loans in an amount equal to the Swing Line Lenders’ Fronting Exposure and (y) second, Cash Collateralize the L/C Issuers’
Fronting Exposure in accordance with the procedures set forth in Section 2.26.
(b)
Defaulting Lender Cure. If the Company, the Administrative Agent, Swing Line Lender and the L/C Issuers agree in writing in
their sole discretion that a Defaulting Lender should no longer be deemed to be a Defaulting Lender, the Administrative Agent will so notify
the parties hereto, whereupon as of the effective date specified in such notice and subject to any conditions set forth therein (which may include
arrangements with respect to any Cash Collateral), that Lender will, to the extent applicable, purchase that portion of outstanding Loans of the
other Lenders or take such other actions as the Administrative Agent may determine to be necessary to cause the Committed Loans and funded
and unfunded participations in Letters of Credit and Swing Line Loans to be held on a pro rata basis by the Lenders in accordance with their
Applicable Percentages (without giving effect to Section 2.27(a)(iv)), whereupon that Lender will cease to be a Defaulting Lender; provided
that no adjustments will be made retroactively with respect to fees accrued or payments made by or on behalf of any Borrower while that
Lender was a Defaulting Lender; and provided, further, that except to the extent otherwise expressly agreed by the affected parties, no change
hereunder from Defaulting Lender to Lender will constitute a waiver or release of any claim of any party hereunder arising from that Lender’s
having been a Defaulting Lender.
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(c)
New Swing Line Loans/Letters of Credit. So long as any Lender is a Defaulting Lender, (i) no Swing Line Lender shall be
required to fund any Swing Line Loans unless it is satisfied that it will have no Fronting Exposure after giving effect to such Swing Line Loan
and (ii) no L/C Issuer shall be required to issue, extend, increase, reinstate or renew any Letter of Credit unless it is satisfied that it will have no
Fronting Exposure after giving effect thereto.
ARTICLE III. TAXES, YIELD PROTECTION AND ILLEGALITY
3.01
Taxes.
(a)
Payments Free of Taxes; Obligation to Withhold; Payments on Account of Taxes.
(i)
Any and all payments by or on account of any obligation of any Loan Party under any Loan Document shall be made
without deduction or withholding for any Taxes, except as required by applicable Laws. If any applicable Laws (as determined in the
good faith discretion of the Administrative Agent) require the deduction or withholding of any Tax from any such payment by the
Administrative Agent or a Loan Party, then the Administrative Agent or such Loan Party shall be entitled to make such deduction or
withholding.
(ii)
If any Loan Party or the Administrative Agent shall be required by any applicable Law to withhold or deduct any
Taxes, including both United States Federal backup withholding and withholding taxes, from any payment, then (A) such Loan Party or
the Administrative Agent, as required by such Laws, shall withhold or make such deductions as are determined by it to be required
under such Laws, (B) such Loan Party or the Administrative Agent, to the extent required by such Laws, shall timely pay the full
amount withheld or deducted to the relevant Governmental Authority in accordance with such Laws, and (C) to the extent that the
withholding or deduction is made on account of Indemnified Taxes, the sum payable by the applicable Loan Party shall be increased as
necessary so that after any required withholding or the making of all required deductions (including deductions applicable to additional
sums payable under this Section 3.01) the applicable Recipient receives an amount equal to the sum it would have received had no such
withholding or deduction been made. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if any Loan Party determines, in its good faith discretion, that the
Administrative Agent did not or does not intend to withhold or deduct any Taxes that any Loan Party or the Administrative Agent is
required to withhold or deduct from any payment then any Loan Party shall be entitled (after notification to the Administrative Agent)
to make such deductions or withholdings.
(b)
Payment of Other Taxes by the Borrowers. Without limiting the provisions of subsection (a) above, the Company and each
other Borrower shall timely pay to the relevant Governmental Authority in accordance with applicable law, or at the option of the
Administrative Agent timely reimburse it for the payment of, any Other Taxes.
(c)
Tax Indemnifications.
(i)
The Company and each other Borrower shall, and does hereby, jointly and severally indemnify each Recipient, and
shall make payment in respect thereof within 10 days after demand therefor, for the full amount of any Indemnified Taxes (including
Indemnified Taxes imposed or asserted on or attributable to amounts payable under this Section 3.01) payable or paid by such
Recipient or required to be withheld or deducted from a payment to such Recipient, and any reasonable expenses arising therefrom or
with respect thereto, whether or not such Indemnified Taxes were correctly or legally imposed or asserted by the relevant
Governmental Authority. A certificate as to the amount of such payment or liability delivered to the Company by a Lender or an L/C
Issuer (with a copy to the Administrative Agent), or by the Administrative Agent on its own behalf or on behalf of a Lender or an L/C
Issuer, shall be conclusive absent manifest error.
(ii)
Each Lender and each L/C Issuer shall, and does hereby, severally indemnify, and shall make payment in respect
thereof within 10 days after demand therefor, (x) the Administrative Agent against any Indemnified Taxes attributable to such Lender
or such L/C
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Issuer (but only to the extent that any Borrower has not already indemnified the Administrative Agent for such Indemnified Taxes and
without limiting the obligation of the Borrowers to do so), (y) the Administrative Agent against any Taxes attributable to such Lender’s
failure to comply with the provisions of Section 10.06(d) relating to the maintenance of a Participant Register and (z) the
Administrative Agent against any Excluded Taxes attributable to such Lender or such L/C Issuer, in each case, that are payable or paid
by the Administrative Agent in connection with any Loan Document, and any reasonable expenses arising therefrom or with respect
thereto, whether or not such Taxes were correctly or legally imposed or asserted by the relevant Governmental Authority. A certificate
as to the amount of such payment or liability delivered to any Lender by the Administrative Agent shall be conclusive absent manifest
error. Each Lender and each L/C Issuer hereby authorizes the Administrative Agent to set off and apply any and all amounts at any time
owing to such Lender or such L/C Issuer, as the case may be, under this Agreement or any other Loan Document against any amount
due to the Administrative Agent under this clause (ii).
(d)
Evidence of Payments. Upon request by the Company, any other Borrower or the Administrative Agent, as the case may be,
after any payment of Taxes by the Company, any other Borrower or by the Administrative Agent to a Governmental Authority as provided in
this Section 3.01, the Company or such Borrower shall deliver to the Administrative Agent or the Administrative Agent shall deliver to the
Company or such Borrower, as the case may be, the original or a certified copy of a receipt issued by such Governmental Authority evidencing
such payment, a copy of any return required by Laws to report such payment or other evidence of such payment reasonably satisfactory to the
Company or such Borrower or the Administrative Agent, as the case may be.
(e)
Status of Lenders; Tax Documentation.
(i)
Any Lender that is entitled to an exemption from or reduction of withholding Tax with respect to payments made under
any Loan Document shall deliver to the Company and the Administrative Agent, at the time or times reasonably requested by the
Company or the Administrative Agent and at the time or times prescribed by applicable law, such properly completed and executed
documentation reasonably requested by the Company or the Administrative Agent or prescribed by applicable law as will permit such
payments to be made without withholding or at a reduced rate of withholding. In addition, any Lender, if reasonably requested by the
Company or the Administrative Agent, shall deliver such other documentation prescribed by applicable law or reasonably requested by
the Company or the Administrative Agent as will enable the Company or the Administrative Agent to determine whether or not such
Lender is subject to backup withholding or information reporting requirements. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the
preceding two sentences, the completion, execution and submission of such documentation (other than such documentation set forth in
Section 3.01(e)(ii)(A), (ii)(B) and (ii)(D) below) shall not be required if in the Lender’s reasonable judgment such completion,
execution or submission would subject such Lender to any material unreimbursed cost or expense or would materially prejudice the
legal or commercial position of such Lender.
(ii)
Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, in the event that any Borrower is a U.S. Person,
(A)
any Lender that is a U.S. Person shall deliver to the Company and the Administrative Agent on or prior to the
date on which such Lender becomes a Lender under this Agreement (and from time to time thereafter upon the reasonable
request of the Company or the Administrative Agent), executed originals of IRS Form W-9 certifying that such Lender is
exempt from U.S. federal backup withholding tax;
(B)
any Foreign Lender shall, to the extent it is legally entitled to do so, deliver to the Company and the
Administrative Agent (in such number of copies as shall be requested by the recipient) on or prior to the date on which such
Foreign Lender becomes a Lender under this Agreement (and from time to time thereafter upon the reasonable request of the
Company or the Administrative Agent), whichever of the following is applicable:
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(I)
in the case of a Foreign Lender claiming the benefits of an income tax treaty to which the United
States is a party (x) with respect to payments of interest under any Loan Document, executed copies of IRS Form W-
8BEN-E (or W-8BEN, as applicable) establishing an exemption from, or reduction of, U.S. federal withholding Tax
pursuant to the “interest” article of such tax treaty and (y) with respect to any other applicable payments under any
Loan Document, IRS Form W-8BEN-E (or W-8BEN, as applicable) establishing an exemption from, or reduction of,
U.S. federal withholding Tax pursuant to the “business profits” or “other income” article of such tax treaty;
(II)
executed copies of IRS Form W-8ECI;
(III)
in the case of a Foreign Lender claiming the benefits of the exemption for portfolio interest under
Section 881(c) of the Code, (x) a certificate substantially in the form of Exhibit O-1 to the effect that such Foreign
Lender is not a “bank” within the meaning of Section 881(c)(3)(A) of the Code, a “10 percent shareholder” of any
Borrower within the meaning of Section 881(c)(3)(B) of the Code, or a “controlled foreign corporation” described in
Section 881(c)(3)(C) of the Code (a “U.S. Tax Compliance Certificate”) and (y) executed copies of IRS Form W-
8BEN-E (or W-8BEN, as applicable); or
(IV)
to the extent a Foreign Lender is not the beneficial owner, executed copies of IRS Form W-8IMY,
accompanied by IRS Form W-8ECI, IRS Form W-8BEN-E (or W-8BEN, as applicable), a U.S. Tax Compliance
Certificate substantially in the form of Exhibit O-2 or Exhibit O-3, IRS Form W-9, and/or other certification
documents from each beneficial owner, as applicable; provided that if the Foreign Lender is a partnership and one or
more direct or indirect partners of such Foreign Lender are claiming the portfolio interest exemption, such Foreign
Lender may provide a U.S. Tax Compliance Certificate substantially in the form of Exhibit O-4 on behalf of each such
direct and indirect partner;
(C)
any Foreign Lender shall, to the extent it is legally entitled to do so, deliver to the Company and the
Administrative Agent (in such number of copies as shall be requested by the recipient) on or prior to the date on which such
Foreign Lender becomes a Lender under this Agreement (and from time to time thereafter upon the reasonable request of the
Company or the Administrative Agent), executed originals of any other form prescribed by applicable law as a basis for
claiming exemption from or a reduction in U.S. federal withholding Tax, duly completed, together with such supplementary
documentation as may be prescribed by applicable law to permit the Company or the Administrative Agent to determine the
withholding or deduction required to be made; and
(D)
if a payment made to a Lender under any Loan Document would be subject to U.S. federal withholding Tax
imposed by FATCA if such Lender were to fail to comply with the applicable reporting requirements of FATCA (including
those contained in Section 1471(b) or 1472(b) of the Code, as applicable), such Lender shall deliver to the Company and the
Administrative Agent at the time or times prescribed by law and at such time or times reasonably requested by the Company or
the Administrative Agent such documentation prescribed by applicable law (including as prescribed by Section 1471(b)(3)(C)
(i) of the Code) and such additional documentation reasonably requested by the Company or the Administrative Agent as may
be necessary for the Company and the Administrative Agent to comply with their obligations under FATCA and to determine
that such Lender has complied with such Lender’s obligations under FATCA or to determine the amount to deduct and
withhold from such payment. Solely for purposes of this clause (D), “FATCA” shall include any amendments made to FATCA
after the date of this Agreement. For purposes of determining withholding Taxes imposed under FATCA from and after the
effective date of this Agreement, the
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Borrowers and the Administrative Agent shall treat (and the Lenders hereby authorize the Administrative Agent to treat) the
Loans hereunder and this Agreement as not qualifying as a “grandfathered obligation” within the meaning of Treasury
Regulation Section 1.1471-2(b)(2)(i).
(iii)
Each Lender agrees that if any form or certification it previously delivered pursuant to this Section 3.01 expires or
becomes obsolete or inaccurate in any respect, it shall update such form or certification or promptly notify the Company and the
Administrative Agent in writing of its legal inability to do so.
(f)
Treatment of Certain Refunds. Unless required by applicable Laws, at no time shall the Administrative Agent have any
obligation to file for or otherwise pursue on behalf of a Lender or an L/C Issuer, or have any obligation to pay to any Lender or any L/C Issuer,
any refund of Taxes withheld or deducted from funds paid for the account of such Lender or such L/C Issuer, as the case may be. If any
Recipient determines, in its sole discretion, that it has received a refund of any Taxes as to which it has been indemnified by the Company or
any other Borrower or with respect to which the Company or any Borrower has paid additional amounts pursuant to this Section 3.01, it shall
pay to the Company or such Borrower an amount equal to such refund (but only to the extent of indemnity payments made, or additional
amounts paid, by the Company under this Section 3.01 with respect to the Taxes giving rise to such refund), net of all out-of-pocket expenses
(including Taxes) incurred by such Recipient, and without interest (other than any interest paid by the relevant Governmental Authority with
respect to such refund), provided that the Company and each other Borrower, upon the request of the Recipient, agrees to repay the amount
paid over to the Company or such Borrower (plus any penalties, interest or other charges imposed by the relevant Governmental Authority) to
the Recipient in the event the Recipient is required to repay such refund to such Governmental Authority. Notwithstanding anything to the
contrary in this subsection, in no event will the applicable Recipient be required to pay any amount to the Company or any other Borrower
pursuant to this subsection the payment of which would place the Recipient in a less favorable net after-Tax position than such Recipient would
have been in if the Tax subject to indemnification and giving rise to such refund had not been deducted, withheld or otherwise imposed and the
indemnification payments or additional amounts with respect to such Tax had never been paid. This subsection shall not be construed to require
any Recipient to make available its tax returns (or any other information relating to its taxes that it deems confidential) to the Company, any
other Borrower, or any other Person.
(g)
Survival. Each party’s obligations under this Section 3.01 shall survive the resignation or replacement of the Administrative
Agent or any assignment of rights by, or the replacement of, a Lender or an L/C Issuer, the termination of the Commitments and the repayment,
satisfaction or discharge of all other Obligations.
3.02
Illegality. If any Lender determines that any Law has made it unlawful, or that any Governmental Authority has asserted that it
is unlawful, for any Lender or its applicable Lending Office to perform any of its obligations hereunder or make, maintain or fund or charge
any interest with respect to any Credit Extension, or to determine or charge interest rates based upon Daily Simple SOFR, then, on notice
thereof by such Lender to the Company through the Administrative Agent, (i) any obligation of such Lender to issue, make, maintain, fund or
charge interest with respect to any Credit Extension or continue Daily Simple SOFR Loans or to convert Base Rate Committed Loans to Daily
Simple SOFR Committed Loans shall be suspended, and (ii) if such notice asserts the illegality of such Lender making or maintaining Base
Rate Loans the interest rate on which is determined by reference to the Daily Simple SOFR component of the Base Rate, the interest rate on
which Base Rate Loans of such Lender shall, if necessary to avoid such illegality, be determined by the Administrative Agent without reference
to the Daily Simple SOFR component of the Base Rate, in each case until such Lender notifies the Administrative Agent and the Company that
the circumstances giving rise to such determination no longer exist. Upon receipt of such notice, (x) the Company and each other Borrower
(jointly and severally) shall, upon demand from such Lender (with a copy to the Administrative Agent), prepay or, if applicable, convert all
Daily Simple SOFR Loans of such Lender to Base Rate Loans (the interest rate on which Base Rate Loans of such Lender shall, if necessary to
avoid such illegality, be determined by the Administrative Agent without reference to the Daily Simple SOFR component of the Base Rate),
immediately and (y) if such notice asserts the illegality of such Lender determining or charging interest
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rates based upon Daily Simple SOFR, the Administrative Agent shall during the period of such suspension compute the Base Rate applicable to
such Lender without reference to the Daily Simple SOFR component thereof until the Administrative Agent is advised in writing by such
Lender that it is no longer illegal for such Lender to determine or charge interest rates based upon Daily Simple SOFR. Upon any such
prepayment or conversion, the Company and each other Borrower (jointly and severally) shall also pay accrued interest on the amount so
prepaid or converted.
3.03
Inability to Determine Rates.
(a)
If in connection with any request for a Daily Simple SOFR Loan or a conversion of Base Rate Loans to Daily Simple SOFR
Loans or a continuation of Daily Simple SOFR Loans, as applicable, (i) the Administrative Agent determines (which determination shall be
conclusive absent manifest error) that (A) no Successor Rate has been determined in accordance with Section 3.03(b), and the circumstances
under clause (i) of Section 3.03(b) or the Scheduled Unavailability Date has occurred, or (B) adequate and reasonable means do not otherwise
exist for determining Daily Simple SOFR for any requested Interest Period with respect to a proposed Daily Simple SOFR Loan or in
connection with an existing or proposed Base Rate Loan, or (ii) the Administrative Agent or the Required Lenders determine that for any
reason that Daily Simple SOFR with respect to a proposed Daily Simple SOFR Loan does not adequately and fairly reflect the cost to such
Lenders of funding such Daily Simple SOFR Loan, the Administrative Agent will promptly so notify the Company and each Lender.
Thereafter, (x) the obligation of the Lenders to make or maintain Daily Simple SOFR Loans (or convert any Base Rate Loans to Daily SOFR
Loans) shall be suspended, (to the extent of the affected Daily Simple SOFR Loans), and (y) in the event of a determination described in the
preceding sentence with respect to the Daily Simple SOFR component of the Base Rate, the utilization of the Daily Simple SOFR component
in determining the Base Rate shall be suspended, in each case until the Administrative Agent (or, in the case of a determination by the Required
Lenders described in clause (ii) of Section 3.03(a), until the Administrative Agent upon instruction of the Required Lenders) revokes such
notice. Upon receipt of such notice, (i) the Company may revoke any pending request for a Borrowing of, conversion to or continuation of
Daily Simple SOFR Loans (to the extent of the affected Daily Simple SOFR Loans) or, failing that, will be deemed to have converted such
request into a request for a Committed Borrowing of Base Rate Loans in the amount specified therein and (ii) any outstanding Daily Simple
SOFR Loans shall be deemed to have been converted to Base Rate Loans immediately.
(b)
Replacement of Daily Simple SOFR or Successor Rate. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement or any
other Loan Documents, if the Administrative Agent determines (which determination shall be conclusive absent manifest error), or the
Company or Required Lenders notify the Administrative Agent (with, in the case of the Required Lenders, a copy to the Company) that the
Company or Required Lenders (as applicable) have determined, that:
(i) adequate and reasonable means do not exist for ascertaining Daily Simple SOFR, including, without limitation, because
the Daily Simple SOFR Published Rate is not available or published on a current basis and such circumstances are unlikely to be
temporary; or
(ii) the Federal Reserve Bank of New York or any successor administrator of the Daily Simple SOFR Published Rate or a
Governmental Authority having jurisdiction over the Administrative Agent or such administrator with respect to its publication of
Daily Simple SOFR, in each case acting in such capacity, has made a public statement identifying a specific date after which Daily
Simple SOFR or the Daily Simple SOFR Published Rate shall or will no longer be made available, or permitted to be used for
determining the interest rate of U.S. dollar denominated syndicated loans, or shall or will otherwise cease, provided that, at the time of
such statement, there is no successor administrator that is satisfactory to the Administrative Agent, that will continue to provide Daily
Simple SOFR after such specific date (the latest date on which Daily Simple SOFR or the Daily Simple SOFR Published Rate is no
longer available permanently or indefinitely, the “Scheduled Unavailability Date”);
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then, on a date and time determined by the Administrative Agent (any such date, the “Daily Simple SOFR Replacement Date”),
which date shall be on the relevant interest payment date, as applicable, for interest calculated and, solely with respect to clause (ii)
above, no later than the Scheduled Unavailability Date, the Administrative Agent and the Company may amend this Agreement solely
for the purpose of replacing Daily Simple SOFR with a successor rate (the “Successor Rate”) or (if the events or circumstances of the
type described in Section 3.03(b)(i) or (ii) have occurred with respect to the Successor Rate then in effect) any then current Successor
Rate in accordance with this Section 3.03 at the relevant interest payment date or payment period for interest calculated, as applicable,
with an alternative benchmark rate giving due consideration to any evolving or then existing convention for similar U.S. dollar
denominated credit facilities syndicated and agented in the United States for such alternative benchmark. and, in each case, including
any mathematical or other adjustments to such benchmark giving due consideration to any evolving or then existing convention for
similar U.S. dollar denominated credit facilities syndicated and agented in the United States for such benchmark. For the avoidance of
doubt, any such proposed rate and adjustments, shall constitute a “Successor Rate”. Any such amendment shall become effective at
5:00 p.m. on the fifth Business Day after the Administrative Agent shall have posted such proposed amendment to all Lenders and the
Company unless, prior to such time, Lenders comprising the Required Lenders have delivered to the Administrative Agent written
notice that such Required Lenders object to such amendment.
The Administrative Agent will promptly (in one or more notices) notify the Company and each Lender of the implementation of any
Successor Rate.
Any Successor Rate shall be applied in a manner consistent with market practice; provided that to the extent such market practice is not
administratively feasible for the Administrative Agent, such Successor Rate shall be applied in a manner as otherwise reasonably determined by
the Administrative Agent.
Notwithstanding anything else herein, if at any time any Successor Rate as so determined would otherwise be less than zero, the
Successor Rate will be deemed to be zero for the purposes of this Agreement and the other Loan Documents.
In connection with the implementation of a Successor Rate, the Administrative Agent will have the right to make Conforming Changes
from time to time and, notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein or in any other Loan Document, any amendments implementing such
Conforming Changes will become effective without any further action or consent of any other party to this Agreement; provided that, with
respect to any such amendment effected, the Administrative Agent shall post each such amendment implementing such Conforming Changes to
the Company and the Lenders reasonably promptly after such amendment becomes effective.
For purposes of this Section 3.03, those Lenders that either have not made, or do not have an obligation under this Agreement to make,
the relevant Loans in Dollars shall be excluded from any determination of Required Lenders.
3.04
Increased Costs.
(a)
Increased Costs Generally. If any Change in Law shall:
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(i)
impose, modify or deem applicable any reserve, special deposit, compulsory loan, insurance charge or similar
requirement against assets of, deposits with or for the account of, or credit extended or participated in by, any Lender or any L/C Issuer;
(ii)
subject any Recipient to any Taxes (other than (A) Indemnified Taxes, (B) Taxes described in clauses (b) through (d) of
the definition of Excluded Taxes and (C) Connection Income Taxes) on its loans, loan principal, letters of credit, commitments, or other
obligations, or its deposits, reserves, other liabilities or capital attributable thereto; or
(iii)
impose on any Lender or any L/C Issuer any other condition, cost or expense (other than Taxes) affecting this
Agreement or Daily Simple SOFR Loans made by such Lender or any Letter of Credit or participation therein;
and the result of any of the foregoing shall be to increase the cost to such Lender of making, converting, continuing or maintaining any
Loan (or of maintaining its obligation to make any such Loan), or to increase the cost to such Lender or such L/C Issuer of participating in,
issuing or maintaining any Letter of Credit (or of maintaining its obligation to participate in or to issue any Letter of Credit), or to reduce the
amount of any sum received or receivable by such Lender or such L/C Issuer hereunder (whether of principal, interest or any other amount)
then, upon request of such Lender or such L/C Issuer, the Company and each other Borrower (jointly and severally) will pay to such Lender or
such L/C Issuer, as the case may be, such additional amount or amounts as will compensate such Lender or such L/C Issuer, as the case may be,
for such additional costs incurred or reduction suffered.
(b)
Capital Requirements. If any Lender or any L/C Issuer determines that any Change in Law affecting such Lender or such L/C
Issuer or any Lending Office of such Lender or such Lender’s or such L/C Issuer’s holding company, if any, regarding capital or liquidity
requirements has or would have the effect of reducing the rate of return on such Lender’s or such L/C Issuer’s capital or on the capital of such
Lender’s or such L/C Issuer’s holding company, if any, as a consequence of this Agreement, the Commitments of such Lender or the Loans
made by, or participations in Letters of Credit or Swing Line Loans held by, such Lender, or the Letters of Credit issued by such L/C Issuer, to a
level below that which such Lender or such L/C Issuer or such Lender’s or L/C Issuer’s holding company could have achieved but for such
Change in Law (taking into consideration such Lender’s or such L/C Issuer’s policies and the policies of such Lender’s or such L/C Issuer’s
holding company with respect to capital adequacy), then from time to time the Company and each other Borrower (jointly and severally) will
pay to such Lender or such L/C Issuer, as the case may be, such additional amount or amounts as will compensate such Lender or such L/C
Issuer or such Lender’s or such L/C Issuer’s holding company for any such reduction suffered.
(c)
Certificates for Reimbursement. A certificate of a Lender or an L/C Issuer setting forth the amount or amounts necessary to
compensate such Lender or such L/C Issuer or its holding company, as the case may be, as specified in subsection (a) or (b) of this Section and
delivered to the Company shall be conclusive absent manifest error. The Company and each other Borrower shall pay such Lender or such L/C
Issuer, as the case may be, the amount shown as due on any such certificate within 10 days after receipt thereof.
(d)
Delay in Requests. Failure or delay on the part of any Lender or any L/C Issuer to demand compensation pursuant to the
foregoing provisions of this Section shall not constitute a waiver of such Lender’s or such L/C Issuer’s right to demand such compensation,
provided that neither the Company nor any other Borrower shall be required to compensate a Lender or such L/C Issuer pursuant to the
foregoing provisions of this Section for any increased costs incurred or reductions suffered more than nine months prior to the date that such
Lender or such L/C Issuer, as the case may be, notifies the Company of the Change in Law giving rise to such increased costs or reductions and
of such Lender’s or such L/C Issuer’s intention to claim compensation therefor (except that, if the Change in Law giving rise to such increased
costs or reductions is retroactive, then the nine-month period referred to above shall be extended to include the period of retroactive effect
thereof).
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3.05
Mitigation Obligations; Replacement of Lenders.
(a)
Designation of a Different Lending Office. Each Lender may make any Credit Extension to the Borrowers through any
Lending Office, provided that the exercise of this option shall not affect the obligation of the Borrowers to repay the Credit Extension in
accordance with the terms of this Agreement. If any Lender requests compensation under Section 3.04, or the Company or any other Borrower
is required to pay any Indemnified Taxes or additional amounts to any Lender, any L/C Issuer, or any Governmental Authority for the account
of any Lender or any L/C Issuer pursuant to Section 3.01, or if any Lender gives a notice pursuant to Section 3.02, then at the request of the
Company such Lender or such L/C Issuer shall, as applicable, use reasonable efforts to designate a different Lending Office for funding or
booking its Loans hereunder or to assign its rights and obligations hereunder to another of its offices, branches or affiliates, if, in the judgment
of such Lender or such L/C Issuer, such designation or assignment (i) would eliminate or reduce amounts payable pursuant to Section 3.01 or
3.04, as the case may be, in the future, or eliminate the need for the notice pursuant to Section 3.02, as applicable, and (ii) in each case, would
not subject such Lender or such L/C Issuer, as the case may be, to any unreimbursed cost or expense and would not otherwise be
disadvantageous to such Lender or such L/C Issuer, as the case may be. The Company and each other Borrower (jointly and severally) hereby
agrees to pay all reasonable costs and expenses incurred by any Lender or any L/C Issuer in connection with any such designation or
assignment.
(b)
Replacement of Lenders. If any Lender requests compensation under Section 3.04, or if the Company or any other Borrower is
required to pay any Indemnified Taxes or additional amounts to any Lender or any Governmental Authority for the account of any Lender
pursuant to Section 3.01 and, in each case, such Lender has declined or is unable to designate a different lending office in accordance with
Section 3.05(a), the Company may replace such Lender in accordance with Section 10.13.
3.06
Survival. All of the Company’s and each other Borrower’s obligations under this Article III shall survive termination of the
Aggregate Commitments, repayment of all other Obligations hereunder, and resignation of the Administrative Agent.
ARTICLE IV. CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO CREDIT EXTENSIONS
4.01
Conditions of Initial Credit Extension. The effectiveness of this Agreement and the amendment and restatement of the
Existing Credit Agreement is subject to satisfaction of the following conditions precedent:
(a)
The Administrative Agent’s receipt of the following, each of which shall be originals or telecopies (followed promptly by
originals) unless otherwise specified, each properly executed by a Responsible Officer of the signing Loan Party, each dated the Closing Date
(or, in the case of certificates of governmental officials, a recent date before the Closing Date) and each in form and substance satisfactory to
the Administrative Agent and each of the Lenders:
(i)
executed counterparts of (A) this Agreement sufficient in number for distribution to the Administrative Agent and its
counsel, each Lender and the Company and (B) (1) the Security Agreement, (2) the Pledge Agreement, (3) the Escrow and Security
Agreement and (4) each Guaranty required to be delivered in connection herewith, in each case, sufficient in number for distribution to
the Administrative Agent, the Administrative Agent’s counsel and the Company;
(ii)
(A) a Revolving Note executed by the Company in favor of each Lender requesting a Revolving Note, (B) a New
Vehicle Floorplan Note executed by the New Vehicle Borrowers in favor of each Lender requesting a New Vehicle Floorplan Note, and
(C) a Used Vehicle Floorplan Note executed by the Used Vehicle Borrowers in favor of each Lender requesting a Used Vehicle
Floorplan Note;
(iii)
such certificates of resolutions or other action, incumbency certificates and/or other certificates of Responsible Officers
of each Loan Party as the Administrative Agent may require evidencing the identity, authority and capacity of each Responsible Officer
thereof
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authorized to act as a Responsible Officer in connection with this Agreement and the other Loan Documents to which such Loan Party
is a party;
(iv)
such documents and certifications as the Administrative Agent may reasonably require to evidence that each Loan
Party is duly organized or formed, and that each Loan Party is validly existing, in good standing and qualified to engage in business in
the respective jurisdictions specified in Schedule 4.01, which includes each jurisdiction where its ownership, lease or operation of
properties or the conduct of its business requires such qualification, except to the extent that failure to do so could not reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect;
(v)
a favorable opinion of Jones Day, counsel to the Loan Parties, addressed to the Administrative Agent and each Lender,
in the form attached as Exhibit L;
(vi)
a favorable opinion of local counsel to the Loan Parties in Utah and Idaho addressed to the Administrative Agent and
each Lender in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent;
(vii)
a certificate of a Responsible Officer of each Loan Party either (A) attaching copies of all consents, licenses and
approvals required in connection with the execution, delivery and performance by such Loan Party and the validity against such Loan
Party of the Loan Documents to which it is a party, and such consents, licenses and approvals shall be in full force and effect, or (B)
stating that no such consents, licenses or approvals are so required;
(viii)
a certificate signed by a Responsible Officer of the Company certifying (A) that the conditions specified in Sections
4.02(a) and (b) have been satisfied, (B) that there has been no event or circumstance since the date of the Audited Financial Statements
that has had or could be reasonably expected to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect, (C) as to the
absence of any action, suit, investigation or proceeding pending or, to the knowledge of the Company, threatened in any court or before
any arbitrator or Governmental Authority that could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect and (D) that the
information set forth in the Compliance Certificate, Revolving Borrowing Base Certificate and Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing
Base Certificate most recently delivered by the Company pursuant to the Existing Credit Agreement is accurate with respect to the
periods referenced therein;
(ix)
a certificate signed by the chief financial officer, treasurer or chief accounting officer of the Company, certifying that
the Company individually is Solvent and the Loan Parties taken as a whole are Solvent, in each case after giving effect to this
Agreement and the other Loan Documents and the Indebtedness pursuant hereto and thereto;
(x)
a certificate of a Responsible Officer of the Company evidencing that no consents or waivers are required pursuant to
any Franchise Agreement or Framework Agreement that have not been obtained;
(xi)
duly executed consents and waivers required pursuant to any Franchise Agreement or Framework Agreement (if any);
(xii)
evidence that all insurance required to be maintained pursuant to the Loan Documents has been obtained and is in
effect, including endorsements naming the Administrative Agent (on behalf of the Secured Parties ) as an additional insured or lender’s
loss payee, as the case may be, on all insurance policies maintained with respect to properties of the Company or any Loan Party
constituting part of the Collateral, as requested by the Administrative Agent;
(xiii)
consolidated balance sheets for the Company and each Subsidiary as at the end of June 30, 2023, and the related
consolidated statements of income or operations, all in reasonable detail prepared by management of the Company or such Subsidiary,
including designations of New Vehicle and Used Vehicle inventories and associated lien payoffs;
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(xiv)
forecasts (including assumptions) prepared by the management of the Company of consolidated balance sheets, income
statements and cash flow statements for the Company and its Subsidiaries, in each case in form and substance reasonably satisfactory
to the Administrative Agent for each of the first five fiscal years following the Closing Date;
(xv)
delivery by the Company and each applicable Loan Party owning any Equity Interests required to be pledged (if any)
pursuant to this Agreement or the Pledge Agreement of all stock certificates evidencing such pledged Equity Interests, accompanied in
each case by duly executed stock powers (or other appropriate transfer documents) in blank affixed thereto and (y) delivery by the
Company and each other applicable Loan Party owning any Equity Interests required to be delivered in escrow pursuant to the Escrow
and Security Agreement of all stock certificates evidencing such Equity Interests
(xvi)
UCC financing statements for filing in all places required by applicable law to perfect the Liens of the Administrative
Agent for the benefit of the Secured Parties under the Security Instruments as a perfected Lien as to items of Collateral in which a
security interest may be perfected by the filing of financing statements;
(xvii)
UCC search results with respect to the Borrowers showing only Liens acceptable to the Administrative Agent (or
pursuant to which arrangements reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent shall have been made to remove any unacceptable
Liens promptly after the Closing Date);
(xviii) a certificate signed by a Responsible Officer of the Company certifying as to the identity of any Unrestricted
Subsidiaries and that such Subsidiaries meet the requirements to be Unrestricted Subsidiaries;
(xix)
with respect to any Eligible Borrowing Base Real Estate that is reflected in the Revolving Borrowing Base Certificate
delivered pursuant to clause (xi) above, each of the following, in form and substance reasonably acceptable to the Administrative
Agent: (A) a FIRREA-conforming appraisal (or, in the event that a FIRREA-conforming appraisal cannot be obtained prior to the date
hereof after commercially reasonable efforts, a report as to the tax assessed value for such property) and (B) such other reports or
certifications as related to such Eligible Borrowing Base Real Estate as the Administrative Agent may reasonably request;
(xx)
Landlord Waivers, if any, that have been received by the Company or any Subsidiary on or prior to the Closing Date
which have not previously been delivered to the Administrative Agent;
(xxi)
copies of any executed Service Loaner Intercreditor Agreement with respect to any Permitted Service Loaner
Indebtedness and the FMCC Intercreditor Agreement; in each case as in effect as the date hereof, and if required pursuant to the terms
hereof, any additional Service Loaner Intercreditor Agreements;
(xxii)
a form FR U-1 executed by the Company and a duly authorized representative of the Administrative Agent;
(xxiii) Fee Letters executed by the Company, the Administrative Agent and each applicable Lender; and
(xxiv)
such other assurances, certificates, documents, consents or opinions as the Administrative Agent, any L/C Issuer, the
Revolving Swing Line Lender, the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender or the
Required Lenders reasonably may require.
(b)
(i) Upon the reasonable request of any Lender made at least ten (10) days prior to the Closing Date, the Borrower shall have
provided to such Lender, and such Lender shall be reasonably satisfied with, the documentation and other information so requested in
connection with applicable “know
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your customer” and anti-money-laundering rules and regulations, including, without limitation, the Act, in each case at least five (5) Business
Days prior to the Closing Date and (ii) at least five (5) Business Days prior to the Closing Date, any Loan Party that qualifies as a “legal entity
customer” under the Beneficial Ownership Regulation shall have delivered, to each Lender that so requests, a Beneficial Ownership
Certification in relation to such Loan Party.
(c)
Any fees required to be paid on or before the Closing Date shall have been paid.
(d)
Unless waived by the Administrative Agent, the Company shall have paid all accrued fees, charges and disbursements of
counsel to the Administrative Agent (directly to such counsel if requested by the Administrative Agent) to the extent invoiced prior to or on the
Closing Date, plus such additional amounts of such fees, charges and disbursements as shall constitute its reasonable estimate of such fees,
charges and disbursements incurred or to be incurred by it through the closing proceedings (provided that such estimate shall not thereafter
preclude a final settling of accounts between the Company and the Administrative Agent).
Without limiting the generality of the provisions of the last paragraph of Section 9.03, for purposes of determining compliance with the
conditions specified in this Section 4.01, each Lender that has signed this Agreement shall be deemed to have consented to, approved or
accepted or to be satisfied with, each document or other matter required thereunder to be consented to or approved by or acceptable or
satisfactory to a Lender unless the Administrative Agent shall have received notice from such Lender prior to the proposed Closing Date
specifying its objection thereto.
4.02
Conditions to all Credit Extensions other than New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowings pursuant to a
Payment Commitment, a Payoff Letter Commitment or the Floorplan On-Line System. The obligation of each Lender to honor any
Request for Credit Extension (other than pursuant to (x) a Request for Credit Extension requesting only a conversion of Loans to the other
Type, (y) a Payment Commitment, or (z) a Payoff Letter Commitment) is subject to the following conditions precedent (provided, that, with
respect to any Request for Credit Extension for Committed Loans the proceeds of which are intended to be and are actually used to finance one
or more Permitted Acquisitions which are subject to customary “certain funds provisions”, the conditions to making such Committed Loans
may be modified to reflect customary “certain funds provisions” as agreed to by the Administrative Agent and the Company):
(a)
The representations and warranties of the Company and each other Loan Party contained in Article V or any other Loan
Document, or which are contained in any document furnished at any time under or in connection herewith or therewith, shall be true and
correct in all material respects (or in all respects in the case of any representation and warranty qualified by materiality or Material Adverse
Effect) on and as of the date of such Credit Extension, except to the extent that such representations and warranties specifically refer to an
earlier date, in which case they shall be true and correct in all material respects (or in all respects in the case of any representation and warranty
qualified by materiality or Material Adverse Effect) as of such earlier date, and except that for purposes of this Section 4.02, the representations
and warranties contained in subsections (a) and (b) of Section 5.05 shall be deemed to refer to the most recent statements furnished pursuant to
clauses (a) and (b), respectively, of Section 6.01.
(b)
No Default shall exist or would result from such proposed Credit Extension or from the application of the proceeds thereof.
(c)
The Administrative Agent and, if applicable, the applicable L/C Issuer, the Revolving Swing Line Lender or the Used Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender shall have received, to the extent otherwise required under Section 2.02, 2.03, 2.04, 2.11 or 2.12, a Request for
Credit Extension in accordance with the requirements hereof.
(d)
In the case of any Revolving Borrowing, the Total Revolving Outstandings after giving effect to such Request for Credit
Extension shall not exceed the lesser of the Aggregate Revolving Commitments or the Revolving Borrowing Base on such date.
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(e)
If the applicable Borrower is a New Vehicle Borrower, then the conditions of Section 2.24 to the designation of such Borrower
as a New Vehicle Borrower shall have been met to the satisfaction of the Administrative Agent.
(f)
If the applicable Borrower is a Used Vehicle Borrower, then the conditions of Section 2.25 to the designation of such Borrower
as a Used Vehicle Borrower shall have been met.
(g)
In the case of any Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing, the Total Used Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings after giving effect to such
Request for Credit Extensions shall not exceed the lesser of the Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments or the Used Vehicle Floorplan
Borrowing Base on such date.
(h)
Each Request for Credit Extension (other than a Request for Credit Extension requesting only a conversion of Loans to the
other Type) submitted by the Company shall be deemed to be a representation and warranty that the conditions specified in Sections 4.02(a)
and (b) have been satisfied on and as of the date of the applicable Credit Extension.
(i)
Notwithstanding the conditions specified in Sections 4.02(a) and (b) above, with respect to the portion of any Credit Extension
that is used solely to finance any part of the Koons Acquisition, Sections 4.02(a) and (b) shall not apply with respect to such Credit Extension,
but the following conditions shall apply:
(i)
The Administrative Agent shall have received all documents, and evidence reasonably satisfactory to the
Administrative Agent that all other actions have been taken, in each case required by Sections 2.24, 2.25 and 6.14 of the Credit
Agreement with respect to any Subsidiary that (a) did not execute the Credit Agreement on the Closing Date as a New Vehicle
Borrower and Used Vehicle Borrower and (b) will acquire assets in connection with the Koons Acquisition or whose Equity Interests
will be acquired in connection with the Koons Acquisition (each an “Additional Koons Restricted Subsidiary”; each such Subsidiary,
together with any other Subsidiary which will acquire assets in connection with the Koons Acquisition, the “Koons Restricted
Subsidiaries”), each in form and substance satisfactory to the Administrative Agent and each of the Lenders.
(ii)
The Administrative Agent shall have received the following, each of which (in the case of clauses (D) and (G) shall be
originals or telecopies (followed promptly by originals) unless otherwise specified, each of which (in the case of clauses (B) and (C))
shall be properly executed by a Responsible Officer of the signing Loan Party, each dated the date of such Credit Extension (or, in the
case of certificates of governmental officials or the items referred to in clauses (B)(y) and (E) below, a recent date before the date of
such Credit Extension) and each in form and substance satisfactory to the Administrative Agent and each of the Lenders:
(A)
evidence that all insurance required to be maintained with respect to each Koons Restricted Subsidiary
pursuant to the Loan Documents has been obtained and is in effect, including endorsements naming the Administrative Agent
(on behalf of the Secured Parties) as an additional insured or lender’s loss payee, as the case may be, on all insurance policies
maintained with respect to properties of such Koons Restricted Subsidiary constituting part of the Collateral;
(B)
to the extent there are any Additional Koons Restricted Subsidiaries at such time, (x) such certificates of
resolutions or other action, incumbency certificates and/or other certificates of Responsible Officers of each Additional Koons
Restricted Subsidiary as the Administrative Agent may require evidencing the identity, authority and capacity of each
Responsible Officer thereof authorized to act as a Responsible Officer in connection with the Loan Documents to which such
Additional Koons Restricted Subsidiary is a party, (y) such documents and certifications as the Administrative Agent may
reasonably require to evidence that each Additional Koons Restricted Subsidiary is duly organized or formed, and that such
Additional Koons Restricted Subsidiary is validly existing, in good standing and qualified to engage in
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business in the jurisdiction of its organization or formation, and each other jurisdiction where its ownership, lease or operation
of properties or the conduct of its business requires such qualification, except to the extent that failure to do so could not
reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect and (z) favorable opinions of Jones Day, counsel to the Loan Parties,
and, if requested by the Administrative Agent in its sole discretion, of local counsel to the Loan Parties in each state where an
Additional Koons Restricted Subsidiary is organized, in each case addressed to the Administrative Agent and each Lender, in
form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent;
(C)
a certificate signed by a Responsible Officer of the Company certifying that the conditions specified in
Sections 4.02(i)(iii), (iv) and (v) have been satisfied;
(D)
each of the documents required to be delivered pursuant to Section 7.19, (including a duly completed Pro
Forma Compliance Certificate, Pro Forma Revolving Borrowing Base Certificate and Pro Forma Used Vehicle Floorplan
Borrowing Base Certificate and the financial statements required to be delivered thereby);
(E)
UCC search results with respect to all sellers under the Koons Acquisition Documents and all Additional
Koons Restricted Subsidiaries showing only Liens permitted hereunder (or pursuant to which arrangements reasonably
satisfactory to the Administrative Agent shall have been made to remove any Liens not permitted hereunder on or prior to the
date of such Credit Extension);
(F)
with respect to any Eligible Borrowing Base Real Estate that is reflected in the Revolving Borrowing Base
Certificate delivered pursuant to clause (F) above, each of the following, in form and substance reasonably acceptable to the
Administrative Agent: (A) a FIRREA-conforming appraisal (or, in the event that a FIRREA-conforming appraisal cannot be
obtained prior to the date of such certificate after commercially reasonable efforts, a report as to the tax assessed value for such
property), and (C) such other reports or certifications as related to such Eligible Borrowing Base Real Estate as the
Administrative Agent may reasonably request; and
(G)
if any Koons Restricted Subsidiary has a service loaner program with any Manufacturer or financial affiliate of
a Manufacturer, a Service Loaner Intercreditor Agreement with respect to such program.
(iii)
The Specified Koons Acquisition Agreement Representations shall be true and correct on the date of such Credit
Extension, both immediately before and after giving effect to the Koons Acquisition and the Koons Acquisition Indebtedness.
(iv)
The Specified Representations shall be true and correct on the date of such Credit Extension in all material respects,
both immediately before and after giving effect to the Koons Acquisition and the Koons Acquisition Indebtedness.
(v)
No Specified Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing as of the date of such Credit Extension, both
immediately before and after giving effect to the Koons Acquisition and the Koons Acquisition Indebtedness.
(vi)
There has been no event or circumstance since the date of execution of the Koons Acquisition Documents that has had
or could be reasonably expected to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Change (as defined in the Koons
Acquisition Agreement).
(vii)
(A) Upon the reasonable request of any Lender made at least ten (10) Business Days prior to the date of such Credit
Extension, each Borrower shall have provided to such Lender, and such Lender shall be reasonably satisfied with, the documentation
and other information so requested in connection with applicable “know your customer” and anti-money-laundering rules and
regulations, including, without limitation, the Act, in each case at least three
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(3) Business Days prior to the date of such Credit Extension and (B) at least three (3) Business Days prior to the date of such Credit
Extension, any Loan Party that qualifies as a “legal entity customer” under the Beneficial Ownership Regulation shall have delivered,
to each Lender that so requests, a Beneficial Ownership Certification in relation to such Loan Party.
4.03
Conditions to all New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Borrowings pursuant to a Payment Commitment, a Payoff Letter
Commitment or the Floorplan On-Line System. The obligation of the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender to honor any request for a
New Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing pursuant to a Payment Commitment, a Payoff Letter Commitment or the Floorplan On-Line System is
subject to the following conditions precedent:
(a)
to the extent required pursuant to the terms of such Payment Commitment, Payoff Letter Commitment or Floorplan On-Line
System, as the case may be, the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender shall have received a manufacturer/distributor invoice, cash draft,
electronic record, depository transfer check, sight draft, or such other documentation as may be specified in such Payment Commitment, Payoff
Letter Commitment or Floorplan On-Line System, identifying the Vehicles delivered or to be delivered to the applicable New Vehicle
Borrower; and
(b)
any other conditions precedent set forth in such Payment Commitment, Payoff Letter Commitment or Floorplan On-Line
System.
ARTICLE V. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
Each of the Company and each Vehicle Borrower represents and warrants to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders that:
5.01
Existence, Qualification and Power. Each Loan Party and each Subsidiary (other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries)
thereof (a) is duly organized or formed, validly existing and, as applicable, in good standing under the Laws of the jurisdiction of its
incorporation or organization, (b) has all requisite power and authority and all requisite governmental licenses, authorizations, consents and
approvals to (i) own or lease its assets and carry on its business and (ii) execute, deliver and perform its obligations under the Loan Documents
to which it is a party, and (c) is duly qualified and is licensed and, as applicable, in good standing under the Laws of each jurisdiction where its
ownership, lease or operation of properties or the conduct of its business requires such qualification or license; except in each case referred to in
clause (b)(i) or (c), to the extent that failure to do so could not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
5.02
Authorization; No Contravention. The execution, delivery and performance by each Loan Party of each Loan Document to
which such Person is party, have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate or other organizational action, and do not and will not (a)
contravene the terms of any of such Person’s Organization Documents; (b) conflict with or result in any breach or contravention of, or the
creation of any Lien under, or require any payment to be made under (i) any Contractual Obligation to which such Person is a party or affecting
such Person or the properties of such Person or any of its Subsidiaries, or (ii) any order, injunction, writ or decree of any Governmental
Authority or any arbitral award to which such Person or its property is subject; or (c) violate any Law; except, in the case of clause (b)(i) or (c),
to the extent such contravention, conflict or violation would not reasonably be expected to have Material Adverse Effect.
5.03
Governmental Authorization; Other Consents. No registration with, or consent or approval of, or other action by, any
federal, state or other Governmental Authority is or will be required in connection with the execution, delivery and performance of this
Agreement or any other Loan Document, the execution and delivery of the Notes or repayment of the Borrowings hereunder.
5.04
Binding Effect. This Agreement and each of the Loan Documents have been duly executed and delivered by each Loan Party
which is a party thereto and constitute legal, valid and binding obligations of each Loan Party party thereto enforceable in accordance with their
respective terms,
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subject, as to the enforcement of remedies, to applicable bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, moratorium and similar Laws affecting
creditors’ rights generally and general principles of equity.
5.05
Financial Statements; No Material Adverse Effect.
(a)
The Audited Financial Statements (i) were prepared in accordance with GAAP consistently applied throughout the period
covered thereby, except as otherwise expressly noted therein; and (ii) fairly present in all material respects the financial condition of the
Company and its Subsidiaries as of the date thereof and their results of operations for the period covered thereby in accordance with GAAP
consistently applied throughout the period covered thereby, except as otherwise expressly noted therein.
(b)
The unaudited consolidated balance sheets of the Company and its Subsidiaries dated June 30, 2023, and the related
consolidated statements of income or operations, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for the fiscal quarter ended on that date (i) were prepared
in accordance with GAAP consistently applied throughout the period covered thereby, except as otherwise expressly noted therein, and (ii)
fairly present in all material respects the financial condition of the Company and its Subsidiaries as of the date thereof and their results of
operations for the period covered thereby, subject, in the case of clauses (i) and (ii), to the absence of footnotes and to normal year-end audit
adjustments.
(c)
Since the date of the Audited Financial Statements, there has been no event or circumstance, either individually or in the
aggregate, that has had or could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
5.06
Litigation. There are no actions, suits, proceedings, claims or disputes pending or, to the knowledge of the Company after due
and diligent investigation, threatened or contemplated, at law, in equity, in arbitration or before any Governmental Authority, by or against the
Company or any of its Subsidiaries or against any of their properties or revenues that (a) purport to affect or pertain to this Agreement or any
other Loan Document, or any of the transactions contemplated hereby, or (b) except as specifically disclosed in Schedule 5.06, either
individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
5.07
No Default. Neither any Loan Party nor any Subsidiary thereof (other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries) is in default
under or with respect to any Contractual Obligation that could, either individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a
Material Adverse Effect. No Default has occurred and is continuing or would result from the consummation of the transactions contemplated
by this Agreement or any other Loan Document.
5.08
Ownership of Property; Liens. (a) Each of the Company and each Subsidiary (other than the Specified Insurance
Subsidiaries) has good record and marketable title in fee simple to, or valid leasehold interests in, all real property necessary or used in the
ordinary conduct of its business, and (b) each of the Company and each Subsidiary (other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries) owns all
property necessary in the operation of its business, except in each case for such defects in title or such failure to own or lease property as could
not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. The property of the Company and its
Subsidiaries is subject to no Liens, other than Liens permitted by Section 7.02.
5.09
Environmental Compliance. The Company and each of its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries) has
complied in all respects with all Environmental Laws except where the failure to comply could not be expected to have a Material Adverse
Effect. Neither the Company nor any of its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries) has received written notice of any
failure so to comply except where the failure to comply could not be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. Neither the Company nor any
of its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries) manages any hazardous wastes, hazardous substances, hazardous materials,
toxic substances or toxic pollutants in a manner that violates any regulations promulgated pursuant to Environmental Laws except for any such
violation that could not be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
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5.10
Insurance. The properties of the Company and its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries) are insured
with financially sound and reputable insurance companies not Affiliates of the Company, in such amounts, with such deductibles and covering
such risks as are customarily carried by companies engaged in similar businesses and owning similar properties in localities where the
Company or the applicable Subsidiary operates.
5.11
Taxes. The Company and its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries) have filed all Federal, state and
other material tax returns required to be filed, and have paid, or have made adequate provision for payment of, all U.S. federal and material
state and other material taxes, assessments, fees and other governmental charges levied or imposed upon them or their properties, income or
assets otherwise due and payable, except those which are being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings diligently conducted and for
which adequate reserves or other appropriate provisions have been provided in accordance with GAAP. There is no proposed tax assessment
against the Company or any Subsidiary (other than a Specified Insurance Subsidiary) that would, if made, be reasonably expected to have a
Material Adverse Effect.
5.12
ERISA Compliance.
(a)
Each Plan is in compliance in all material respects with the applicable provisions of ERISA, the Code and other Federal or state
laws. Each Pension Plan that is intended to be a qualified plan under Section 401(a) of the Code has received a favorable determination letter
from the Internal Revenue Service to the effect that the form of such Plan is qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code and the trust related
thereto has been determined by the Internal Revenue Service to be exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(a) of the Code, or an
application for such a letter is currently being processed by the Internal Revenue Service or, in the case of a Pension Plan that is maintained
pursuant to the adoption of a master or prototype or volume submitter document, the sponsor of such master or prototype or volume submitter
document has obtained from the Internal Revenue Service a favorable opinion letter stating that the form of such master or prototype or volume
submitter document is acceptable for the establishment of a tax-qualified plan under Section 401(a) of the Code. To the best knowledge of the
Company, nothing has occurred that would prevent or cause the loss of such tax-qualified status.
(b)
There are no pending or, to the best knowledge of the Company, threatened claims, actions or lawsuits, or action by any
Governmental Authority, with respect to any Plan that could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. There has been no
prohibited transaction or violation of the fiduciary responsibility rules with respect to any Plan that has resulted or could reasonably be
expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect.
(c)
No ERISA Event has occurred that would reasonably be expected to result in a material liability, and neither the Company nor
any ERISA Affiliate is aware of any fact, event or circumstance that could reasonably be expected to constitute or result in an ERISA event that
would result in a material liability. Except to the extent the following would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, (i)
the Borrower and each ERISA Affiliate has met all applicable requirements under the Pension Funding Rules in respect of each Pension Plan,
and no waiver of the minimum funding standards under the Pension Funding Rules has been applied for or obtained; (ii) as of the most recent
valuation date for any Pension Plan, the funding target attainment percentage (as defined in Section 430(d)(2) of the Code) is 60% or higher
and neither the Company nor any ERISA Affiliate knows of any facts or circumstances that could reasonably be expected to cause the funding
target attainment percentage for any such plan to drop below 60% as of the most recent valuation date; (iii) neither the Company nor any
ERISA Affiliate has incurred any liability to the PBGC other than for the payment of premiums, and there are no premium payments which
have become due that are unpaid; (iv) neither the Company nor any ERISA Affiliate has engaged in a transaction that could be subject to
Section 4069 or Section 4212(c) of ERISA; and (v) no Pension Plan has been terminated by the plan administrator thereof nor by the PBGC,
and no event or circumstance has occurred or exists that could reasonably be expected to cause the PBGC to institute proceedings under Title
IV of ERISA to terminate any Pension Plan.
(d)
Neither the Company or any ERISA Affiliate maintains or contributes to, or has any unsatisfied obligation to contribute to, or
liability under, any active or terminated Pension Plan other than
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(A) on the Closing Date, those listed on Schedule 5.12(d) hereto and (B) thereafter, Pension Plans not otherwise prohibited by this Agreement.
5.13
Subsidiaries; Addresses; Equity Interests. As of the Closing Date, the Company has no Subsidiaries other than those
specifically disclosed in Part (a) of Schedule 5.13, and all of the outstanding Equity Interests in such Subsidiaries have been validly issued, and,
to the extent applicable, are fully paid and nonassessable, and are owned by a Loan Party in the percentages specified on Part (a) of Schedule
5.13 free and clear of all Liens (except for Liens permitted by Section 7.02(a), (c) or (d), and transfer restrictions contained in the Franchise
Agreements and the Framework Agreements). As of the Closing Date, the addresses set forth in Schedule 5.13 are each Loan Party’s place of
business and each Loan Party is formed or incorporated only in the state shown for it on Schedule 5.13 hereto.
5.14
Margin Regulations; Investment Company Act.
(a)
Neither the Company nor any Vehicle Borrower is engaged or will engage, principally or as one of its important activities, in
the business of purchasing or carrying margin stock (within the meaning of Regulation U issued by the FRB) or extending credit for the
purpose of purchasing or carrying margin stock.
(b)
None of the Company, any Person Controlling the Company, or any Subsidiary is or is required to be registered as an
“investment company” under the Investment Company Act of 1940.
5.15
Disclosure.
(a)
Neither this Agreement, the other Loan Documents, nor any other document delivered by or with the knowledge and consent of
the Company on behalf of the Company or any Subsidiary in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby and the negotiation of this
Agreement or in connection with any Loan Document or included therein contained or contains when furnished any material misstatement of
fact or omitted or omits to state any fact necessary to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were
made, not materially misleading; provided that, with respect to projected financial information, the Borrowers represent only that such
information was prepared in good faith based upon assumptions believed to be reasonable at the time prepared, it being understood that
projections by their nature are uncertain and no assurance is given that the results reflected in such projections will be achieved.
(b)
As of the Closing Date, the information included in the Beneficial Ownership Certification, if applicable, is true and correct in
all respects.
5.16
Compliance with Laws. Each of the Company and each Subsidiary thereof (other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries) is
in compliance in all material respects with the requirements of all Laws and all orders, writs, injunctions and decrees applicable to it or to its
properties, except in such instances in which (a) such requirement of Law or order, writ, injunction or decree is being contested in good faith by
appropriate proceedings diligently conducted or (b) the failure to comply therewith, either individually or in the aggregate, could not reasonably
be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
5.17
Intellectual Property; Licenses, Etc. The Company and its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries)
own, or possess the right to use, all of the trademarks, service marks, trade names, copyrights, patents, patent rights, franchises, licenses and
other intellectual property rights (collectively, “IP Rights”) that are reasonably necessary for the operation of their respective businesses,
without conflict with the rights of any other Person, except to the extent such conflict would not reasonably be expected to result in a Material
Adverse Effect. No slogan or other advertising device, product, process, method, substance, part or other material now employed, or now
contemplated to be employed, by the Company or any Subsidiary infringes upon any rights held by any other Person in a manner that would
reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect.
5.18
Location of Vehicles and Books and Records. As of the Closing Date, the locations (and addresses) set forth in Schedule 5.18
are all the locations at which the Company and its Subsidiaries keep the Vehicles held as inventory, except for times when such Vehicles may,
in the ordinary course of
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business, be (a) in transit between locations, (b) in transit for “dealer trades”, (c) being test driven by potential customers or (d) being repaired
at a repair shop, and in each such instance described in clauses (a) through (d) the Company maintains records with the location of the Vehicle
and, where applicable, the name of, and such other relevant information as is standard in the industry with respect to, the dealer involved in
such a dealer trade (or the customer test driving such Vehicle). Each of the Company and each Subsidiary (other than the Specified Insurance
Subsidiaries) maintains proper books of record and account, in which full, true and correct entries in conformity with GAAP consistently
applied have been made of all financial transactions and matters involving the assets and business of the Company or such Subsidiary, as the
case may be.
5.19
Franchise Agreements and Framework Agreements. Each of the Franchise Agreements and Framework Agreements is
currently in full force and effect, and as of the Closing Date no Loan Party has received any notice of termination with respect to any such
agreements; and, except as disclosed on Schedule 5.19, no Loan Party is aware of any event which with notice, lapse of time, or both would
allow any manufacturer which is a party to any of the Franchise Agreements or Framework Agreements to terminate any such agreements.
There exists no present condition or state of facts or circumstances in regard to said Franchise Agreements or Framework Agreements, in the
aggregate, which would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
5.20
Engaged in Business of Vehicle Sales and Related Businesses. Neither the Company nor any other Borrower is engaged in
any business in any material respect other than the business of (a) selling Vehicles and business activities that are reasonably related or
incidental thereto, including, without limitation, the offering and/or selling of parts and service, including vehicle repair and maintenance
services, replacement parts, and collision repair services, and finance and insurance products, including arranging vehicle financing through
third parties and aftermarket products, such as extended service contracts, guaranteed asset protection insurance, prepaid maintenance, and
credit life and disability insurance and (b) acquiring, owning, operating and, in some cases, selling dealerships engaged in such businesses;
provided that no such insurance products described in clause (a) shall require the Company or any of its Subsidiaries to assume the risk of loss
in respect of such policies.
5.21
Collateral. The provisions of each of the Security Instruments are effective to create in favor of the Administrative Agent for
the benefit of the Secured Parties, a legal, valid and enforceable perfected security interest in all right, title and interest of each applicable Loan
Party in the Collateral described therein, except as otherwise permitted hereunder. For the avoidance of doubt, in no event shall the Collateral
include (i) any asset of any Foreign Subsidiary or (ii) voting Equity Interests in any Foreign Subsidiary representing more than 65% of the
voting Equity Interests of such Foreign Subsidiary.
5.22
Solvency. Both immediately before and after giving effect to the Loans hereunder, the Company individually is Solvent, and
the Loan Parties taken as a whole are Solvent.
5.23
Labor Matters. As of the Closing Date, to the Company’s and its Subsidiaries’ (other than the Specified Insurance
Subsidiaries’) knowledge, there are no material labor disputes to which the Company or any of its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified
Insurance Subsidiaries) are or are reasonably expected to become a party, including, without limitation, any strikes, lockouts or other disputes
relating to such Persons’ plants and other facilities.
5.24
Taxpayer Identification Number. The Company’s true and correct U.S. taxpayer identification number is set forth on
Schedule 10.02.
5.25
OFAC. No Borrower, nor any of their respective Subsidiaries, nor, to the knowledge of any Borrower and their respective
Subsidiaries (in each case, other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries), any director, officer, employee, agent, affiliate or representative
thereof, is an individual or entity currently the subject of any Sanctions or included on OFAC’s List of Specially Designated Nationals, HMT’s
Consolidated List of Financial Sanctions Targets and the Investment Ban List, or any similar list enforced by any other relevant sanctions
authority, nor is any Borrower or any Subsidiary located, organized or resident in a Designated Jurisdiction.
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5.26
Anti-Corruption Laws. Each Borrower and its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries) have conducted
their businesses in material compliance with the United States Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977 and other similar anti-corruption
legislation in other jurisdictions that are applicable to any Borrower or its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries)
(including, if applicable, the UK Bribery Act 2010), and have instituted and maintained policies and procedures designed to promote and
achieve compliance with such laws.
5.27
Affected Financial Institutions. No Loan Party is an Affected Financial Institution.
5.28
Covered Entities. No Loan Party is a Covered Entity.
ARTICLE VI. AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS
So long as any Lender shall have any Commitment hereunder, any Loan or other Obligation hereunder (other than Obligations
consisting of continuing indemnities and other contingent Obligations that, in each case, expressly survive termination of this Agreement and
for which no claim has been made against any Loan Party) shall remain unpaid or unsatisfied, or any Letter of Credit shall remain outstanding,
the Company shall, and shall (except in the case of the covenants set forth in Sections 6.01, 6.02, and 6.03) cause each Subsidiary (other than,
with respect to all covenants in this Article VI other than those contained in Section 6.07, the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries and any
Designated Escrow Subsidiary) to:
6.01
Financial Statements. Deliver to the Administrative Agent and each Lender, in form and detail satisfactory to the
Administrative Agent and the Required Lenders (provided that any item in clause (a) or (b) below which is filed with the SEC in accordance
with SEC requirements shall be deemed to be satisfactory):
(a)
as soon as available, but in any event within ninety (90) days after the end of each fiscal year of the Company (or if earlier,
fifteen (15) days after the date required to be filed with the SEC):
(i)
an audited consolidated balance sheet of the Company and its Subsidiaries as at the end of such fiscal year, setting
forth in comparative form the figures for the previous fiscal year, in reasonable detail and prepared in accordance with GAAP;
(ii)
if requested by the Administrative Agent, a consolidating balance sheet of the Company and its Subsidiaries as at the
end of such fiscal year, with New Vehicle and Used Vehicle inventories designated, as well as associated lien payoffs, in each case prior
to intercompany eliminations (and, upon request of the Administrative Agent, setting forth in comparative form the figures for the
previous fiscal year), all in reasonable detail and prepared in accordance with GAAP, and accompanied by a combined balance sheet of
the Subsidiaries that operate Ford or Lincoln dealerships as at the end of such fiscal year (and upon request of the Administrative
Agent, setting forth in comparative form the figures for the previous fiscal year);
(iii)
the related audited consolidated statement of income or operations for such fiscal year setting forth in each case in
comparative form the figures for the previous fiscal year, all in reasonable detail and prepared in accordance with GAAP;
(iv)
if requested by the Administrative Agent, the related consolidating statements of income or operations for such fiscal
year (and, upon request of the Administrative Agent, setting forth in comparative form the figures for the previous fiscal year), all in
reasonable detail and prepared in accordance with GAAP, and accompanied by combined statements of income and operations of the
Subsidiaries that operate Ford or Lincoln dealerships for such fiscal year (and upon request of the Administrative Agent, setting forth in
comparative form the figures for the previous fiscal year); and
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(v)
the related audited consolidated statements of stockholders’ equity and cash flows for such fiscal year setting forth in
comparative form the figures for the previous fiscal year, all in reasonable detail and prepared in accordance with GAAP;
such consolidated financial statements to be audited and accompanied by (x) a report and opinion of Ernst & Young LLP or
any other Registered Public Accounting Firm of nationally recognized standing reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent,
which report and opinion shall be prepared in accordance with audit standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board and
applicable Securities Laws and shall not be subject to any “going concern” or like qualification or exception (other than a “going
concern” statement, explanatory note or like qualification or exception resulting solely from the Maturity Date under this Agreement
occurring within one year from the time such opinion is delivered) or any qualification or exception as to the scope of such audit;
(b)
as soon as available, but in any event within forty-five (45) days after the end of each of the first three fiscal quarters of each
fiscal year of the Company (or if earlier, five days after the date required to be filed with the SEC):
(i)
an unaudited consolidated balance sheet of the Company and its Subsidiaries as at the end of such fiscal quarter, setting
forth in comparative form the figures for the corresponding fiscal quarter of the previous fiscal year, in reasonable detail and prepared
in accordance with GAAP;
(ii)
if requested by the Administrative Agent, a consolidating balance sheet of the Company and its Subsidiaries as at the
end of such fiscal quarter, with New Vehicle and Used Vehicle inventories designated, as well as associated lien payoffs, in each case
prior to intercompany eliminations (and, upon the request of the Administrative Agent, setting forth in comparative form the figures for
the corresponding fiscal quarter of the previous fiscal year), all in reasonable detail and prepared in accordance with GAAP, and
accompanied by a combined balance sheet of the Subsidiaries that operate Ford or Lincoln dealerships as at the end of such fiscal
quarter (and upon request of the Administrative Agent, setting forth in comparative form the figures for the previous fiscal quarter);
(iii)
the related unaudited consolidated statement of income or operations for the portion of the Company’s fiscal year then
ended, setting forth in each case in comparative form the figures for the corresponding portion of the previous fiscal year, all in
reasonable detail and prepared in accordance with GAAP;
(iv)
if requested by the Administrative Agent, the related consolidating statements of income or operations for the portion
of the Company’s fiscal year then ended (and, upon the request of the Administrative Agent, setting forth in comparative form the
figures for the corresponding portion of the previous fiscal year), all in reasonable detail and prepared in accordance with GAAP, and
accompanied by combined statements of income and operations of the Subsidiaries that operate Ford or Lincoln dealerships for such
portion of the fiscal year then ended (and upon request of the Administrative Agent, setting forth in comparative form the figures for
the corresponding portion of the previous fiscal year); and
(v)
the related unaudited consolidated statements of stockholders’ equity and cash flows for such fiscal quarter (and the
portion of the Company’s fiscal year then ended) setting forth in comparative form the figures for the corresponding fiscal quarter (and
portion) of the previous fiscal year, all in reasonable detail and prepared in accordance with GAAP;
such consolidated and consolidating financial statements described in this Section 6.01(b) to be unaudited and certified by a
Responsible Officer of the Company as fairly presenting the financial condition, results of operations, shareholders’ equity and cash flows of
the Company and its Subsidiaries
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in accordance with GAAP, subject only to normal year-end audit adjustments and the absence of footnotes;
(c)
if requested by the Administrative Agent, as soon as available, but in any event within twenty (20) days after the end of each
fiscal quarter (including the fourth quarter of each fiscal year) of the Company quarterly factory form financial statements for each Vehicle
Borrower;
As to any information contained in materials furnished pursuant to Section 6.02(f), the Company shall not be separately required to
furnish such information under clause (a) or (b) above, but the foregoing shall not be in derogation of the obligation of the Company to furnish
the information and materials described in clauses (a) and (b) above at the times specified therein.
6.02
Certificates; Other Information. Deliver to the Administrative Agent and each Lender, in form and detail satisfactory to the
Administrative Agent:
(a)
Concurrently with:
(i)
the delivery of the financial statements referred to in Section 6.01(a) and (b), (A) a duly completed Compliance
Certificate signed by a Responsible Officer of the Company, including the calculation of the financial covenants set forth in Section
7.11(a) and (b), along with calculations of Restricted Payment availability and usage and the Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio in
form and substance reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent, (B) a schedule (which such schedule may be included in the
Compliance Certificate delivered with respect to such period) describing the entry of any final, non-appealable judgment or decree
against the Company and/or any of its Subsidiaries if the aggregate amount of such judgment or decree exceeds $15,000,000 (after
deducting the amount with respect to which the Company or such Subsidiary is insured and with respect to which the insurer has
assumed the defense in writing and has not contested or denied its responsibility for such amount) and (C) a duly completed Revolving
Borrowing Base Certificate signed by a Responsible Officer of the Company as at the end of the respective fiscal quarter or fiscal year,
provided that, if any Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, the Company shall deliver such Revolving Borrowing
Base Certificates, each signed by a Responsible Officer of the Company, at any other time requested by the Administrative Agent;
(ii)
the delivery of the financial statements referred to in Section 6.01(a), financial projections for the 12 months
succeeding the date of such financial statements, such projections to be prepared by management of the Company, in form reasonably
satisfactory to the Administrative Agent; and
(iii)
any event described herein requiring Pro Forma Compliance, to the extent otherwise required under Section 7.04, 7.16
or 7.19, a duly completed Pro Forma Compliance Certificate (including the calculation of the financial covenants set forth in Section
7.11(a) and (b)), Pro Forma Revolving Borrowing Base Certificate, or Pro Forma Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base Certificate,
as applicable, signed by a Responsible Officer of the Company;
In addition to other reporting requirements under this Agreement, if calculation of any financial ratio gives pro forma effect to
any Material Disposition or Material Acquisition occurring during the relevant period or after the relevant period and on or prior to the
date of determination, as described above and if (Y) the aggregate adjustment to Consolidated EBITDAR (as a result of all Material
Dispositions and Material Acquisitions) either increases or decreases Consolidated EBITDAR for such period by at least 10% or (Z)
the Administrative Agent requests such additional reporting, then (in the case of either clause (Y) or (Z)), the Company will provide
additional financial reporting and compliance reporting segregating actual financial line items from pro forma line items for such
period in a manner reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent.
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(b)
within twenty (20) days after the end of each calendar month, a duly completed Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base
Certificate signed by a Responsible Officer of the Company as at the end of such calendar month; provided that, if any Event of Default shall
have occurred and be continuing, the Company shall deliver such Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base Certificates, each signed by a
Responsible Officer of the Company, at any other time requested by the Administrative Agent;
(c)
promptly upon the reasonable request of the Administrative Agent from time, receivables ageing reports and inventory and
equipment listings, in either consolidated or consolidating format, including a detailed list of each Used Vehicle constituting Eligible Used
Vehicle Inventory, stating the make, model, year and book value of each such Vehicle;
(d)
in the event of any Acquisition, the certificates and information required by Section 7.19;
(e)
within a reasonable period of time after any reasonable request by the Administrative Agent, Vehicle Title Documentation and
manufacturer/dealer statements;
(f)
promptly after the same are available, copies of each annual report, proxy or financial statement or other report or
communication sent to the stockholders of the Company, and copies of all annual, regular, periodic and special reports and registration
statements which the Company may file or be required to file with the SEC under Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
and not otherwise required to be delivered to the Administrative Agent pursuant hereto;
(g)
promptly, and in any event within five Business Days after receipt thereof by any Loan Party or any Subsidiary thereof, copies
of each material notice or other material correspondence received from the SEC (or comparable agency in any applicable non-U.S. jurisdiction)
concerning any investigation or possible investigation by such agency regarding financial or other operational results of any Loan Party or any
Subsidiary thereof;
(h)
[reserved];
(i)
in the event of any casualty loss or condemnation suffered by any Loan Party that has the effect of reducing either the
Revolving Borrowing Base or the Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base by more than $35,000,000, an updated Revolving Borrowing Base
Certificate or Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base Certificate, as applicable, reflecting such casualty loss or condemnation;
(j)
in the event any real property is added to or removed from the Revolving Borrowing Base, an updated Revolving Borrowing
Base Certificate reflecting such addition or removal, as applicable;
(k)
promptly following any request therefor, provide information and documentation reasonably requested by the Administrative
Agent or any Lender for purposes of compliance with applicable “know your customer” and anti-money-laundering rules and regulations,
including the PATRIOT Act and the Beneficial Ownership Regulation; and
(l)
promptly, such additional information regarding the business, financial or corporate affairs of the Company or any Subsidiary,
or compliance with the terms of the Loan Documents, as the Administrative Agent or any Lender may from time to time reasonably request.
Documents required to be delivered pursuant to Section 6.01(a), (b) or (c) or Section 6.02(f) (to the extent any such documents are
included in materials otherwise filed with the SEC) may be delivered electronically and if so delivered, shall be deemed to have been delivered
on the date (i) on which the Company posts such documents, or provides a link thereto on the Company’s website on the Internet at the website
address listed on Schedule 10.02; or (ii) on which such documents are posted on the Company’s behalf on an Internet or intranet website, if any,
to which each Lender and the Administrative Agent have access (whether a commercial, third-party website or whether sponsored by the
Administrative Agent); provided that, the Company shall notify the Administrative Agent and each
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Lender (by facsimile or electronic mail) of the posting of any such documents and provide to the Administrative Agent by electronic mail
electronic versions (i.e., soft copies) of such documents. The Administrative Agent shall have no obligation to request the delivery or to
maintain copies of the documents referred to above, and in any event shall have no responsibility to monitor compliance by the Company with
any such request for delivery, and each Lender shall be solely responsible for requesting delivery to it or maintaining its copies of such
documents.
Each Borrower hereby acknowledges that (a) the Administrative Agent and/or the Arranger may, but shall not be obligated to, make
available to the Lenders and the L/C Issuer materials and/or information provided by or on behalf of the Company or any Loan Party hereunder
(collectively, “Borrower Materials”) by posting the Borrower Materials on IntraLinks, SyndTrak, ClearPar or another similar electronic system
(the “Platform”) and (b) certain of the Lenders (each, a “Public Lender”) may have personnel who do not wish to receive material non-public
information with respect to the Company or its Affiliates, or the respective securities of any of the foregoing, and who may be engaged in
investment and other market-related activities with respect to such Persons’ securities. Each Borrower hereby agrees that (w) all Borrower
Materials that are to be made available to Public Lenders shall be clearly and conspicuously marked “PUBLIC” which, at a minimum, shall
mean that the word “PUBLIC” shall appear prominently on the first page thereof; (x) by marking Borrower Materials “PUBLIC”, the Company
and each Borrower shall be deemed to have authorized the Administrative Agent, the Arranger, the L/C Issuer and the Lenders to treat such
Borrower Materials as not containing any material non-public information with respect to the Company and the other Borrowers or their
respective securities for purposes of United States Federal and state securities laws (provided, however, that to the extent such Borrower
Materials constitute Information, they shall be treated as set forth in Section 10.07); (y) all Borrower Materials marked “PUBLIC” are
permitted to be made available through a portion of the Platform designated “Public Side Information”; and (z) the Administrative Agent and
the Arranger shall be entitled to treat any Borrower Materials that are not marked “PUBLIC” as being suitable only for posting on a portion of
the Platform not designated “Public Side Information”.
6.03
Notices. Promptly following any Responsible Officer of the Company having notice or knowledge thereof, notify the
Administrative Agent:
(a)
of the occurrence of any Default;
(b)
of any matter that has resulted or could reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect, including (i) breach or
non-performance of, or any default under, a Contractual Obligation of the Company or any Subsidiary that has resulted or could reasonably be
expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect; (ii) any dispute, litigation, investigation, proceeding or suspension between the Company or
any Subsidiary and any Governmental Authority which dispute, litigation, investigation, proceeding or suspension arising under this clause (ii)
has resulted or could reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect; or (iii) the commencement of, or any material development
in, any litigation or proceeding affecting the Company or any Subsidiary, including pursuant to any applicable Environmental Laws, where the
result of such event arising under this clause (iii) has resulted or could reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect;
(c)
of the occurrence of any ERISA Event;
(d)
of any material change in accounting policies or financial reporting practices by the Company or any Subsidiary;
(e)
of the incurrence by the Company or any Subsidiary of any Indebtedness (other than the Obligations) having a principal
amount in excess of $50,000,000;
(f)
of any sale of Equity Interests of any Subsidiary to any Person that is not a Loan Party;
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(g)
of any Disposition by the Company or any Subsidiary of any dealership, Franchise Agreement or Framework Agreement to the
extent required by Section 7.04;
(h)
of (i) any Franchise Agreement entered into after the Closing Date (and a copy of such Franchise Agreement) which deviates in
any material respect from the Franchise Agreements for the applicable vehicle manufacturer or distributor delivered on or prior to the Closing
Date, (ii) any Framework Agreement (and a copy of such Framework Agreement) entered into after the Closing Date (including the subject
matter and term of such Framework Agreement), (iii) any material amendment or other modification (and a copy of such amendment or
modification) of any Framework Agreement, and (iv) any material adverse change in the relationship between the Company or any Subsidiary
and any vehicle manufacturer or distributor, including the written threat of loss of a new vehicle franchise or the written threat of termination of
a Franchise Agreement or Framework Agreement; provided, that the obligations under this clause (h) shall be subject in all respects to any
confidentiality or similar restriction binding upon the Company or any Subsidiary; and
(i)
of the occurrence of any Disposition by the Company or any Subsidiary to the extent required pursuant to Section 7.04;
Each notice pursuant to this Section 6.03 shall be accompanied by a statement of a Responsible Officer of the Company setting forth
details of the occurrence referred to therein and, if applicable, stating what action the Company has taken and proposes to take with respect
thereto. Each notice pursuant to Section 6.03(a) shall describe with particularity any and all provisions of this Agreement and any other Loan
Document that have been breached. The Administrative Agent shall promptly deliver to each Lender each notice and accompanying statement
of Responsible Officer delivered to the Administrative Agent pursuant to this Section 6.03.
6.04
Payment of Obligations. Pay and discharge and cause each of its Subsidiaries to pay and discharge, when due, (i) all U.S.
federal and material state income or property taxes, and all other material taxes, assessments and governmental charges or levies imposed upon
the Company or such Subsidiary, as the case may be, and (ii) all lawful claims for labor, materials and supplies to the extent the failure to pay or
discharge such claims for labor, materials and supplies would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, unless and only to the
extent, in the case of each of clauses (i) and (ii) above, that the Company or such Subsidiary, as the case may be, is contesting such taxes,
assessments and governmental charges, levies or claims in good faith and by appropriate proceedings and the Company or such Subsidiary has
set aside on its books such reserves or other appropriate provisions therefor as may be required by GAAP.
6.05
Preservation of Existence, Etc.; Maintenance of Vehicle Title Documentation. (a) Except for any Unrestricted Subsidiary,
preserve, renew and maintain in full force and effect its legal existence and good standing under the Laws of the jurisdiction of its organization
except in a transaction permitted by Section 7.03 or 7.04; (b) take all reasonable action to maintain all rights, privileges, permits, licenses and
franchises necessary or desirable in the normal conduct of its business, except to the extent that failure to do so could not reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; (c) preserve or renew all of its registered patents, trademarks, trade names and service marks, the
non-preservation of which would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; and (d) if applicable, preserve and maintain, in
accordance with its standard policies and procedures, all manufacturer statements of origin, certificates of origin, certificates of title or
ownership and other customary vehicle title documentation (collectively, the “Vehicle Title Documentation”) necessary or desirable in the
normal conduct of its business and maintain records evidencing which Vehicles are being used as Demonstrators and Rental Vehicles.
6.06
Maintenance of Properties. (a) Maintain, preserve and protect all of its properties and equipment necessary in the operation of
its business in good working order and condition, ordinary wear and tear excepted except where the failure to do so could not reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; (b) make all necessary repairs thereto and renewals and replacements thereof except where the
failure to do so could not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; and (c) use the standard of care typical in the industry in
the operation and maintenance of its facilities.
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6.07
Maintenance of Insurance. Maintain with financially sound and reputable insurance companies (including any Captive
Insurance Company, in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement), insurance with respect to its properties and business
against loss or damage of the kinds customarily insured against by Persons engaged in the same or similar business, of such types and in such
amounts as are customarily carried under similar circumstances by such other Persons and such endorsements as are reasonably acceptable to
the Administrative Agent. The Company and its Subsidiaries will, and will cause each Captive Insurance Company and each Specified
Insurance Subsidiary to, preserve and maintain: (i) the licensing and certification of each Captive Insurance Company or Specified Insurance
Subsidiary, as applicable, pursuant to all applicable insurance and warranty laws and regulations; (ii) all certifications and authorizations
necessary to ensure that each Captive Insurance Company is eligible for all reimbursements available under all applicable insurance and service
contract laws and regulations; and (iii) all material licenses, permits, authorizations and qualifications required under all applicable insurance
and service contract laws and regulations in connection with the existence and operation of each Captive Insurance Company and each
Specified Insurance Subsidiary. If requested by the Administrative Agent, Borrowers will provide to the Administrative Agent such audited
statements such Captive Insurance Company and such Specified Insurance Subsidiary as requested by the Administrative Agent as of the end of
each fiscal year within the sooner to occur of: (i) five days following filing with the applicable regulatory agencies; or (ii) 180 days following
the end of such fiscal year. Each Captive Insurance Company and each Specified Insurance Subsidiary shall conduct its insurance business in
material compliance with all applicable laws and using sound actuarial principles. The insurance premiums and other expenses charged by any
Captive Insurance Company to the Company and its Subsidiaries shall be reasonable and customary and in accordance with all applicable
insurance and service contract laws and regulations. The insurance premiums and other fees charged by any Specified Insurance Company to
the customers of the Vehicle Borrowers shall be in accordance with all applicable insurance and service contract laws and regulations. If
requested by the Administrative Agent, the Company and its Subsidiaries will provide the Administrative Agent copies of any outside actuarial
reports prepared with respect to any projection, valuation or appraisal of any Captive Insurance Company or any Specified Insurance Company
promptly.
6.08
Compliance with Laws and Material Contractual Obligations. Comply in all material respects with the requirements of all
Laws and all orders, writs, injunctions and decrees and all Contractual Obligations applicable to it or to its business or property, except in such
instances in which (a) such requirement of Law or order, writ, injunction or decree is being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings
diligently conducted; or (b) the failure to comply with such requirement of Law, order, writ, injunction, decree or contractual obligation could
not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
6.09
Books and Records. Maintain proper books of record and account, in which full, true and correct in all material respects
entries in conformity with GAAP consistently applied shall be made of all material financial transactions and material matters involving the
assets and business of the Company or such Subsidiary, as the case may be, including, if applicable, books and records specifying the year,
make, model, cost, price, location and vehicle identification number of each Vehicle owned by the Company or such Subsidiary.
6.10
Inspection Rights. Permit representatives and independent contractors of the Administrative Agent and each Lender to visit
and inspect any of its properties (including inspecting Vehicles and conducting random samples of the Net Book Value of the Used Vehicles and
any assets included in the Revolving Borrowing Base), to examine its corporate, financial and operating records, and make copies thereof or
abstracts therefrom, and to discuss its affairs, finances and accounts with its directors, officers, and independent public accountants, all at such
reasonable times during normal business hours and as often as may be reasonably desired, upon reasonable advance notice to the Company
(except for access required in connection with a floorplan audit pursuant to Section 6.12, which will be permitted at any time during regular
business hours (or at other times consistent with standard industry practice) and without advance notice); provided, however, that (a) without
limiting amounts that may be owed under any Fee Letter or Section 6.12 below, while no Event of Default exists the Borrowers shall be
responsible for expenses associated with only one such visit or inspection by the Administrative Agent and its contractors per calendar year,
and (b) when an Event of Default exists the Administrative Agent or any Lender (or any of their respective representatives or independent
contractors) may do any of
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the foregoing at any time or times (all at the expense of the Borrowers) during normal business hours and without advance notice.
6.11
Use of Proceeds. Use the proceeds of the Borrowings:
(a)
in the case of the Revolving Credit Facility (i) to continue indebtedness outstanding under the revolving credit facility of the
Existing Credit Agreement, and (ii) for Permitted Acquisitions, other working capital, capital expenditures and other lawful corporate purposes,
in each case not in contravention of any Law or of any Loan Document;
(b)
in the case of the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility (i) to finance the acquisition by the New Vehicle Borrowers of New Vehicle
Inventory (including dealer trade, Demonstrators, Rental Vehicles and Fleet Vehicles) pursuant to New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan
Notices, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan Notices, Payment Commitments, Payoff Letter Commitments or electronic requests via the
Floorplan On-Line System, (ii) to refinance indebtedness outstanding under existing new vehicle floorplan facilities of the New Vehicle
Borrowers, provided pursuant to the Existing Credit Agreement, in each case not in contravention of any Law or any Loan Document and (iii)
if deemed necessary by the Administrative Agent, to finance the return of amounts from the New Vehicle Floorplan Offset Account to New
Vehicle Borrowers pursuant to Section 2.09(b)(ii); and
(c)
in the case of the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility (i) to finance the acquisition of Used Vehicle inventory, (ii) to continue
indebtedness outstanding under the used vehicle floorplan facility of the Used Vehicle Borrowers, provided pursuant to the Existing Credit
Agreement, and (iii) other working capital, capital expenditures and other lawful corporate purposes (including Permitted Acquisitions), in each
case not in contravention of any Law or of any Loan Document;
provided that no Credit Extension shall be advanced by any Lender directly to any Unrestricted Subsidiary; provided, further, that the
foregoing proviso shall not be construed to prohibit Investments expressly permitted by Section 7.05.
6.12
Floorplan Audits.
(a)
Entry on Premises. Each New Vehicle Borrower shall permit a duly authorized representative of the New Vehicle Floorplan
Swing Line Lender to enter upon such New Vehicle Borrower’s premises during regular business hours (or at other times consistent with
standard industry practice) to perform audits of Vehicles constituting Collateral in a manner reasonably satisfactory to the New Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender on a quarterly basis or at other intervals as required by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender from time
to time, but no less frequently than three times in any twelve (12) month period. Each New Vehicle Borrower shall assist the New Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender, and its representatives, in whatever way reasonably necessary to make the inspections and audits provided for
herein. The Borrowers (jointly and severally) shall reimburse the Administrative Agent for any floorplan audits if an out-of-trust situation or
Event of Default has occurred, and the Borrowers shall continue to reimburse the Administrative Agent for such floorplan audits until such time
as (i) consecutive floorplan audits demonstrate no out-of-trust situation and (ii) no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing.
(b)
Delivery of Audit Results. Within thirty (30) days after the end of each calendar month of the Company, the New Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender shall deliver to the Administrative Agent a summary of the audit results of each of the New Vehicle Borrowers
performed by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender during the calendar month just ended, setting forth therein a spread sheet
reflecting, for each New Vehicle Borrower, a summary of the results of each floorplan audit during the calendar month. The Administrative
Agent shall promptly deliver a copy of such report to each Lender.
6.13
Location of Vehicles. Keep the Vehicles only at the locations set forth on Schedule 5.18, as such schedule may be revised from
time to time as set forth in the Compliance Certificate delivered pursuant to Section 6.02(a), except that Vehicles may, in the ordinary course of
business, be (a) in transit between locations, (b) in transit for “dealer trades”, (c) being test driven by potential customers
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or (d) being repaired at a collision repair center, and in each such instance described in clauses (a) – (d), the Company shall maintain records
with the location of the Vehicle and, where applicable, the name of, and such other relevant information as is standard in the industry with
respect to, the dealer involved in such a dealer trade (or the customer test driving such Vehicle), and shall provide any such records to the
Administrative Agent promptly upon the Administrative Agent’s request therefor.
6.14
Additional Subsidiaries. As soon as practicable (but in any event within ten (10) days in the case of any Restricted Subsidiary
that owns or operates a dealership, and thirty (30) days in the case of any other Restricted Subsidiary (or, in either such case, such longer period
as the Administrative Agent may agree in its sole discretion) after the acquisition, creation or designation of any Restricted Subsidiary that is a
Domestic Subsidiary, including the creation of any such Person pursuant to a Division (or the date a Subsidiary otherwise qualifies as a
Restricted Subsidiary that is a Domestic Subsidiary), cause to be delivered to the Administrative Agent each of the following:
(a)
a Joinder Agreement duly executed by such Restricted Subsidiary with all schedules and information thereto appropriately
completed with respect to (i) such Restricted Subsidiary (A) becoming a “Used Vehicle Borrower” and a “Subsidiary Guarantor”, if such
Restricted Subsidiary owns or operates a dealership, (B) becoming a “New Vehicle Borrower” and a “Subsidiary Guarantor”, if such Restricted
Subsidiary is a Specified Subsidiary, and (C) becoming a “Subsidiary Guarantor”, if such Restricted Subsidiary does not own or operate a
dealership, and (ii) the Equity Interests of such Restricted Subsidiary becoming pledged pursuant to the Pledge Agreement or escrowed
pursuant to the Escrow and Security Agreement, as the case may be;
(b)
[reserved];
(c)
UCC financing statements naming such Subsidiary as “Debtor” and naming the Revolving Administrative Agent for the benefit
of the Secured Parties as “Secured Party,” in form, substance and number sufficient in the reasonable opinion of the Administrative Agent and
its counsel to be filed in all UCC filing offices in which filing is necessary or advisable to perfect in favor of the Revolving Administrative
Agent for the benefit of the Secured Parties the Liens on the Collateral conferred under such Joinder Agreement and other Security Instruments
to the extent such Lien may be perfected by UCC filings;
(d)
unless the Administrative Agent expressly waives such requirement in accordance with Section 10.01, in the case of any single
Acquisition or any related series of Acquisitions with an aggregate Cost of Acquisition in excess of the lesser of (i) $100,000,000 and (ii) an
amount that results in an increase or decrease in the aggregate of the Revolving Borrowing Base or the Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base
of more than ten percent (10%), an opinion or opinions of counsel to such Restricted Subsidiary dated as of the date of delivery of such Joinder
Agreements (and other Loan Documents) provided for in this Section 6.14 and addressed to the Administrative Agent, in form and substance
acceptable to the Administrative Agent;
(e)
the documents described in Sections 4.01(a)(iii), (iv), (vii), (x), (xi) and (xx) with respect to such Restricted Subsidiary;
(f)
within 3 Business Days of demand therefor by the Administrative Agent, evidence satisfactory to the Administrative Agent that
all taxes, filing fees, recording fees related to the perfection of the Liens securing the Obligations have been paid and all reasonable costs and
expenses of the Administrative Agent in connection therewith have been paid.
6.15
Further Assurances. Execute, acknowledge, deliver, and record or file such further instruments, including, without limitation,
further security agreements, financing statements, and continuation statements, and do such further acts as may be reasonably necessary,
desirable, or proper to carry out more effectively the purposes of this Agreement, including, without limitation, (i) causing any additions,
substitutions, replacements, or equipment related to the Vehicles financed hereunder to be covered by and subject to the Liens created in the
Loan Documents to which any Vehicle Borrower is a party; and (ii) with respect to any Vehicles which are, or are required to be, subject to
Liens under the Loan Documents, execute, acknowledge, endorse, deliver, procure, and record or file any document or
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instrument, including, without limitation, any financing statement or, if an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, any Vehicle Title
Documentation, deemed advisable by the Administrative Agent or the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender to protect the Liens granted
in this Agreement or the Loan Documents against the rights or interests of third Persons, and the Company will pay all reasonable costs
connected with any of the foregoing.
6.16
Landlord Waivers. With respect to any real property leased by the Company or any Loan Party from a Person that is not a
Loan Party, the Company and each Loan Party shall deliver to the Administrative Agent Landlord Waivers duly executed by the applicable
landlord in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent and in sufficient quantity so that the Administrative Agent
shall have satisfactory access to Collateral located in at least seventy percent (70%) of the aggregate owned and leased dealer locations of the
Company and its Subsidiaries (it being acknowledged and agreed by the Administrative Agent and the Lenders that the Administrative Agent
has satisfactory access to Collateral located at dealer locations owned by a Loan Party which has entered into the Security Agreement
(including pursuant to a Joinder Agreement)); provided that if the addition of a Subsidiary as contemplated by Section 6.14 causes the
Company and each Loan Party to cease to satisfy the seventy percent (70%) requirement described above, the Company and each Loan Party
shall, within ninety (90) days from the addition of such Subsidiary, deliver additional Landlord Waivers necessary to satisfy the seventy percent
(70%) requirement.
6.17
Demonstrator, Rental Vehicle or Other Mileaged New Vehicle. With respect to any Vehicle used by the Company or any
Subsidiary as a Demonstrator, Rental Vehicle or other mileaged New Vehicle, the Company or such Subsidiary shall designate such Vehicle in
its books and records as a Demonstrator, Rental Vehicle or other mileaged New Vehicle, as the case may be, and indicate in such books and
records when such Vehicle was Deemed To Be A Mileage Vehicle.
6.18
Anti-Corruption Laws. Conduct its businesses in material compliance with the United States Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of
1977 and other similar anti-corruption legislation in other jurisdictions that are applicable to any Borrower or its Subsidiaries (including, if
applicable, the UK Bribery Act 2010), and maintain policies and procedures designed to promote and achieve compliance with such laws.
ARTICLE VII.
NEGATIVE COVENANTS
So long as any Lender shall have any Commitment hereunder, any Loan or other Obligation hereunder (other than Obligations
consisting of continuing indemnities and other contingent Obligations that, in each case, expressly survive termination of this Agreement and
for which no claim has been made against any Loan Party) shall remain unpaid or unsatisfied, or any Letter of Credit shall remain outstanding,
the Company shall not, nor shall it permit any Subsidiary (other than the Specified Insurance Subsidiaries and any Designated Escrow
Subsidiary) to, directly or indirectly:
7.01
Indebtedness. Incur, create, assume or suffer to exist any Indebtedness, except:
(a)
the Obligations under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents;
(b)
Indebtedness of the Company or any Subsidiary existing at the Closing Date which is reflected in Schedule 7.01(b) hereto;
(c)
Indebtedness created under leases which, in accordance with GAAP, have been recorded and/or should have been recorded on
the books of the applicable Borrower as capital leases or finance leases;
(d)
unsecured Subordinated Indebtedness;
(e)
accounts payable (for the deferred purchase price of property or services) which are from time to time incurred in the ordinary
course of business and which (i) are not in excess of (A) ninety (90)
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days past the due date or (B) if such account payable has no due date, one hundred twenty (120) days past the invoice or billing date or (ii) if
outstanding for more than ninety (90) days past such due date (or one hundred twenty (120) days past such invoice or billing date, as
applicable), as to which a good faith dispute exists and adequate reserves in conformity with GAAP have been established on the books of such
Person;
(f)
Permitted Real Estate Debt and Guarantees by the Company or any Subsidiary that is a Loan Party;
(g)
Indebtedness (other than floorplan Indebtedness) of any Subsidiary of the Company in existence (but not incurred or created in
connection with an acquisition) on the date on which such Subsidiary is acquired by any Loan Party pursuant to a Permitted Acquisition,
provided (i) neither the Company nor any of its other Subsidiaries has any obligation with respect to such Indebtedness, (ii) none of the
properties of the Company or any of its other Subsidiaries is bound with respect to such Indebtedness, and (iii) the Company is in full
compliance with Section 7.11 hereof immediately before and after such acquisition;
(h)
Indebtedness (other than floorplan Indebtedness) secured by Liens upon any property hereafter acquired by the Company or
any of its Subsidiaries which Indebtedness is in existence on the date of a Permitted Acquisition (but not incurred or created in connection with
such acquisition) at a time when the Company is in full compliance with Section 7.11 hereof immediately before and after such Permitted
Acquisition, which Indebtedness is assumed by such acquiring Person simultaneously with such acquisition, which Liens extend only to such
property so acquired (and not to any after-acquired property) and with respect to which Indebtedness neither the Company nor any of its
Subsidiaries (other than the acquiring Person and its Subsidiaries) has any obligation;
(i)
contingent obligations (including Guarantees) of any Indebtedness permitted hereunder;
(j)
Indebtedness in respect of obligations (contingent or otherwise) of the Company or any Subsidiary existing or arising under
any Swap Contract, provided that (i) such obligations are (or were) entered into by such Person in the ordinary course of business for the
purpose of directly mitigating risks or managing costs associated with liabilities, commitments, investments, assets, or property held or
reasonably anticipated by such Person, or changes in the value of securities issued by such Person, and not for purposes of speculation; and (ii)
such Swap Contract does not contain any provision exonerating the non-defaulting party from its obligation to make payments on outstanding
transactions to the defaulting party;
(k)
Indebtedness that renews, refinances, refunds or extends any then-existing Indebtedness (other than Permitted FMCC Floorplan
Indebtedness or Permitted Service Loaner Indebtedness) of any Loan Party, so long as (A) such renewal, refinancing, refunding or extension
does not in any material respect increase the principal amount thereof or expand or add any property subject to any Lien (unless otherwise
permitted under this Agreement), (B) if the Indebtedness being refinanced is Subordinated Indebtedness, then such refinancing Indebtedness
must also be Subordinated Indebtedness, (C) such renewal, refinancing, refunding, or extension has a final maturity date equal to or greater
than the final maturity of, and has a weighted average life to maturity equal to or greater than the weighted average life to maturity of, the
Indebtedness being renewed, refinanced, refunded or extended, and (D) without limitation of any other provision herein (including Section
7.16), the terms and conditions (including, without limitation, terms and conditions relating to repurchase, redemption, prepayment and
defeasance requirements) of such renewal, refinancing, refunding or extension are not materially more restrictive or burdensome than the
Indebtedness being renewed, refinanced, refunded or extended (as determined by the Company in good faith);
(l)
Indebtedness of any Loan Party secured by Liens upon property (other than Inventory, property acquired using purchase-
money Indebtedness with respect to that property provided by Lenders pursuant to this Agreement, or any property included in the Revolving
Borrowing Base) which Liens extend only to such property, with respect to which Indebtedness none of the Subsidiaries other than the owner
of such encumbered asset has any obligation;
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(m)
unsecured Indebtedness of the Company and Guarantees of such Indebtedness by Subsidiary Guarantors; provided that (A) the
Company and its Subsidiaries shall be in Pro Forma Compliance after giving effect to the incurrence of any such Indebtedness, and (B) not
more than $75,000,000 of such aggregate amount may have a maturity prior to the then applicable Maturity Date at the time of such incurrence;
(n)
Indebtedness consisting of Guarantees by the Company or any of its Subsidiaries in favor of any Person of retail installment
contracts or other retail payment obligations in respect of Vehicles sold to a customer; provided that the sum of (A) the aggregate face amount
of such guaranteed retail installment contracts and other retail payment obligations described in this Section 7.01(n), plus (B) the aggregate
amount of Investments (on a gross basis excluding any reserves) permitted under Section 7.05(j) shall not exceed $35,000,000 at any time;
(o)
Obligations in respect of surety or other bonds or similar instruments entered into in the ordinary course of business; provided
that, the aggregate amount of such Indebtedness shall not exceed $25,000,000 at any time;
(p)
Unsecured Indebtedness owed by the Company or any Subsidiary Guarantor to the Company or to any Subsidiary of the
Company;
(q)
Indebtedness of any Borrower created under a Qualified Service Loaner Program;
(r)
Permitted FMCC Floorplan Indebtedness; and
(s)
Indebtedness of the Company under a bridge loan facility with a maturity that is 364 days or less from the date of the
incurrence of such Indebtedness.
7.02
Liens. Incur, create, assume or permit to exist any Lien on any of its property or assets, whether owned at the date hereof or
hereafter acquired, except:
(a)
Liens securing payment of the Obligations;
(b)
Liens of the lessor on the property leased pursuant to a lease permitted by Section 7.01(c);
(c)
Liens on property (other than Inventory, property acquired using purchase-money Indebtedness with respect to that property
provided by Lenders pursuant to this Agreement, or any property included in the Revolving Borrowing Base), which Liens secure Indebtedness
permitted by Section 7.01(l);
(d)
Liens on real property, fixtures, related real property rights and related contracts, and proceeds of the foregoing (including,
without limitation, insurance proceeds in respect of the foregoing) owned by such Loan Party (in each case, other than property included in the
Revolving Borrowing Base), securing Permitted Real Estate Debt;
(e)
extensions, renewals and replacements of Liens referred to in Section 7.02(a), (b), (c), (d), and (g), provided, that any such
extension, renewal or replacement Lien shall be limited to the property or assets covered by the Lien being extended, renewed or replaced and
that the Indebtedness secured by any such extension, renewal or replacement lien shall be in an amount not greater than (i) the amount of the
Indebtedness secured by the original Lien extended, renewed or replaced, plus (ii) any closing fees, prepayment premiums and reasonable
closing costs related to such extension, renewal or replacement;
(f)
Liens (including, without limitation, certain rights of set-off and title retention agreements) in favor of a Manufacturer securing
amounts owing in connection with Inventory purchased from such Manufacturer, so long as such Liens do not secure Indebtedness, other than
(i) Indebtedness of the type described in clause (e) of the definition of “Indebtedness” (and which Indebtedness does not
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satisfy the requirements of clause (a), (b), (c), (d), (f), (g) or (h) of such definition) and (ii) Guarantees of Indebtedness described in clause (i)
above;
(g)
Liens on property (other than Inventory, property acquired using purchase-money Indebtedness with respect to that property
provided by Lenders pursuant to this Agreement, or any property included in the Revolving Borrowing Base) related to other Indebtedness
permitted under Section 7.01(g), or (h);
(h)
Liens on property (including real property) other than the Collateral or property included in the Revolving Borrowing Base,
provided which Liens secure Swap Contracts permitted under Section 7.01(j);
(i)
Liens securing Permitted Service Loaner Indebtedness (which Liens extend only to Rental Vehicles financed by such Permitted
Service Loaner Indebtedness and proceeds of such Vehicles);
(j)
Liens securing Permitted FMCC Floorplan Indebtedness permitted by Section 7.01(r);
(k)
Liens for Taxes not past due for more than thirty (30) days or Taxes being contested in good faith and by appropriate
proceedings diligently conducted, and as to which reserves or other appropriate provisions as may be required by GAAP are being maintained;
(l)
carriers’, warehousemen’s, mechanics’, materialmen’s, landlord’s and other like statutory or contractual Liens arising in the
ordinary course of business securing obligations which are not overdue for a period of more than thirty (30) days or which are being contested
in good faith and by appropriate proceedings, diligently conducted, and as to which such reserves or other appropriate provisions as may be
required by GAAP are being maintained;
(m)
pledges or deposits in connection with workers’ compensation, unemployment insurance and other social security legislation;
(n)
deposits to secure the performance of bids, trade contracts, statutory obligations, and other obligations of a like nature incurred
in the ordinary course of business;
(o)
zoning, easements and other restrictions on the use of real property that do not, in the aggregate, materially impair the use of
such property;
(p)
Liens in existence on the date hereof and listed on Schedule 7.02;
(q)
purchase options and rights of first refusal in favor of a Manufacturer arising under a Framework Agreement or a Franchise
Agreement or the documents executed and delivered in connection therewith;
(r)
Liens on real property, fixtures, related real property rights and related contracts, and proceeds of the foregoing (including,
without limitation, insurance proceeds in respect of the foregoing) owned by such Loan Party (in each case, other than property included in the
Revolving Borrowing Base), securing Indebtedness permitted by Section 7.01(s); and
(s)
Liens not otherwise permitted hereby securing permitted Indebtedness of the Company and its Subsidiaries so long as, after
giving effect to such Indebtedness, the aggregate principal amount of Indebtedness secured by such Liens does not exceed $35,000,000 at any
time.
7.03
Consolidations and Mergers. Merge, consolidate with or into, or convey, transfer, lease or otherwise dispose of (whether in
one transaction or in a series of transactions) all or substantially all of its assets (whether now owned or hereafter acquired) to or in favor of any
Person (including, in each case, pursuant to a Division), except:
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(a)
any of its Subsidiaries may merge with the Company, provided that the Company shall be the continuing or surviving Person,
or with any one or more such Subsidiaries, provided that (i) if any such transaction shall be between Subsidiaries, one of which is a wholly-
owned Subsidiary and one of which is not a wholly-owned Subsidiary, the wholly-owned Subsidiary shall be the continuing or surviving
Person, and (ii) in any such transaction between any Subsidiary that is a Subsidiary Guarantor and an entity that is not the Company or a
Subsidiary Guarantor, the surviving entity shall be a Subsidiary Guarantor;
(b)
any Subsidiary of the Company may sell or transfer all or substantially all of its assets (upon voluntary liquidation or
otherwise) to the Company or a wholly-owned Subsidiary; provided, that (i) any such sale or transfer by a Subsidiary Guarantor shall be to the
Company or a Subsidiary Guarantor and (ii) if the buyer or transferee of such assets would be a Restricted Subsidiary (after giving effect to
such sale or transfer), such buyer or transferee shall be a Subsidiary Guarantor;
(c)
any Subsidiary of the Company or the Company may merge or consolidate with another Person (that is not the Company or
any of its Subsidiaries) if (x) the Company or such Subsidiary involved in the merger or the consolidation is the surviving Person and (y)
immediately prior to and after giving effect to such merger or consolidation, there exists no Event of Default; and
(d)
as permitted by Section 7.04(b) and (e).
7.04
Disposition of Assets. Permit any Disposition (whether in one or a series of transactions) of any property or assets (including
Accounts, notes receivable, and/or chattel paper, with or without recourse) or enter into any agreement so to do, except:
(a)
Dispositions of Vehicles and other inventory in the ordinary course of business;
(b)
Dispositions of assets, properties or businesses (including the capital stock of Subsidiaries and Franchises) by the Company or
any of its Subsidiaries; provided that (A) no Event of Default will result from such Disposition, (B) the Company shall be in compliance with
Section 7.11, (C) the Total Revolving Outstandings shall not exceed the lesser of the pro forma Revolving Borrowing Base or the Aggregate
Revolving Commitments, (D) the Total Used Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings shall not exceed the lesser of the pro forma Used Vehicle
Floorplan Borrowing Base or the Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments and (E) the Total New Vehicle Floorplan Outstandings shall
not exceed the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments, in each case, after giving effect to such Disposition.
(c)
Dispositions of equipment and other property which is obsolete, worn out or no longer used in or useful to such Person’s
business, all in the ordinary course of business;
(d)
Dispositions occurring as the result of a casualty event, condemnation or expropriation;
(e)
Dispositions in any year of other property, assets (including capital stock of its Subsidiaries and Affiliates) or businesses of the
Company not otherwise permitted by clauses (a) through (d) of this Section 7.04; provided that the Net Cash Proceeds (excluding income taxes
reasonably estimated to be actually payable within two years of the date of such Disposition as a result of any gain recognized in connection
therewith) realized from such Disposition in any applicable year in excess of ten percent (10%) of the tangible assets of the Company as of the
beginning of such year are either reinvested within one (1) year in useful assets or used to repay the Obligations, or, with the consent of the
Administrative Agent, other senior Indebtedness (without any permanent reduction of any applicable Commitments);
(f)
Dispositions pursuant to Qualified Sale/Leaseback Transactions so long as no Event of Default exists under Section 8.01(b) or
(e);
(g)
Dispositions of chattel paper, Accounts arising from the wholesale of parts and accessories, and retail sales contracts, in each
case in arms-length transactions for fair value in the ordinary course of business;
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(h)
As permitted in Section 7.03; and
(i)
Dispositions of assets (i) by the Company to any Subsidiary Guarantor, (ii) by any Subsidiary to the Company or any
Subsidiary Guarantor, or (iii) by any Subsidiary that is not a Subsidiary Guarantor to another Subsidiary that is not a Subsidiary Guarantor;
provided, however, that if the recipient of such assets would be a Restricted Subsidiary (after giving effect to such Disposition), such recipient
shall be a Subsidiary Guarantor;
provided, that in the case of a Disposition pursuant to clause (b), (d), (e) or (f), (i) if the aggregate expected Disposition Proceeds of
such Disposition are greater than $50,000,000, the Company shall have given notice to the Administrative Agent stating the proposed date of
such Disposition and the expected amount of Disposition Proceeds, and (ii) if the aggregate expected Disposition Proceeds of such Disposition
are greater than $75,000,000, or after giving pro forma effect to such Disposition either the Revolving Borrowing Base or the Used Vehicle
Floorplan Borrowing Base is decreased by more than ten percent (10%), (y) the Company shall have furnished to the Administrative Agent pro
forma historical financial statements as of the end of the most recently completed fiscal year of the Company and most recent interim fiscal
quarter, if applicable, giving effect to such Disposition and all other Dispositions consummated since such fiscal year end, and (z) the Company
and its Subsidiaries shall be in Pro Forma Compliance after giving effect to such Disposition, as evidenced by a Pro Forma Compliance
Certificate, Pro Forma Revolving Borrowing Base Certificate and a Pro Forma Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base Certificate delivered
simultaneously with such pro forma historical financial statements. The Revolving Borrowing Base or Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base
(as applicable) shall not change as a result of such Disposition until such Disposition actually occurs, and the Company and its Subsidiaries
shall promptly notify the Administrative Agent when such Disposition occurs or if the date of such Disposition or amount of such Disposition
Proceeds has changed or is expected to change.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Section 7.04, neither the Company nor any Subsidiary may make any
Disposition (other than, to the extent constituting a Disposition, any Investment in any Designated Escrow Subsidiary permitted under Section
7.05) to any Designated Escrow Subsidiary during the term of this Agreement.
7.05
Investments. Make or permit to exist any Investment in any Person, except for:
(a)
Permitted Acquisitions;
(b)
extensions of credit in the nature of Accounts or notes receivable and/or chattel paper arising from the sale of goods and
services in the ordinary course of business;
(c)
shares of stock, obligations or other securities received in settlement of claims arising in the ordinary course of business;
(d)
Investments in securities maturing within two (2) years and issued or fully guaranteed or insured by the United States of
America or any state or agency thereof;
(e)
Investments in commercial paper maturing within one year from the date of acquisition thereof and having, at such date of
acquisition, a credit rating of at least A-1 from S&P and P-1 from Moody’s;
(f)
Investments in certificates of deposit, banker’s acceptances and time deposits maturing within one year from the date of
acquisition thereof issued or guaranteed by or placed with, and money market deposit accounts issued or offered by, any domestic office of any
commercial bank organized under the Laws of the United States of America or any State thereof that has a combined capital and surplus and
undivided profits of not less than $500,000,000, or any Lender;
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(g)
fully collateralized repurchase agreements with a term of not more than 30 days for securities described in clause (d) above and
entered into with a financial institution satisfying the criteria described in clause (f) above;
(h)
money market funds that (i) comply with the criteria set forth in SEC Rule 2a-7 under the Investment Company Act of 1940,
(ii) are rated or invest solely in the assets described in clauses (e) through (g) above and (iii) have portfolio assets of at least $5,000,000,000;
and
(i)
Investments to the extent the payment for such Investment is made solely with Equity Interests of the Company;
(j)
Investments in seller-financed notes and retail sales contracts in connection with Vehicles; provided that the sum of (i) such
Investments described in this Section 7.05(j) (on a gross basis excluding any reserves), plus (ii) the aggregate face amount of Indebtedness
permitted under Section 7.01(n) shall not exceed $35,000,000 at any time;
(k)
Investments in (including loans to) the Company or wholly-owned Subsidiaries that are Subsidiary Guarantors;
(l)
Investments in (including loans to) Subsidiaries that are not Subsidiary Guarantors (including any equity Investments in any
Captive Insurance Company to meet the insurance capital requirements of such Captive Insurance Company to the extent required by
applicable law or regulation) in an aggregate amount of not more than $50,000,000 during the term of this Agreement;
(m)
Investments in an aggregate amount which, together with the aggregate amount of Restricted Payments made by the Company
pursuant to Section 7.10(a)(i), shall not exceed the 7.10(a)(i) RP Basket Limit at the time of each such Investment, subject to satisfaction of the
conditions set forth in the definition of 7.10(a)(i) RP Basket Limit;
(n)
without counting against the 7.10(a)(i) RP Basket Limit set forth in Section 7.10(a)(i) below, the Company may make other
Investments so long as the Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio is no greater than 3.00 to 1.00 (determined on a pro forma basis after giving
effect to such Investment and any other Investment made on such date or at any time after the Applicable Four-Quarter Period);
(o)
Investments in fixed or floating rate demand notes issued by original equipment manufacturers (or their captive finance
companies), in each case with a credit rating of at least A- from S&P and A3 from Moody’s; and
(p)
other Investments in an aggregate outstanding amount of not more than $75,000,000 during the term of this Agreement.
(q)
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Section 7.05, neither the Company nor any Subsidiary may make
any Investment in any Designated Escrow Subsidiary during the term of this Agreement other than Investments otherwise permitted by
this Section 7.05 that do not exceed an aggregate amount necessary to pay (i) the administrative expenses of any Designated Escrow
Subsidiary in the ordinary course of business and (ii) interest and premiums in respect of the Indebtedness incurred by such Designated
Escrow Subsidiary.
7.06
Transactions with Affiliates. Enter into any transaction of any kind with any Affiliate of the Company, whether or not in the
ordinary course of business, other than on fair and reasonable terms substantially as favorable to the Company or such Subsidiary as would be
obtainable by the Company or such Subsidiary at the time in a comparable arm’s length transaction with a Person other than an Affiliate;
provided that the foregoing restriction shall not apply to any transaction between or among the Company or any Subsidiary Guarantor and any
other Subsidiary Guarantor or Subsidiary Guarantors.
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7.07
Other Agreements. Enter into any agreement containing any provision which would be violated or breached by the
Company’s or such Subsidiary’s performance of its Obligations hereunder or under any Loan Document delivered or to be delivered by the
Loan Parties hereunder or in connection herewith, except for any such agreement the violation or breach of which would not reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
7.08
Fiscal Year; Accounting. (a) Change its fiscal year or (b) change its method of accounting (other than, in the case of clause
(b), immaterial changes and methods and changes authorized or required by GAAP or permitted by Section 1.04(b)).
7.09
Pension Plans. Permit any condition to exist in connection with any Pension Plan which might constitute grounds for the
PBGC to institute proceedings to have such Pension Plan terminated or a trustee appointed to administer such Pension Plan, or engage in, or
permit to exist or occur any other condition, event or transaction with respect to any Pension Plan which could be expected to have Material
Adverse Effect.
7.10
Restricted Payments and Distributions.
(a)
Restricted Payments. Declare or make any Restricted Payment, except that the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company
may pay dividends to the Company (directly or indirectly) or to another Subsidiary Guarantor that is a wholly-owned Subsidiary of the
Company at any time, and may also make the following Restricted Payments, provided that, (x) immediately after giving effect to the
declaration of any dividend, and the payment of any Restricted Payment, there exists no Default under Section 8.01(a) or (f) or Section 8.03(a)
or (g) and no Event of Default, and (y) after giving pro forma effect to the declaration of any dividend and the payment of any Restricted
Payment made pursuant to clause (i), (ii), (iii), (iv) or (vi) below, the Company is in Pro Forma Compliance with the covenants contained in
Section 7.11:
(i)
the Company may declare and pay cash dividends on its capital stock and may purchase shares of its capital stock;
provided that, at the time of any such cash dividend payment or share purchase and after giving effect to such cash dividend payment or
share purchase, the sum of (A) the aggregate amount payable or paid in respect of all cash dividends by the Company or shares
purchased by the Company (other than shares purchased pursuant to clause (ii) below) on or after June 30, 2019 plus (B) the aggregate
amount of Investments made by the Company on or after June 30, 2019 pursuant to Section 7.05(m), shall not exceed the sum of (x)
$642,000,000 plus (or minus if negative) (y) one-half (1/2) of the aggregate Consolidated Net Income of the Company for the period
(taken as one accounting period) beginning on July 1, 2019 up to the end of the Company’s most recent fiscal quarter for which internal
financial statements have been delivered to the Administrative Agent plus (z) 100% of the aggregate Net Cash Proceeds received by the
Company after July 1, 2019 as a contribution to its common equity capital or from the issue or sale of Equity Interests of the Company
or from the issue or sale of convertible or exchangeable preferred stock or convertible or exchangeable debt securities of the Company
that have been converted into or exchanged for such Equity Interests (other than Equity Interests, preferred stock or debt securities sold
to a Subsidiary of the Company and other than any contribution by a Subsidiary) (the product described above at any time being
referred to herein as the “7.10(a)(i) RP Basket Limit”);
(ii)
without counting against the 7.10(a)(i) RP Basket Limit set forth in Section 7.10(a)(i) above or restricting the
Restricted Payments permitted to be made by Section 7.10(a)(iii), the Company and its Subsidiaries may repurchase, redeem or
otherwise acquire or retire for value any Equity Interests of the Company or any such Subsidiaries in an aggregate amount not to
exceed $35,000,000 in any fiscal year;
(iii)
without counting against the 7.10(a)(i) RP Basket Limit set forth in Section 7.10(a)(i) above or restricting the
Restricted Payments permitted to be made by Section 7.10(a)(ii), the Company may make other Restricted Payments so long as the
Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries on a consolidated basis is no greater than 3.0 to 1
(determined on a pro forma basis for the most recently ended four full fiscal
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quarters for which internal financial statements have been delivered to the Administrative Agent prior to such Restricted Payment);
(iv)
the Company may declare and pay stock dividends directly or indirectly;
(v)
the Company may repurchase Equity Interests deemed to occur upon the exercise of stock options if those Equity
Interests represent all or a portion of the exercise price of those options
(vi)
the Company may repurchase fractional shares arising out of stock dividends, splits or combinations or business
combinations; and
(vii)
the Company may pay any dividend or distribution on, or redemption of, Equity Interests pursuant to clause (i) within
60 days after the date of declaration or notice thereof, if at the date of declaration or the giving of notice, the payment would have
complied with the provisions of this Agreement.
(b)
Distributions. Distribute any funds from any depository account of the Company or a Vehicle Borrower to any Vehicle
Borrower with respect to which any Event of Default under Section 8.01(e) exists, except to the extent necessary to cure such Event of Default.
(c)
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Section 7.10, neither the Company nor any Subsidiary may make
any dividend or other Restricted Payment to any Designated Escrow Subsidiary during the term of this Agreement.
7.11
Financial Covenants.
(a)
Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio. Permit the Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio, as of the end of any fiscal
quarter, to be less than 1.20 to 1.00.
(b)
Consolidated Total Lease Adjusted Leverage Ratio. Permit the Consolidated Total Lease Adjusted Leverage Ratio, as of the
end of any fiscal quarter, to be more than 5.75 to 1.00.
7.12
Change in Nature of Business. Engage in any material line of business substantially different from those lines of business
conducted by the Company and its Subsidiaries on the date hereof or any business substantially related or incidental thereto.
7.13
Use of Proceeds. Use the proceeds of any Credit Extension, whether directly or indirectly, and whether immediately,
incidentally or ultimately, to purchase or carry margin stock (within the meaning of Regulation U of the FRB) or to extend credit to others for
the purpose of purchasing or carrying margin stock or to refund indebtedness originally incurred for such purpose.
7.14
Burdensome Agreements. Enter into any Contractual Obligation (other than this Agreement or any other Loan Document)
that
(a)
limits the ability (i) of any Subsidiary (other than any Designated Escrow Subsidiary) to pay dividends to any Loan Party or to
otherwise transfer property to any Loan Party, (ii) of any Subsidiary to Guarantee the Obligations or (iii) of the Company or any Subsidiary to
create, incur, assume or suffer to exist Liens on property of such Person in favor of the Administrative Agent for the benefit of the Secured
Parties; provided, however, that (W) clause (i) shall not prohibit any Subsidiary Guarantor from complying with minimum capitalization,
working capital, net worth or financial ratios imposed by or pursuant to any Franchise Agreement or Framework Agreement, (X) clauses (i) and
(iii) shall not prohibit any negative pledge or restriction on transfer incurred or provided in favor of any holder of secured Indebtedness
permitted hereunder (including Permitted Floorplan Indebtedness and Permitted Real Estate Debt) solely to the extent any such negative pledge
or restriction on transfer relates to the property financed by or securing such Indebtedness, (Y) clauses (i) and (iii) shall not prohibit customary
restrictions on assignments, subletting or other transfers contained in the documents governing Permitted
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Sale/Leaseback Transactions or in other leases, licenses and similar agreements entered into in the ordinary course of business (provided that
such restrictions are limited to the property subject to such Qualified Sale/Leaseback Transaction, lease, license or other agreement) and (Z)
clause (i), (ii) and (iii) shall not prohibit provisions contained in the Indentures on the date hereof or provisions contained in any indenture
governing unsecured senior notes issued by the Company which notes are permitted hereunder, provided that such provisions are no more
restrictive on the Borrower or any Subsidiary than those contained in the Indentures on the date hereof (as determined by the Company in good
faith); or
(b)
requires the grant of a Lien to secure an obligation of such Person if a Lien is granted to secure the Obligations.
7.15
[Reserved].
7.16
Prepayments, etc. of Certain Indebtedness. Prepay, redeem, purchase, defease, settle in cash or otherwise satisfy prior to the
scheduled maturity thereof in any manner any Indebtedness, other than Obligations under the Loan Documents and prepayments of
Indebtedness made in order to effect a refinancing of such Indebtedness by other Indebtedness that is permitted under Section 7.01 of this
Agreement (each such prepayment, redemption, purchase, defeasement, settlement or satisfaction referred to as an “Indebtedness
Prepayment”), except that the Company may make Indebtedness Prepayments so long as (i) (A) both immediately prior to any such
Indebtedness Prepayment and after giving effect to such Indebtedness Prepayment no Default or Event of Default shall exist and (B) the
aggregate amount of such Indebtedness Prepayments does not exceed $75,000,000 during any fiscal year or (ii) both immediately prior to any
such Indebtedness Prepayment and after giving effect to such Indebtedness Prepayment: (X) no Default or Event of Default shall exist, (Y) the
Company and its Subsidiaries shall be in Pro Forma Compliance, and (Z) the Pro Forma Prepayment Test Amount is equal to or greater than
$150,000,000 on a pro forma basis for the fiscal quarter during which such Indebtedness Prepayment is made and each of the next three fiscal
quarters (as evidenced, in the case of clauses (Y) and (Z), by a Pro Forma Compliance Certificate and a Prepayment Test Amount Certificate
submitted not less than 5 Business Days and not more than 90 days prior to the date of any such Indebtedness Prepayment), in which case, such
Indebtedness Prepayments pursuant to this clause (ii) may be made in an amount of up to the difference (if a positive number) between such
Prepayment Test Amount (as measured prior to giving effect to such Indebtedness Prepayment) and $150,000,000.
7.17
Excluded Collateral. Grant to any Person any Lien on any Excluded Property unless the Administrative Agent (for the benefit
of the Secured Parties) has a Lien on such property, other than (i) Liens on assets of a Franchise (or stock of the Subsidiary that owns such
Franchise) granted to the respective franchisor, (ii) Liens granted on Excluded Property to a holder of a Permitted Lien on such Excluded
Property where a grant of a security interest to the Administrative Agent in such Excluded Property would violate or invalidate such asset or
agreement governing such asset or create a right of termination in favor of the holder of such Permitted Lien on such Excluded Property, (iii)
Liens on Excluded Property constituting real property, fixtures and related real property rights, and (iv) Excluded Property consisting of
contracts related to real property, fixtures or related real property rights, or proceeds of real property, fixtures, related real property rights or
related contracts (including, without limitation, insurance proceeds in respect of the foregoing), that in each case of this clause (iv) secures
Permitted Real Estate Debt to the extent that a grant of a security interest thereon to the Administrative Agent would conflict with or result in a
violation of the terms of such Permitted Real Estate Debt.
7.18
Perfection of Deposit Accounts. Without the prior written consent of the Administrative Agent, permit any Person (other than
the Administrative Agent (on behalf of the Secured Parties) to obtain any deposit account control agreement (or otherwise perfect any Lien)
any deposit account of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries (other than any deposit account of any Designated Escrow Subsidiary containing
only proceeds of the Indebtedness such Designated Escrow Subsidiary was formed to incur), other than a deposit account control agreement
entered into with the agent, trustee or other secured party in respect of any Indebtedness that is permitted under this Agreement to be secured by
a Lien on all or any portion of the Collateral constituting deposit accounts, in each case to the extent that the Administrative Agent is also a
party thereto.
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7.19
Acquisitions. Consummate any Acquisition, unless (i) the Person to be (or whose assets are to be) acquired does not oppose
such Acquisition and the material line or lines of business of the Person to be acquired are substantially the same as one or more line or lines of
business conducted by the Company and its Subsidiaries, or substantially related or incidental thereto, (ii) no Default shall have occurred and
be continuing either immediately prior to or immediately after giving effect to such Acquisition, (iii) [intentionally omitted]; (iv) if the
aggregate Cost of Acquisition of such Acquisition is greater than $50,000,000, the Company shall have given thirty (30) days’ notice to the
Administrative Agent stating the proposed date of such Acquisition and the expected Cost of Acquisition, (v) if the aggregate Cost of
Acquisition of such Acquisition is greater than $115,000,000, (y) the Company shall have furnished to the Administrative Agent pro forma
historical financial statements as of the end of the most recently completed fiscal year of the Company and most recent interim fiscal quarter, if
applicable, giving effect to such Acquisition and all other Acquisitions consummated since such fiscal year end, and (z) the Company and its
Subsidiaries shall be in Pro Forma Compliance after giving effect to such Acquisition, as evidenced by a Pro Forma Compliance Certificate,
Pro Forma Revolving Borrowing Base Certificate and Pro Forma Used Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base Certificate delivered simultaneously
with such pro forma historical financial statements, and (vi) the Person acquired shall be a wholly-owned Subsidiary, or be merged into the
Company or a wholly-owned Subsidiary, immediately upon consummation of the Acquisition (or if assets are being acquired, the acquiror shall
be the Company or a wholly-owned Subsidiary). Nothing in this Section 6.19 shall alter any obligation of the Company or any applicable
Subsidiary, to comply with the provisions of Section 6.14, subject to any applicable grace period set forth in Section 6.14. Notwithstanding the
delivery of any evidence of Pro Forma Compliance (including any Pro Forma Revolving Borrowing Base Certificate or Pro Forma Used
Vehicle Floorplan Borrowing Base Certificate), the Revolving Borrowing Base or Used Vehicle Borrowing Base (as applicable) shall not
change as a result of such Acquisition until such Acquisition actually occurs, and the Company and its Subsidiaries shall promptly notify the
Administrative Agent when such Acquisition occurs or if the date of such Acquisition or the amount of such Cost of Acquisition has changed
or is expected to change.
7.20
Amendments of Organizational Documents. Amend its Organizational Documents in a manner that would reasonably be
expect to (a) impair the enforceability of any Loan Document in any material respect or the perfection or priority of any Lien created
thereunder, (b) impair in any material respect its ability to perform its obligations under the Loan Documents or (c) otherwise have a Material
Adverse Effect.
7.21
Sanctions. Directly or indirectly, use the proceeds of any Credit Extension, or lend, contribute or otherwise make available
such proceeds to any Subsidiary, joint venture partner or other Person, to fund any activities of or business with any Person that, at the time of
such funding, is the subject of Sanctions, or in any other manner that will result in a violation by any Person (including any Person participating
in the transaction, whether as Lender, Arranger, Administrative Agent, L/C Issuer, or otherwise) of Sanctions.
7.22
Anti-Corruption Laws. Directly or indirectly use the proceeds of any Credit Extension for any purpose which would breach
the United States Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, the UK Bribery Act 2010, and other similar anti-corruption legislation in other
jurisdictions.
ARTICLE VIII.
EVENTS OF DEFAULT AND REMEDIES
8.01
Revolving/Used Vehicle Events of Default. Any of the following shall constitute a Revolving/Used Vehicle Event of Default
(each a “Revolving/Used Vehicle Event of Default”):
(a)
Non-Payment. Any Borrower or any other Loan Party fails to pay (i) when and as required to be paid herein, any amount of
principal of any Used Vehicle Floorplan Loan or Revolving Loan or any L/C Obligation (except for any payment necessary to cure an Out of
Balance condition (as to which reference is made to clause (m) below)), or (ii) within five (5) days after the same becomes due, any interest on
any Used Vehicle Floorplan Loan or Revolving Loan or any L/C Obligation, or any fee due hereunder with respect to the Used Vehicle
Floorplan Facility or the Revolving Credit Facility, or (iii) within five (5) days after the same becomes due, any other amount payable
hereunder or under any other
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Loan Document with respect to either the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility or the Revolving Credit Facility; or
(b)
Specific Covenants. The Company or any other Borrower fails to perform or observe any term, covenant or agreement
contained in any of Section 6.01, 6.02(a), (b), (c) or (d), 6.03, 6.05 (as it relates to maintenance of existence), 6.10, 6.11, 6.12, 6.14 or Article
VII; or
(c)
Other Defaults. Any Loan Party fails to perform or observe any other covenant or agreement (not specified in subsection (a) or
(b) above) contained in any Loan Document on its part to be performed or observed and such failure continues for thirty (30) days after the
giving of written notice to such Loan Party specifying the alleged default; or
(d)
Representations and Warranties. Any representation, warranty, certification or statement of fact made or deemed made by or on
behalf of the Company or any other Loan Party herein, in any other Loan Document, or in any document delivered in connection herewith or
therewith shall be incorrect or misleading in any material respect when made or deemed made; or
(e)
Cross-Default. (i) The Company or any Subsidiary (other than a Specified Insurance Subsidiary or any Designated Escrow
Subsidiary) (A) fails to make any payment when due (whether by scheduled maturity, required prepayment, acceleration, demand, or otherwise)
in respect of any Indebtedness or Guarantee (other than Indebtedness hereunder and Indebtedness under Swap Contracts) having an aggregate
principal amount (including undrawn committed or available amounts and including amounts owing to all creditors under any combined or
syndicated credit arrangement) of more than the Threshold Amount, or (B) fails to observe or perform any other agreement or condition
relating to any such Indebtedness or Guarantee or contained in any instrument or agreement evidencing, securing or relating thereto, or any
other event occurs, the effect of which default or other event is to cause, or to permit the holder or holders of such Indebtedness or the
beneficiary or beneficiaries of such Guarantee (or a trustee or agent on behalf of such holder or holders or beneficiary or beneficiaries) to cause,
with the giving of notice if required, such Indebtedness to be demanded or to become due or to be repurchased, prepaid, defeased or redeemed
(automatically or otherwise), or an offer to repurchase, prepay, defease or redeem such Indebtedness to be made, prior to its stated maturity, or
such Guarantee to become payable or cash collateral in respect thereof to be demanded; or (ii) there occurs under any Swap Contract an Early
Termination Date (as defined in such Swap Contract) resulting from (A) any event of default under such Swap Contract as to which the
Company or any Subsidiary is the Defaulting Party (as defined in such Swap Contract) or (B) any Termination Event (as so defined) under such
Swap Contract as to which the Company or any Subsidiary (other than a Specified Insurance Subsidiary) is an Affected Party (as so defined)
and, in either event, the Swap Termination Value owed by the Company or such Subsidiary as a result thereof is greater than the Threshold
Amount; or
(f)
Insolvency Proceedings, Etc. Any Loan Party or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries institutes or consents to the institution of any
proceeding under any Debtor Relief Law, or makes an assignment for the benefit of creditors; or applies for or consents to the appointment of
any receiver, trustee, custodian, conservator, liquidator, rehabilitator or similar officer for it or for all or any material part of its property; or any
receiver, trustee, custodian, conservator, liquidator, rehabilitator or similar officer is appointed without the application or consent of such Person
and the appointment continues undischarged or unstayed for 60 calendar days; or any proceeding under any Debtor Relief Law relating to any
such Person or to all or any material part of its property is instituted without the consent of such Person and continues undismissed or unstayed
for 60 calendar days, or an order for relief is entered in any such proceeding; or
(g)
Inability to Pay Debts; Attachment. (i) The Company or any Subsidiary (other than a Specified Insurance Subsidiary or a
Designated Escrow Subsidiary) becomes unable or admits in writing its inability or fails generally to pay its debts as they become due, or (ii)
any writ or warrant of attachment or execution or similar process is issued or levied against all or any material part of the property of any such
Person and is not released, vacated or fully bonded within thirty (30) days after its issue or levy; or
(h)
Judgments. There shall be entered against the Company or any of its Subsidiaries (other than the Specified Insurance
Subsidiaries or a Designated Escrow Subsidiary) (i) one or more judgments
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or decrees in excess of the Threshold Amount in the aggregate at any one time outstanding for the Company and all its Subsidiaries (other than
a Specified Insurance Subsidiaries) or (ii) any one or more non-monetary final judgments that have, or could reasonably be expected to have,
individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect and, in either case, (A) enforcement proceedings are commenced by any creditor
upon such judgment or order, or (B) there is a period of 60 consecutive days during which such judgment is not satisfied and a stay of
enforcement of such judgment, by reason of a pending appeal or otherwise, is not in effect, excluding (in the case of clause (i)) those judgments
or decrees for which and to the extent that the Company or any such Subsidiary is insured and with respect to which the insurer has not
contested or denied responsibility in writing (subject to usual deductibles); or
(i)
ERISA. (i) An ERISA Event occurs with respect to a Pension Plan, Multiemployer Plan or Multiple Employer Plan which has
resulted or could reasonably be expected to result in liability of the Company under Title IV of ERISA to the Pension Plan, Multiemployer
Plan, Multiple Employer Plan or the PBGC in an aggregate amount in excess of the Threshold Amount, or (ii) the Company or any ERISA
Affiliate fails to pay when due, after the expiration of any applicable grace period, any installment payment with respect to its withdrawal
liability under Section 4201 of ERISA under a Multiemployer Plan in an aggregate amount in excess of the Threshold Amount; or
(j)
Invalidity of Loan Documents. (i) Any Loan Document, at any time after its execution and delivery and for any reason other
than as expressly permitted hereunder or thereunder or satisfaction in full of all the Obligations, ceases to be in full force and effect; or (ii) any
Security Instrument shall for any reason (other than pursuant to the terms thereof or as a result of the failure of the Administrative Agent or the
Lenders to file UCC financing statements or UCC continuation statements) cease to create a valid security interest in the Collateral purported to
be covered thereby or such security interest shall for any reason cease to be a perfected security interest with the priority provided therefor in
such Security Instrument subject only to those Liens permitted by Section 7.02; or
(k)
Change of Control. There occurs any Change of Control; or
(l)
Franchise Agreements and Framework Agreements. (i) Any Franchise Agreement or Framework Agreement is terminated or
suspended or expires and a replacement for such Franchise Agreement or Framework Agreement is not entered into within 30 days of such
termination, suspension or expiration, (ii) there occurs a default by any Person in the performance or observance of any term of any Franchise
Agreement or Framework Agreement which is not cured within any applicable cure period therein, or (iii) there occurs any change in any
Franchise Agreement or Framework Agreement, except in each case referred to in clauses (i), (ii) and (iii) to the extent such termination,
suspension, expiration, default or change (either individually or in the aggregate) could not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse
Effect; provided that, in the event a Franchise Agreement expires in accordance with its terms, if and for so long as the respective dealership
Subsidiary and manufacturer or distributor are negotiating in good faith to renew such Franchise Agreement, and the respective manufacturer or
distributor has not taken (and is not reasonably expected to take) any action to terminate such Franchise Agreement, such expiration shall not
by itself be considered a Revolving/Used Vehicle Event of Default under this Section 8.01(l); or
(m)
Out of Balance. An audit performed by the Administrative Agent or New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender pursuant to the
provisions of Section 6.10 reveals that any Vehicle of any Borrower securing the Obligations has been Out of Balance, and such Out of Balance
condition either (i) (individually or in the aggregate) has had or would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect or (ii)
continues for thirty (30) days following notice from the Administrative Agent to the Company thereof; or
(n)
New Vehicle Event of Default. A New Vehicle Event of Default shall occur and be continuing.
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8.02
Remedies Upon Revolving/Used Vehicle Event of Default.
(a)
If any Revolving/Used Vehicle Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the Administrative Agent shall, at the request of, or
may, with the consent of, the Required Lenders, take any or all of the following actions:
(i)
declare the commitment of each Revolving Lender to make Revolving Loans and any obligation of any L/C Issuer to
make L/C Credit Extensions to be terminated, whereupon such commitments and obligation shall be terminated;
(ii)
declare the commitment of each Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender to make Used Vehicle Floorplan Loans to be
terminated, whereupon such commitments and obligation shall be terminated;
(iii)
declare the unpaid principal amount of all outstanding Revolving Loans, all interest accrued and unpaid thereon, and
all other amounts owing or payable hereunder or under any other Loan Document with respect to the Revolving Credit Facility to be
immediately due and payable, without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby expressly
waived by the Company;
(iv)
declare the unpaid principal amount of all outstanding Used Vehicle Floorplan Loans, all interest accrued and unpaid
thereon, and all other amounts owing or payable hereunder or under any other Loan Document with respect to the Used Vehicle
Floorplan Facility to be immediately due and payable, without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which
are hereby expressly waived by the Company;
(v)
require that the Company Cash Collateralize the L/C Obligations (in an amount equal to the then Outstanding Amount
thereof);
(vi)
exercise on behalf of itself, the Revolving Lenders and the L/C Issuers all rights and remedies available to it, the
Revolving Lenders and the L/C Issuers under the Loan Documents; or
(vii)
exercise on behalf of itself and the Used Vehicle Floorplan Lenders all rights and remedies available to it and the Used
Vehicle Floorplan Lenders under the Loan Documents;
provided, however, that upon the occurrence of an actual or deemed entry of an order for relief with respect to any Borrower under the
Bankruptcy Code of the United States, the obligation of each Revolving Lender and each Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender to make Revolving
Loans and Used Vehicle Floorplan Loans, as applicable, and any obligation of each L/C Issuer to make L/C Credit Extensions shall
automatically terminate and the unpaid principal amount of all outstanding Revolving Loans and Used Vehicle Floorplan Loans and all interest
and other amounts as aforesaid shall automatically become due and payable, and the obligation of the Company to Cash Collateralize the L/C
Obligations as aforesaid shall automatically become effective, in each case without further act of the Administrative Agent, any Revolving
Lender or any Used Vehicle Floorplan Lender.
(b)
Notwithstanding the above, with respect to a Revolving/Used Vehicle Event of Default described in Section 8.01(n), if such is
caused solely by the occurrence of a single Event of Default occurring under Section 8.03(a), (g) or (h) and affects only one New Vehicle
Borrower and no other Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Administrative Agent shall not be entitled to accelerate the
Revolving Credit Facility or the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility for a period of thirty (30) days from the date of such Revolving/Used Vehicle
Event of Default.
(c)
In addition to the foregoing, if any Revolving/Used Vehicle Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the Administrative
Agent shall, at the request of, or may, with the consent of, the Required Lenders take any or all of the following actions:
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(i)
foreclose upon, take possession of, or otherwise exercise any remedies available to it under any Security Instrument
with respect to, any of the Collateral, or
(ii)
take any action to perfect or preserve the rights of the Administrative Agent with respect to any Collateral, including
filing any appropriate claim or document with respect to any Collateral in any proceeding under any Debtor Relief Law.
8.03
New Vehicle Events of Default. Any of the following shall constitute a New Vehicle Event of Default in respect of any one or
more New Vehicle Borrowers (each, a “New Vehicle Event of Default”):
(a)
Non-Payment. (i) Any Borrower or any other Loan Party fails to pay (A) when and as required to be paid herein, any amount
of principal of any New Vehicle Floorplan Loan or any New Vehicle Floorplan Overdraft (except for any payment necessary to cure an Out of
Balance condition (as to which reference is made to clause (ii) below)), or (B) within five (5) days after the same becomes due, any interest on
any New Vehicle Floorplan Loan, or any fee due hereunder with respect to the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility, or (C) within five days after the
same becomes due, any other amount payable hereunder or under any other Loan Document with respect to the New Vehicle Floorplan Facility,
or (ii) the Company shall fail to cure any Out of Balance condition, which condition shall remain unremedied for a period of four (4) Business
Days following notice thereof by the Administrative Agent or New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender to the Company; or
(b)
Specific Covenants. The Company fails to perform or observe any term, covenant or agreement contained in Section 7.11.
(c)
Other Defaults. Any Loan Party fails to perform or observe any other covenant or agreement (not specified in subsection (a) or
(b) above) contained in any Loan Document on its part to be performed or observed and such failure continues for thirty (30) days after the
giving of written notice to such Loan Party specifying the alleged default; or
(d)
Representations and Warranties. Any representation, warranty, certification or statement of fact made or deemed made by or on
behalf of the Company or any other Loan Party herein, in any other Loan Document, or in any document delivered in connection herewith or
therewith shall be incorrect or misleading in any material respect when made or deemed made; or
(e)
Revolving/Used Vehicle Event of Default. (i) A Revolving/Used Vehicle Event of Default which has not been cured or waived
within thirty (30) days of the occurrence of such Revolving/Used Vehicle Event of Default, (ii) repayment of amounts outstanding under the
Revolving Credit Facility or the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility shall be accelerated, or (iii) the Company shall fail to pay any principal,
interest or fees due under the Revolving Credit Facility or the Used Vehicle Floorplan Facility within thirty (30) days of the due date; or
(f)
Cross-Default. (i) The Company or any New Vehicle Borrower (A) fails to make any payment when due (whether by scheduled
maturity, required prepayment, acceleration, demand, or otherwise) in respect of any Indebtedness or Guarantee (other than Indebtedness
hereunder and Indebtedness under Swap Contracts) having an aggregate principal amount (including undrawn committed or available amounts
and including amounts owing to all creditors under any combined or syndicated credit arrangement) of more than the Threshold Amount, or (B)
fails to observe or perform any other agreement or condition relating to any such Indebtedness or Guarantee or contained in any instrument or
agreement evidencing, securing or relating thereto, or any other event occurs, the effect of which default or other event is to cause, or to permit
the holder or holders of such Indebtedness or the beneficiary or beneficiaries of such Guarantee (or a trustee or agent on behalf of such holder
or holders or beneficiary or beneficiaries) to cause, with the giving of notice if required, such Indebtedness to be demanded or to become due or
to be repurchased, prepaid, defeased or redeemed (automatically or otherwise), or an offer to repurchase, prepay, defease or redeem such
Indebtedness to be made, prior to its stated maturity, or such Guarantee to become payable or cash collateral in respect thereof to be demanded;
or (ii) there occurs under any Swap Contract an Early Termination Date (as defined in such Swap Contract) resulting from (A) any event of
default under such Swap Contract as to which the
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Company or any New Vehicle Borrower is the Defaulting Party (as defined in such Swap Contract) or (B) any Termination Event (as so
defined) under such Swap Contract as to which the Company or any New Vehicle Borrower is an Affected Party (as so defined) and, in either
event, the Swap Termination Value owed by the Company or such New Vehicle Borrower as a result thereof is greater than the Threshold
Amount; or
(g)
Insolvency Proceedings, Etc.
(i)
the Company or any New Vehicle Borrower shall (A) voluntarily commence any proceeding or file any petition
seeking relief under Title 11 of the United States Code or any other federal, state or foreign bankruptcy, insolvency, liquidation or
similar law, (B) consent to the institution of, or fail to contravene in a timely and appropriate manner to any such proceeding or the
filing of any such petition, (C) apply for or consent to the appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian, sequestrator or similar official
for such Person or for a substantial part of such Person’s property or assets, (D) file an answer admitting the material allegations of a
petition filed against it in any such proceeding, (E) make a general assignment for the benefit of creditors, or (F) become unable, admit
in writing its inability or fail generally to pay its debts as they become due; or
(ii)
an involuntary proceeding shall be commenced or an involuntary petition shall be filed in a court of competent
jurisdiction seeking (a) relief in respect of the Company or any New Vehicle Borrower, or of a substantial part of the property or assets
of any such Person, under Title 11 of the United States Code or any other federal, state or foreign bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership
or similar law, (B) the appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian, sequestrator or similar official for any such Person or for a
substantial part of the property of any such Person or (C) the winding-up or liquidation of any such Person; and such proceeding or
petition shall continue undismissed for sixty (60) days or an order or decree approving or ordering any of the foregoing shall continue
unstayed and in effect for sixty (60) days; or
(h)
Inability to Pay Debts; Attachment. (i) The Company or any New Vehicle Borrower becomes unable or admits in writing its
inability or fails generally to pay its debts as they become due, or (ii) any writ or warrant of attachment or execution or similar process is issued
or levied against all or any material part of the property of any such Person and is not released, vacated or fully bonded within thirty (30) days
after its issue or levy; or
(i)
Judgments. There shall be entered against the Company or any of New Vehicle Borrower (i) one or more judgments or decrees
in excess of the Threshold Amount in the aggregate at any one time outstanding for the Company and all its Subsidiaries or (ii) any one or more
non-monetary final judgments that have, or could reasonably be expected to have, individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect
and, in either case, (A) enforcement proceedings are commenced by any creditor upon such judgment or order, or (B) there is a period of 60
consecutive days during which a stay of enforcement of such judgment, by reason of a pending appeal or otherwise, is not in effect, excluding
(in the case of clause (i)) those judgments or decrees for which, and to the extent that, the Company or any such Subsidiary is insured and with
respect to which the insurer has not contested or denied in writing (subject to usual deductibles); or
(j)
Franchise Agreements and Framework Agreement. With respect to the Company or any New Vehicle Borrower, (i) any
Franchise Agreement or Framework Agreement of the Company or such New Vehicle Borrower is terminated or suspended or expires and a
replacement for such Franchise Agreement or Framework Agreement is not entered into within thirty (30) days of such termination, suspension
or expiration; or (ii) there occurs a default by any Person in the performance or observance of any term of any Franchise Agreement or
Framework Agreement which is not cured within any applicable cure period therein, except in each case referred to in clauses (i) and (ii) to the
extent such termination, suspension, expiration, or default (either individually or in the aggregate) could not reasonably be expected to have a
Material Adverse Effect; provided that, in the event a Franchise Agreement expires in accordance with its terms, if and for so long as the
respective dealership Subsidiary and manufacturer or distributor are negotiating in good faith to renew such Franchise Agreement, and the
respective manufacturer or distributor has not taken (and is not reasonably expected to take) any action to terminate
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such Franchise Agreement, such expiration shall not by itself be considered a New Vehicle Event of Default under this Section 8.03(j); or
(k)
Invalidity of Loan Documents and Collateral. (i) Any Loan Document with respect to the Company or any New Vehicle
Borrower, at any time after its execution and delivery and for any reason other than as expressly permitted hereunder or thereunder or
satisfaction in full of all the Obligations, ceases to be in full force and effect; or (ii) any Security Instrument shall for any reason (other than
pursuant to the terms thereof) cease to create a valid security interest in the Collateral purported to be covered thereby or such security interest
shall for any reason cease to be a perfected and first priority security interest subject only to those Liens permitted by Section 7.02.
8.04
Remedies Upon New Vehicle Event of Default.
(a)
Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of a New Vehicle Event of Default under Section 8.03(a), (b), (c), (d), (f), (g),
(h), (i), (j) or (k) with respect to the Company or any New Vehicle Borrower, the Administrative Agent may, and at the direction of the
Required Lenders, shall: (i) (A) make no further New Vehicle Floorplan Loans to such New Vehicle Borrower or (in the case of any New
Vehicle Event of Default under Section 8.03(g) or (h) with respect to the Company) any New Vehicle Borrower during the continuance of such
New Vehicle Event of Default and (B) the Administrative Agent and the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, upon three (3) days prior
notice to the Company before the first debit, may initiate automatic debits from all such accounts of the Company or such New Vehicle
Borrower in order to pay sums due under any New Vehicle Floorplan Loans of the Company or such New Vehicle Borrower. Notwithstanding
the foregoing, the Lenders shall continue to make New Vehicle Floorplan Loans available to the Company and all New Vehicle Borrowers with
respect to which no New Vehicle Event of Default has occurred unless otherwise provided in Section 8.04(c) below.
(b)
Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of a New Vehicle Event of Default under Section 8.03(e) above, the
Applicable Rate for all New Vehicle Floorplan Loans made to all New Vehicle Borrowers during the thirty (30) day period referred to therein
shall increase by two percent (2%), such increase to occur (i) automatically if such New Vehicle Event of Default is the result of a failure on the
part of the Borrowers to pay the principal amount of any Revolving Loan or Used Vehicle Floorplan Loan when due, or (ii) upon the request of
the Required Lenders in the case of any other such New Vehicle Event of Default.
(c)
Immediately upon the occurrence of a New Vehicle Event of Default under Section 8.03(e) or (f), or thirty (30) days after the
occurrence of any New Vehicle Event of Default under Section 8.03(a), (b), (c), (d), (f), (g), (h), (i), (j) or (k) that is continuing, or immediately
upon the occurrence of a second, concurrent New Vehicle Event of Default under Section 8.03(a), (b), (c), (d), (f), (g), (h), (i), (j) or (k) (unless
otherwise permitted by the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender pursuant to Section 2.07), no further New Vehicle Floorplan Loans shall
be made to any New Vehicle Borrower and the Administrative Agent may, and at the request of the Required Lenders shall, by written or
facsimile notice to the Company, take any of the following actions at the same or different times: (w) declare the commitment of each Lender to
make New Vehicle Floorplan Loans to be terminated, whereupon such commitments and obligation shall be terminated and any such
termination shall automatically terminate the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line, (x) declare the unpaid principal amount of all outstanding
New Vehicle Floorplan Loans, all interest accrued and unpaid thereon, and all other amounts owing or payable hereunder or under any other
Loan Document to be immediately due and payable, without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby
expressly waived by the Company, (y) exercise on behalf of itself and the Lenders all rights and remedies available to it and the Lenders under
the Loan Documents and (ii) the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender in its sole discretion may suspend and terminate all Payment
Commitments and Payoff Letter Commitments, (iii) to the extent the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender determines that such
suspension and termination is permitted by the terms of such Payment Commitments and Payoff Letter Commitments) the New Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender shall, at the request of the Required Lenders, suspend and terminate any or all of the Payment Commitments and
Payoff Letter Commitments, and (iv) the Administrative Agent shall have all remedies available to it at law or in equity or as contained in any
of the Loan Documents;
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provided, however, that upon the occurrence of an actual or deemed entry of an order for relief with respect to the Company under the
Bankruptcy Code of the United States, the obligation of each New Vehicle Lender to make New Vehicle Floorplan Loans shall automatically
terminate, the unpaid principal amount of all outstanding Loans and all interest and other amounts as aforesaid shall automatically become due
and payable, in each case without further act of the Administrative Agent or any Lender; and
provided further, that upon the occurrence of an actual or deemed entry of an order for relief with respect to any New Vehicle Borrower
under the Bankruptcy Code of the United States, the obligation of each New Vehicle Floorplan Lender to make New Vehicle Floorplan Loans
to such New Vehicle Borrower shall automatically terminate, the unpaid principal amount of all outstanding New Vehicle Floorplan Loans
made to such New Vehicle Borrower and all interest and with respect thereto shall automatically become due and payable, in each case without
further act of the Administrative Agent or any New Vehicle Floorplan Lender.
(d)
In addition to the foregoing, if any New Vehicle Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the Administrative Agent shall, at
the request of, or may, with the consent of, the Required Lenders take any or all of the following actions:
(i)
foreclose upon, take possession of, or otherwise exercise any remedies available to it under any Security Instrument
with respect to, any of the Collateral, or
(ii)
take any action to perfect or preserve the rights of the Administrative Agent with respect to any Collateral, including
filing any appropriate claim or document with respect to any Collateral in any proceeding under any Debtor Relief Law.
8.05
Overdrawing of New Vehicle Floorplan Loans. If at any time the aggregate outstanding principal amount of all (i) New
Vehicle Floorplan Loans (including New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans and any outstanding New Vehicle Floorplan Overdraft), plus (ii)
Requests for Borrowings of New Vehicle Floorplan Loans (including requests pursuant to Payment Commitments), exceeds (a) 110% of the
Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments and such condition exists for five (5) consecutive days or (b) the Aggregate New Vehicle
Floorplan Commitments by any amount for fifteen (15) days out of any 30-day period, then, in such event, the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing
Line Lender acting in its sole discretion may, and upon election of the Required Lenders shall, (y) take any and all actions reasonably necessary
to suspend and/or terminate Payment Commitments and Payoff Letter Commitments and (z) elect by written notice to the Company to
terminate the Aggregate New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments and to deem such occurrence as constituting a New Vehicle Event of Default.
Nothing contained in this Section 8.05 shall be deemed to reduce the obligation of the Company and the Borrowers to make the payments
required pursuant to Section 2.15.
8.06
Application of Funds. After the exercise of remedies provided for in this Article VIII (or after the Loans have automatically
become immediately due and payable and the L/C Obligations have automatically been required to be Cash Collateralized as set forth in the
proviso to Section 8.02), any amounts received on account of the Obligations shall subject to Sections 2.26 and 2.27, be applied by the
Administrative Agent in the following order:
First, to payment of that portion of the Obligations constituting fees, indemnities, expenses and other amounts (including fees, charges
and disbursements of counsel to the Administrative Agent and amounts payable under Article III) payable to the Administrative Agent in its
capacity as such;
Second, to payment of that portion of the Obligations constituting accrued and unpaid interest on New Vehicle Floorplan Overdrafts
ratably among the New Vehicle Floorplan Lenders in proportion to the respective amounts described in this clause Second payable to them;
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Third, to payment of that portion of the Obligations constituting unpaid principal on New Vehicle Floorplan Overdrafts ratably among
the New Vehicle Floorplan Lenders in proportion to the respective amounts described in this clause Third payable to them;
Fourth, to payment of that portion of the Obligations constituting accrued and unpaid interest on the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing
Line Loans and the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans, ratably between the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and the Used
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender in proportion to the respective amounts described in this clause Fourth payable to them;
Fifth, to payment of that portion of the Obligations constituting unpaid principal on the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans and
the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans, ratably between the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and the Used Vehicle Floorplan
Swing Line Lender in proportion to the respective amounts described in this clause Fifth held by them;
Sixth, to payment of that portion of the Obligations constituting accrued and unpaid interest on the New Vehicle Floorplan Committed
Loans and the Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans, ratably among the New Vehicle Floorplan Lenders and the Used Vehicle Floorplan
Lenders in proportion to the respective amounts described in this clause Sixth payable to them;
Seventh, to payment of that portion of the Obligations constituting unpaid principal on the New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans
and the Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loans, ratably among the New Vehicle Floorplan Lenders and the Used Vehicle Floorplan Lenders
in proportion to the respective amounts described in this clause Seventh held by them;
Eighth, to payment of that portion of the Obligations constituting fees, indemnities and other amounts (other than principal, interest,
Letter of Credit Fees) payable to the Lenders and the L/C Issuers (including fees, charges and disbursements of counsel to the respective
Lenders and the L/C Issuers (including fees and time charges for attorneys who may be employees of any Lender or the L/C Issuers) and
amounts payable under Article III), ratably among them in proportion to the respective amounts described in this clause Eighth payable to
them;
Ninth, to payment of that portion of the Obligations constituting accrued and unpaid Letter of Credit Fees and interest on the Revolving
Loans, L/C Borrowings and other Obligations under the Revolving Facility, ratably among the Revolving Lenders and the L/C Issuers in
proportion to the respective amounts described in this clause Ninth payable to them;
Tenth, to payment of that portion of the Obligations constituting unpaid principal of the Revolving Loans and L/C Borrowings, ratably
among the Revolving Lenders and the L/C Issuers in proportion to the respective amounts described in this clause Tenth held by them;
Eleventh, to the Administrative Agent for the account of the L/C Issuers, to Cash Collateralize that portion of L/C Obligations
comprised of the aggregate undrawn amount of Letters of Credit to the extent not otherwise Cash Collateralized by the Borrowers pursuant to
Sections 2.03 and 2.26, such Cash Collateral to be allocated ratably between the L/C Issuers in proportion to the respective amounts of such
L/C Obligations held by them;
Twelfth, to payment of that portion of the Obligations constituting Obligations then owing under Secured Hedge Agreements and
Secured Cash Management Agreements, ratably among the Hedge Banks and the Cash Management Banks in proportion to the respective
amounts described in this clause Twelfth payable to them;
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Thirteenth, to the payment of all other Obligations of the Loan Parties owing under or in respect of the Loan Documents that are due
and payable to the Administrative Agent and the other Secured Parties, or any of them, on such date, ratably based on the respective aggregate
amounts of all such Obligations owing to the Administrative Agent and the other Secured Parties on such date; and
Last, the balance, if any, after all of the Obligations have been indefeasibly paid in full, to the Company or as otherwise required by
Law;
provided that, Excluded Swap Obligations with respect to any Loan Party shall not be paid with amounts received from such Loan
Party or its assets, but appropriate adjustments shall be made with respect to payments from other Loan Parties to preserve the allocation to
Obligations otherwise set forth above in this Section.
Subject to Section 2.03(c) and 2.26, amounts used to Cash Collateralize the aggregate undrawn amount of Letters of Credit pursuant to
clause Eleventh above shall be applied to satisfy drawings under such Letters of Credit as they occur. If any amount remains on deposit as Cash
Collateral after all Letters of Credit have either been fully drawn or expired, such remaining amount shall be applied to the other Obligations, if
any, in the order set forth above.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, Obligations arising under Secured Cash Management Agreements and Secured Hedge Agreements
shall be excluded from the application described above if the Administrative Agent has not received written notice thereof, together with such
supporting documentation as the Administrative Agent may request, from the applicable Cash Management Bank or Hedge Bank, as the case
may be. Each Cash Management Bank or Hedge Bank not a party to the Credit Agreement that has given the notice contemplated by the
preceding sentence shall, by such notice, be deemed to have acknowledged and accepted the appointment of the Administrative Agent pursuant
to the terms of Article IX hereof for itself and its Affiliates as if a “Lender” party hereto. Excluded Swap Obligations with respect to any Loan
Party shall not be paid with amounts received from such Loan Party, but appropriate adjustments shall be made with respect to payments from
other Loan Parties to preserve the allocation to Obligations otherwise set forth above in this Section.
ARTICLE IX. ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT
9.01
Appointment and Authority. Each of the Lenders and each L/C Issuer hereby irrevocably appoints Bank of America to act on
its behalf as the Administrative Agent hereunder and under the other Loan Documents and authorizes the Administrative Agent to take such
actions on its behalf and to exercise such powers as are delegated to the Administrative Agent by the terms hereof or thereof, together with such
actions and powers as are reasonably incidental thereto. The provisions of this Article are solely for the benefit of the Administrative Agent, the
Lenders and the L/C Issuers, and neither the Company nor any other Loan Party shall have rights as a third party beneficiary of any of such
provisions. It is understood and agreed that the use of the term “agent” herein or in any other Loan Documents (or any other similar term) with
reference to the Administrative Agent is not intended to connote any fiduciary or other implied (or express) obligations arising under agency
doctrine of any applicable Law. Instead such term is used as a matter of market custom, and is intended to create or reflect only an
administrative relationship between contracting parties.
9.02
Rights as a Lender. The Person serving as the Administrative Agent hereunder shall have the same rights and powers in its
capacity as a Lender as any other Lender and may exercise the same as though it were not the Administrative Agent and the term “Lender” or
“Lenders” shall, unless otherwise expressly indicated or unless the context otherwise requires, include the Person serving as the Administrative
Agent hereunder in its individual capacity. Such Person and its Affiliates may accept deposits from, lend money to, own securities of, act as the
financial advisor or in any other advisory capacity for and generally engage in any kind of business with the Company, any other Borrower or
any
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Subsidiary or other Affiliate thereof as if such Person were not the Administrative Agent hereunder and without any duty to account therefor to
the Lenders.
9.03
Exculpatory Provisions. The Administrative Agent or the Arranger, as applicable, shall not have any duties or obligations
except those expressly set forth herein and in the other Loan Documents, and its duties hereunder shall be administrative in nature. Without
limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Administrative Agent or the Arranger, as applicable:
(a)
shall not be subject to any fiduciary or other implied duties, regardless of whether a Default has occurred and is continuing;
(b)
shall not have any duty to take any discretionary action or exercise any discretionary powers, except discretionary rights and
powers expressly contemplated hereby or by the other Loan Documents that the Administrative Agent is required to exercise as directed in
writing by the Required Lenders (or such other number or percentage of the Lenders as shall be expressly provided for herein or in the other
Loan Documents), provided that the Administrative Agent shall not be required to take any action that, in its opinion or the opinion of its
counsel, may expose the Administrative Agent to liability or that is contrary to any Loan Document or applicable law, including for the
avoidance of doubt any action that may be in violation of the automatic stay under any Debtor Relief Law or that may effect a forfeiture,
modification or termination of property of a Defaulting Lender in violation of any Debtor Relief Law; and
(c)
shall not, except as expressly set forth herein and in the other Loan Documents, have any duty to disclose, and shall not be
liable for the failure to disclose, any information relating to the Company or any of the other Borrowers or any of its Affiliates that is
communicated to or obtained by the Person serving as the Administrative Agent or any of its Affiliates in any capacity.
(d)
shall not be liable for any action taken or not taken by it (i) with the consent or at the request of the Required Lenders (or such
other number or percentage of the Lenders as shall be necessary, or as the Administrative Agent shall believe in good faith shall be necessary,
under the circumstances as provided in Sections 10.01, 8.02 and 8.04) or (ii) in the absence of its own gross negligence or willful misconduct,
as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction by a final and nonappealable judgment. The Administrative Agent shall be deemed not to
have knowledge of any Default unless and until notice describing such Default is given in writing to the Administrative Agent by a Borrower, a
Lender or the L/C Issuer;
(e)
shall not be responsible for or have any duty to ascertain or inquire into (i) any statement, warranty or representation made in
or in connection with this Agreement or any other Loan Document, (ii) the contents of any certificate, report or other document delivered
hereunder or thereunder or in connection herewith or therewith, (iii) the performance or observance of any of the covenants, agreements or
other terms or conditions set forth herein or therein or the occurrence of any Default, (iv) the validity, enforceability, effectiveness or
genuineness of this Agreement, any other Loan Document or any other agreement, instrument or document, or the creation, perfection or
priority of any Lien purported to be created by the Loan Documents, (v) the value or the sufficiency of any Collateral, (v) the satisfaction of any
condition set forth in Article IV or elsewhere herein, other than to confirm receipt of items expressly required to be delivered to the
Administrative Agent; and
(f)
shall not be responsible or have any liability for, or have any duty to ascertain, inquire into, monitor or enforce, compliance
with the provisions of this Agreement relating to Competitors. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Administrative Agent shall
not (x) be obligated to ascertain, monitor or inquire as to whether any Lender or Participant or prospective Lender or Participant is a Competitor
or (y) have any liability with respect to or arising out of any assignment or participation of Loans, or disclosure of confidential information, to
any Competitor.
9.04
Reliance by Administrative Agent. The Administrative Agent shall be entitled to rely upon, and shall not incur any liability
for relying upon, any notice, request, certificate, consent, statement, instrument, document or other writing (including any electronic message,
Internet or intranet website posting or other distribution) believed by it to be genuine and to have been signed, sent or otherwise authenticated
by the proper Person. The Administrative Agent also may rely upon any statement made to
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it orally or by telephone and believed by it to have been made by the proper Person, and shall not incur any liability for relying thereon. In
determining compliance with any condition hereunder to the making of a Loan, or the issuance, extension, renewal or increase of a Letter of
Credit, that by its terms must be fulfilled to the satisfaction of a Lender or the applicable L/C Issuer, the Administrative Agent may presume
that such condition is satisfactory to such Lender or such L/C Issuer unless the Administrative Agent shall have received notice to the contrary
from such Lender or such L/C Issuer prior to the making of such Loan or the issuance of such Letter of Credit. The Administrative Agent may
consult with legal counsel (who may be counsel for the Company), independent accountants and other experts selected by it, and shall not be
liable for any action taken or not taken by it in accordance with the advice of any such counsel, accountants or experts.
9.05
Delegation of Duties. The Administrative Agent may perform any and all of its duties and exercise its rights and powers
hereunder or under any other Loan Document by or through any one or more sub-agents appointed by the Administrative Agent. The
Administrative Agent and any such sub-agent may perform any and all of its duties and exercise its rights and powers by or through their
respective Related Parties. The exculpatory provisions of this Article shall apply to any such sub-agent and to the Related Parties of the
Administrative Agent and any such sub agent, and shall apply to their respective activities in connection with the syndication of the credit
facilities provided for herein as well as activities as Administrative Agent. The Administrative Agent shall not be responsible for the negligence
or misconduct of any sub-agents except to the extent that a court of competent jurisdiction determines in a final and non- appealable judgment
that the Administrative Agent acted with gross negligence or willful misconduct in the selection of such sub-agents.
9.06
Resignation of Administrative Agent.
(a)
The Administrative Agent may at any time give notice of its resignation to the Lenders, the L/C Issuers and the Company.
Upon receipt of any such notice of resignation, the Required Lenders shall have the right, in consultation with the Company, to appoint a
successor, which shall be a bank with an office in the United States, or an Affiliate of any such bank with an office in the United States. If no
such successor shall have been so appointed by the Required Lenders and shall have accepted such appointment within 30 days after the
retiring Administrative Agent gives notice of its resignation (or such earlier day as shall be agreed by the Required Lenders) (the “Resignation
Effective Date”)), then the retiring Administrative Agent may (but shall not be obligated to) on behalf of the Lenders and the L/C Issuers,
appoint a successor Administrative Agent meeting the qualifications set forth above; provided that in no event shall any such successor
Administrative Agent be a Defaulting Lender. Whether or not a successor has been appointed, such resignation shall become effective in
accordance with such notice on the Resignation Effective Date.
(b)
If the Person serving as Administrative Agent is a Defaulting Lender pursuant to clause (d) of the definition thereof, the
Required Lenders may, to the extent permitted by applicable law, by notice in writing to the Company and such Person remove such Person as
Administrative Agent and, in consultation with the Company, appoint a successor. If no such successor shall have been so appointed by the
Required Lenders and shall have accepted such appointment within 30 days (or such earlier day as shall be agreed by the Required Lenders)
(the “Removal Effective Date”), then such removal shall nonetheless become effective in accordance with such notice on the Removal
Effective Date.
(c)
With effect from the Resignation Effective Date or the Removal Effective Date (as applicable) (1) the retiring or removed
Administrative Agent shall be discharged from its duties and obligations hereunder and under the other Loan Documents (except that in the
case of any collateral security held by the Administrative Agent on behalf of the Lenders or any L/C Issuer under any of the Loan Documents,
the retiring or removed Administrative Agent shall continue to hold such collateral security until such time as a successor Administrative Agent
is appointed) and (2) except for any indemnity payments or other amounts then owed to the retiring or removed Administrative Agent, all
payments, communications and determinations provided to be made by, to or through the Administrative Agent shall instead be made by or to
each Lender and each L/C Issuer directly, until such time as the Required Lenders appoint a successor Administrative Agent as provided for
above in this Section. Upon the acceptance of a successor’s appointment as Administrative Agent hereunder, such successor shall succeed to
and become vested with all of the rights, powers, privileges and duties of the retiring (or
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removed) Administrative Agent (other than as provided in Section 3.01(g) and other than any rights to indemnity payments or other amounts
owed to the retiring or removed Administrative Agent as of the Resignation Effective Date or the Removal Effective Date, as applicable), and
the retiring or removed Administrative Agent shall be discharged from all of its duties and obligations hereunder or under the other Loan
Documents (if not already discharged therefrom as provided above in this Section). The foregoing notwithstanding, upon the discharge of the
retiring Administrative Agent’s duties hereunder, neither the retiring Administrative Agent nor the successor Administrative Agent or any New
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender shall be required to honor any request by a vehicle manufacturer or distributor or financial institution for
advance of a New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan, unless and until (A) such successor Administrative Agent and such manufacturer or
distributor or financial institution (and if required pursuant to the terms of such Payment Commitment or Payoff Letter Commitment, the
applicable New Vehicle Borrower) have entered into a new Payment Commitment or Payoff Letter Commitment, and (B) any existing Payment
Commitment between such manufacturer or distributor or Payoff Commitment Letter between such financial institution and the retiring
Administrative Agent has been terminated. The fees payable by the Borrowers to a successor Administrative Agent shall be the same as those
payable to its predecessor unless otherwise agreed between the Borrowers and such successor. After the retiring or removed Administrative
Agent’s resignation or removal hereunder and under the other Loan Documents, the provisions of this Article and Section 10.04 shall continue
in effect for the benefit of such retiring or removed Administrative Agent, its sub agents and their respective Related Parties in respect of any
actions taken or omitted to be taken by any of them (i) while the retiring or removed Administrative Agent was acting as Administrative Agent
and (ii) after such resignation or removal for as long as any of them continues to act in any capacity hereunder or under the other Loan
Documents, including (a) acting as collateral agent or otherwise holding any collateral security on behalf of any of the Lenders and (b) in
respect of any actions taken in connection with transferring the agency to any successor Administrative Agent.
(d)
Any resignation by Bank of America as Administrative Agent pursuant to this Section shall also constitute its resignation as an
L/C Issuer, Revolving Swing Line Lender, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender;
provided that Bank of America shall continue to serve as New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender for at least 75 days following delivery of a
notice of resignation as Administrative Agent. If Bank of America resigns as an L/C Issuer, it shall retain all the rights, powers, privileges and
duties of the L/C Issuer hereunder with respect to all Letters of Credit outstanding as of the effective date of its resignation as L/C Issuer and all
L/C Obligations with respect thereto, including the right to require the Lenders to make Base Rate Loans or fund risk participations in
Unreimbursed Amounts pursuant to Section 2.03(c). If Bank of America resigns as Revolving Swing Line Lender, New Vehicle Floorplan
Swing Line Lender or Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, it shall retain all the rights of the Revolving Swing Line Lender, New
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender or Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, as the case may be, provided for hereunder with respect to
the applicable Swing Line Loans made by it and outstanding as of the effective date of such resignation, including the right to require the
Lenders to make Base Rate Loans or fund risk participations in outstanding Swing Line Loans pursuant to Section 2.04(c). Upon the
acceptance of a successor’s appointment as Administrative Agent hereunder, (a) such successor shall succeed to and become vested with all of
the rights, powers, privileges and duties of the retiring L/C Issuer, Revolving Swing Line Lender, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender
and Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, (b) the retiring L/C Issuer, Revolving Swing Line Lender, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Lender and Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender shall be discharged from all of their respective duties and obligations hereunder or
under the other Loan Documents, and (c) the successor L/C Issuer shall issue letters of credit in substitution for the Letters of Credit, if any,
outstanding at the time of such succession or make other arrangements satisfactory to the retiring L/C Issuer to effectively assume the
obligations of the retiring L/C Issuer with respect to such Letters of Credit.
9.07
Non-Reliance on the Administrative Agent, the Arranger and the Other Lenders. Each Lender and each L/C Issuer
expressly acknowledges that none of the Administrative Agent nor the Arranger has made any representation or warranty to it, and that no act
by the Administrative Agent or the Arranger hereafter taken, including any consent to, and acceptance of any assignment or review of the
affairs of any Loan Party of any Affiliate thereof, shall be deemed to constitute any representation or warranty by the Administrative Agent or
the Arranger to any Lender or each L/C Issuer as to any matter,
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including whether the Administrative Agent or the Arranger have disclosed material information in their (or their Related Parties’) possession.
Each Lender and each L/C Issuer represents to the Administrative Agent and the Arranger that it has, independently and without reliance upon
the Administrative Agent, the Arranger, any other Lender or any of their Related Parties and based on such documents and information as it has
deemed appropriate, made its own credit analysis of, appraisal of, and investigation into, the business, prospects, operations, property, financial
and other condition and creditworthiness of the Loan Parties and their Subsidiaries, and all applicable bank or other regulatory Laws relating to
the transactions contemplated hereby, and made its own decision to enter into this Agreement and to extend credit to the Borrower hereunder.
Each Lender and each L/C Issuer also acknowledges that it will, independently and without reliance upon the Administrative Agent, the
Arranger, any other Lender or any of their Related Parties and based on such documents and information as it shall from time to time deem
appropriate, continue to make its own credit analysis, appraisals and decisions in taking or not taking action under or based upon this
Agreement, any other Loan Document or any related agreement or any document furnished hereunder or thereunder, and to make such
investigations as it deems necessary to inform itself as to the business, prospects, operations, property, financial and other condition and
creditworthiness of the Loan Parties. Each Lender and each L/C Issuer represents and warrants that (i) the Loan Documents set forth the terms
of a commercial lending facility and (ii) it is engaged in making, acquiring or holding commercial loans in the ordinary course and is entering
into this Agreement as a Lender or L/C Issuer for the purpose of making, acquiring or holding commercial loans and providing other facilities
set forth herein as may be applicable to such Lender or L/C Issuer, and not for the purpose of purchasing, acquiring or holding any other type of
financial instrument, and each Lender and each L/C Issuer agrees not to assert a claim in contravention of the foregoing. Each Lender and each
L/C Issuer represents and warrants that it is sophisticated with respect to decisions to make, acquire and/or hold commercial loans and to
provide other facilities set forth herein, as may be applicable to such Lender or such L/C Issuer, and either it, or the Person exercising discretion
in making its decision to make, acquire and/or hold such commercial loans or to provide such other facilities, is experienced in making,
acquiring or holding such commercial loans or providing such other facilities.
9.08
No Other Duties, Etc. Anything herein to the contrary notwithstanding, none of the Bookrunners, Arrangers, Co-Syndication
Agents or Co-Documentation Agents listed on the cover page hereof shall have any powers, duties or responsibilities under this Agreement or
any of the other Loan Documents, except in its capacity, as applicable, as the Administrative Agent, a Lender or an L/C Issuer hereunder.
9.09
Administrative Agent May File Proofs of Claim; Credit Bidding. In case of the pendency of any proceeding under any
Debtor Relief Law or any other judicial proceeding relative to any Loan Party, the Administrative Agent (irrespective of whether the principal
of any Loan or L/C Obligation shall then be due and payable as herein expressed or by declaration or otherwise and irrespective of whether the
Administrative Agent shall have made any demand on the Company or any other Borrower) shall be entitled and empowered, by intervention in
such proceeding or otherwise,
(a)
to file and prove a claim for the whole amount of the principal and interest owing and unpaid in respect of the Loans, L/C
Obligations and all other Obligations that are owing and unpaid and to file such other documents as may be necessary or advisable in order to
have the claims of the Lenders, the L/C Issuers and the Administrative Agent (including any claim for the reasonable compensation, expenses,
disbursements and advances of the Lenders, the L/C Issuers and the Administrative Agent and their respective agents and counsel and all other
amounts due the Lenders, the L/C Issuers and the Administrative Agent under Sections 2.03(j) and (k), 2.17 and 10.04) allowed in such judicial
proceeding; and
(b)
to collect and receive any monies or other property payable or deliverable on any such claims and to distribute the same;
and any custodian, receiver, assignee, trustee, liquidator, sequestrator or other similar official in any such judicial proceeding is hereby
authorized by each Lender and each L/C Issuer to make such payments to the Administrative Agent and, in the event that the Administrative
Agent shall consent to the making of such payments directly to the Lenders and the L/C Issuers, to pay to the Administrative Agent any amount
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due for the reasonable compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of the Administrative Agent and its agents and counsel, and any
other amounts due the Administrative Agent under Sections 2.17 and 10.04.
Nothing contained herein shall be deemed to authorize the Administrative Agent to authorize or consent to or accept or adopt on behalf
of any Lender or any L/C Issuer any plan of reorganization, arrangement, adjustment or composition affecting the Obligations or the rights of
any Lender or any L/C Issuer to authorize the Administrative Agent to vote in respect of the claim of any Lender or any L/C Issuer in any such
proceeding.
The Secured Parties hereby irrevocably authorize the Administrative Agent, at the direction of the Required Lenders, to credit bid all or
any portion of the Obligations and in such manner purchase (either directly or through one or more acquisition vehicles) all or any portion of
the Collateral (a) at any sale thereof conducted under the provisions of the Bankruptcy Code of the United States, including under Sections 363,
1123 or 1129 of the Bankruptcy Code of the United States, or any similar Laws in any other jurisdictions to which a Loan Party is subject, (b)
at any other sale or foreclosure or acceptance of collateral in lieu of debt conducted by (or with the consent or at the direction of) the
Administrative Agent (whether by judicial action or otherwise) in accordance with any applicable Law. In connection with any such credit bid
and purchase, the Obligations owed to the Secured Parties shall be entitled to be, and shall be, credit bid on a ratable basis (with Obligations
with respect to contingent or unliquidated claims receiving contingent interests in the acquired assets on a ratable basis that would vest upon the
liquidation of such claims in an amount proportional to the liquidated portion of the contingent claim amount used in allocating the contingent
interests) in the asset or assets so purchased (or in the Equity Interests or debt instruments of the acquisition vehicle or vehicles that are used to
consummate such purchase). In connection with any such bid (i) the Administrative Agent shall be authorized to form one or more acquisition
vehicles to make a bid, (ii) to adopt documents providing for the governance of the acquisition vehicle or vehicles (provided that any actions by
the Administrative Agent with respect to such acquisition vehicle or vehicles, including any disposition of the assets or Equity Interests thereof
shall be governed, directly or indirectly, by the vote of the Required Lenders, irrespective of the termination of this Agreement and without
giving effect to the limitations on actions by the Required Lenders contained in clauses (a) through (h) of Section 10.01 of this Agreement, (iii)
the Administrative Agent shall be authorized to assign the relevant Obligations to any such acquisition vehicle pro rata by the Lenders, as a
result of which each of the Lenders shall be deemed to have received a pro rata portion of any Equity Interests and/or debt instruments issued
by such an acquisition vehicle on account of the assignment of the Obligations to be credit bid, all without the need for any Secured Party or
acquisition vehicle to take any further action, and (iv) to the extent that Obligations that are assigned to an acquisition vehicle are not used to
acquire Collateral for any reason (as a result of another bid being higher or better, because the amount of Obligations assigned to the acquisition
vehicle exceeds the amount of debt credit bid by the acquisition vehicle or otherwise), such Obligations shall automatically be reassigned to the
Lenders pro rata and the Equity Interests and/or debt instruments issued by any acquisition vehicle on account of the Obligations that had been
assigned to the acquisition vehicle shall automatically be cancelled, without the need for any Secured Party or any acquisition vehicle to take
any further action.
9.10
Collateral and Guaranty Matters. The Lenders and the L/C Issuers irrevocably authorize the Administrative Agent, at its
option and in its discretion,
(a)
to release any Lien on any property granted to or held by the Administrative Agent under any Loan Document (i) upon
termination of the Aggregate Commitments and payment in full of all Obligations (other than contingent indemnification obligations) and the
expiration or termination of all Letters of Credit (other than Letters of Credit as to which other arrangements satisfactory to the
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Administrative Agent and the applicable L/C Issuer shall have been made), (ii) that is sold or to be sold as part of or in connection with any sale
permitted hereunder or under any other Loan Document, (iii) that is owned by any Subsidiary if such Person ceases to be a Restricted
Subsidiary as a result of a transaction permitted hereunder, or (iv) subject to Section 10.01, if approved, authorized or ratified in writing by the
Required Lenders;
(b)
to subordinate any Lien on any property granted to or held by the Administrative Agent under any Loan Document to the
holder of any Lien on such property that is permitted by Section 7.02(b);
(c)
to release any Subsidiary Guarantor from its obligations under the Guaranty, or to release any Subsidiary that is a Vehicle
Borrower from all or part of its obligations as a Vehicle Borrower under the Loan Documents, if such Person ceases to be a Restricted
Subsidiary as a result of a transaction permitted hereunder;
(d)
to enter into Service Loaner Intercreditor Agreements with respect to Indebtedness permitted by Section 7.01(q) and
intercreditor agreements with respect to Liens permitted by Section 7.02(f) (the parties hereto acknowledging that the Administrative Agent
entered into that certain (x) Intercreditor Agreement dated as October 12, 2011 between BMW of North America, LLC and the Administrative
Agent, and acknowledged by the Company and (y) Intercreditor Agreement dated as October 12, 2011 between the MINI Division of BMW of
North America, LLC and the Administrative Agent, and acknowledged by the Company);
(e)
to enter into any FMCC Intercreditor Agreement, including any such agreement entered into on or after December 4, 2014,
with respect to Indebtedness permitted by Section 7.01(r);
(f)
[intentionally omitted]
(g)
to execute and deliver that certain letter agreement with Ford Motor Company, substantially in the form provided to the
Lenders.
Upon request by the Administrative Agent at any time, the Required Lenders will confirm in writing the Administrative Agent’s
authority to release or subordinate its interest in particular types or items of property, or to release any Subsidiary Guarantor from its
obligations under the Guaranty pursuant to this Section 9.10.
The Administrative Agent shall not be responsible for or have a duty to ascertain or inquire into any representation or warranty
regarding the existence, value or collectability of the Collateral, the existence, priority or perfection of the Administrative Agent’s Lien
purported to be created by the Security Instruments, or any certificate prepared by any Loan Party in connection therewith, nor shall the
Administrative Agent be responsible or liable to the Lenders for any failure to monitor or maintain any portion of the Collateral.
9.11
Secured Cash Management Arrangements and Secured Hedge Agreements. Except as otherwise expressly set forth herein
or in any Subsidiary Guaranty or any Security Instrument, no Cash Management Bank or Lender or Affiliate of a Lender party to a Related
Swap Agreement that obtains the benefit of the provisions of Section 8.06, any Subsidiary Guaranty or any Collateral by virtue of the
provisions hereof or of the Subsidiary Guaranty or any Security Instrument shall have any right to notice of any action or to consent to, direct or
object to any action hereunder or under any other Loan Document or otherwise in respect of the Collateral (including the release or impairment
of any Collateral) other than in its capacity as a Lender and, in such case, only to the extent expressly provided in the Loan Documents.
Notwithstanding any other provision of this Article IX to the contrary, the Administrative Agent shall not be required to verify the payment of,
or that other satisfactory arrangements have been made with respect to, Obligations arising under Secured Cash Management Arrangements
and Related Swap Agreements unless the Administrative Agent has received written notice of such Obligations, together with such supporting
documentation as the Administrative Agent may request, from the applicable Cash Management Bank or Lender or Affiliate of a Lender, as the
case may be.
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9.12
Certain ERISA Matters.
(a)
Each Lender (x) represents and warrants, as of the date such Person became a Lender party hereto, to, and (y) covenants, from
the date such Person became a Lender party hereto to the date such Person ceases being a Lender party hereto, for the benefit of, the
Administrative Agent and not, for the avoidance of doubt, to or for the benefit of the Borrower or any other Loan Party, that at least one of the
following is and will be true:
(i)
such Lender is not using “plan assets” (within the meaning of Section 3(42) of ERISA or otherwise) of one or more
Benefit Plans with respect to such Lender’s entrance into, participation in, administration of and performance of the Loans, the Letters
of Credit, the Commitments or this Agreement,
(ii)
the transaction exemption set forth in one or more PTEs, such as PTE 84-14 (a class exemption for certain transactions
determined by independent qualified professional asset managers), PTE 95-60 (a class exemption for certain transactions involving
insurance company general accounts), PTE 90-1 (a class exemption for certain transactions involving insurance company pooled
separate accounts), PTE 91-38 (a class exemption for certain transactions involving bank collective investment funds) or PTE 96-23 (a
class exemption for certain transactions determined by in-house asset managers), is applicable with respect to such Lender’s entrance
into, participation in, administration of and performance of the Loans, the Letters of Credit, the Commitments and this Agreement,
(iii)
(A) such Lender is an investment fund managed by a “Qualified Professional Asset Manager” (within the meaning of
Part VI of PTE 84-14), (B) such Qualified Professional Asset Manager made the investment decision on behalf of such Lender to enter
into, participate in, administer and perform the Loans, the Letters of Credit, the Commitments and this Agreement, (C) the entrance
into, participation in, administration of and performance of the Loans, the Letters of Credit, the Commitments and this Agreement
satisfies the requirements of sub-sections (b) through (g) of Part I of PTE 84-14 and (D) to the best knowledge of such Lender, the
requirements of subsection (a) of Part I of PTE 84-14 are satisfied with respect to such Lender’s entrance into, participation in,
administration of and performance of the Loans, the Letters of Credit, the Commitments and this Agreement, or
(iv)
such other representation, warranty and covenant as may be agreed in writing between the Administrative Agent, in its
sole discretion, and such Lender.
(b)
In addition, unless either (1) sub-clause (i) in the immediately preceding clause (a) is true with respect to a Lender or (2) a
Lender has provided another representation, warranty and covenant in accordance with sub-clause (iv) in the immediately preceding clause (a),
such Lender further (x) represents and warrants, as of the date such Person became a Lender party hereto, to, and (y) covenants, from the date
such Person became a Lender party hereto to the date such Person ceases being a Lender party hereto, for the benefit of, the Administrative
Agent and not, for the avoidance of doubt, to or for the benefit of the Borrower or any other Loan Party, that the Administrative Agent is not a
fiduciary with respect to the assets of such Lender involved in such Lender’s entrance into, participation in, administration of and performance
of the Loans, the Letters of Credit, the Commitments and this Agreement (including in connection with the reservation or exercise of any rights
by the Administrative Agent under this Agreement, any Loan Document or any documents related hereto or thereto).
9.13
Recovery of Erroneous Payments. Without limitation of any other provision in this Agreement, if at any time the
Administrative Agent makes a payment hereunder in error to any Lender Recipient Party, whether or not in respect of an Obligation due and
owing by the Borrower at such time, where such payment is a Rescindable Amount, then in any such event, each Lender Recipient Party
receiving a Rescindable Amount severally agrees to repay to the Administrative Agent forthwith on demand the Rescindable Amount received
by such Lender Recipient Party in immediately available funds in the currency so received, with interest thereon, for each day from and
including the date such Rescindable Amount is received by it to but excluding the date of payment to the Administrative Agent, at the greater
of the Federal Funds Rate and a rate determined by the Administrative Agent in accordance
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with banking industry rules on interbank compensation. Each Lender Recipient Party irrevocably waives any and all defenses, including any
“discharge for value” (under which a creditor might otherwise claim a right to retain funds mistakenly paid by a third party in respect of a debt
owed by another) or similar defense to its obligation to return any Rescindable Amount. The Administrative Agent shall inform each Lender
Recipient Party promptly upon determining that any payment made to such Lender Recipient Party comprised, in whole or in part, a
Rescindable Amount.
ARTICLE X. MISCELLANEOUS
10.01
Amendments, Etc. Subject to Section 3.03(c) and the last paragraph of this Section 10.01, no amendment or waiver of any
provision of this Agreement or any other Loan Document, and no consent to any departure by the Company or any other Loan Party therefrom,
shall be effective unless in writing signed by the Required Lenders and the Company or the applicable Loan Party, as the case may be, and
acknowledged by the Administrative Agent, and each such waiver or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the specific
purpose for which given; provided, however, that no such amendment, waiver or consent shall:
(a)
waive any condition set forth in Section 4.01(a) without the written consent of each Lender;
(b)
extend or increase the Revolving Commitment, the New Vehicle Floorplan Commitment or the Used Vehicle Floorplan
Commitment of any Lender (or reinstate any Revolving Commitment, New Vehicle Floorplan Commitment or Used Vehicle Floorplan
Commitment terminated pursuant to Section 8.02 or Section 8.04, as applicable) without the written consent of such Lender;
(c)
postpone any date fixed by this Agreement or any other Loan Document for any payment of principal, interest, fees or other
amounts due to the Lenders (or any of them) or any scheduled or mandatory reduction of the Aggregate Revolving Commitments, Aggregate
New Vehicle Floorplan Commitments or Aggregate Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitments hereunder or under any other Loan Document
without the written consent of each Lender directly affected thereby; provided, however, that only the consent of the Required Lenders shall be
required to postpone any date fixed for any mandatory prepayment of principal of any Loan or interest accrued on such principal amount;
(d)
reduce the principal of, or the rate of interest specified herein on, any Loan or L/C Borrowing, or (subject to clause (iv) of the
second proviso to this Section 10.01) any fees or other amounts payable hereunder or under any other Loan Document without the written
consent of each Lender directly affected thereby; provided, however, that only the consent of the Required Lenders shall be necessary (i) to
amend the definition of “Default Rate” or to waive any obligation of any Borrower to pay interest or Letter of Credit Fees at the Default Rate or
(ii) to amend any financial covenant hereunder (or any defined term used therein) even if the effect of such amendment would be to reduce the
rate of interest on any Loan or L/C Borrowing or to reduce any fee payable hereunder;
(e)
change Section 2.21 or Section 8.06 in a manner that would alter the pro rata payments or pro rata sharing of payments
required thereby without the written consent of each Lender;
(f)
change any provision of this Section or the definition of “Required Lenders” or any other provision hereof specifying the
number or percentage of Lenders required to amend, waive or otherwise modify any rights hereunder or make any determination or grant any
consent hereunder, without the written consent of each Lender;
(g)
release the Company from the Company Guaranty or release all or substantially all of the value of the Subsidiary Guaranty,
without the written consent of each Lender;
(h)
release all or substantially all of the Collateral in any transaction or series of related transactions, except as specifically required
by the Loan Documents, without the written consent of each Lender; or
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(i)
except as expressly permitted by Section 9.10 and otherwise as expressly permitted by this Agreement, (i) subordinate, or have
the effect of subordinating, all of the Obligations hereunder to any other Indebtedness or other obligation or (ii) subordinate, or have the effect
of subordinating, all of the Liens securing the Obligations to Liens securing any other Indebtedness or other obligation without the written
consent of each Lender adversely effected thereby;
and, provided further, that (i) no amendment, waiver or consent shall, unless in writing and signed by the applicable L/C Issuer in addition to
the Lenders required above, affect the rights or duties of such L/C Issuer under this Agreement or any Issuer Document relating to any Letter of
Credit issued or to be issued by it; (ii) no amendment, waiver or consent shall, unless in writing and signed by the applicable Swing Line
Lender in addition to the Lenders required above, affect the rights or duties of such Swing Line Lender under this Agreement; (iii) no
amendment, waiver or consent shall, unless in writing and signed by the Administrative Agent in addition to the Lenders required above, affect
the rights or duties of the Administrative Agent under this Agreement or any other Loan Document; and (iv) each respective Fee Letter may be
amended, or rights or privileges thereunder waived, in a writing executed only by the parties thereto. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary
herein, no Defaulting Lender shall have any right to approve or disapprove any amendment, waiver or consent hereunder (and any amendment,
waiver or consent which by its terms requires the consent of all Lenders or each affected Lender may be effected with the consent of the
applicable Lenders other than Defaulting Lenders), except that (x) the Commitment of any Defaulting Lender may not be increased or extended
or the maturity of any of its Loans may not be extended, the rate of interest on any of its Loans may not be reduced and the principal amount of
any of its Loans may not be forgiven, in each case without the consent of such Defaulting Lender and (y) any waiver, amendment, consent or
modification requiring the consent of all Lenders or each affected Lender that by its terms affects any Defaulting Lender more adversely
relative to other affected Lenders shall require the consent of such Defaulting Lender.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Section 10.01, (y) this Agreement may be amended and restated without the
consent of any Lender (but with the consent of the Company and Administrative Agent) if, upon giving effect to such amendment and
restatement, such Lender shall no longer be a party to this Agreement (as so amended and restated), the Commitments of such Lender shall
have terminated, such Lender shall have no other commitment or other obligation hereunder and shall have been paid in full all principal,
interest and other amounts owing to it or accrued for its account under this Agreement, and (z) Administrative Agent and the Company may
amend or modify this Agreement and any other Loan Document to (1) cure any ambiguity, omission, defect or inconsistency therein or (2)
grant a new Lien for the benefit of the Secured Parties, extend an existing Lien over additional property for the benefit of the Secured Parties or
join additional Persons as Credit Parties.
Notwithstanding any provision herein to the contrary, if the Administrative Agent and the Company acting together identify any
ambiguity, omission, mistake, typographical error or other defect in any provision of this Agreement or any other Loan Document (including
the schedules and exhibits thereto), then the Administrative Agent and the Borrower shall be permitted to amend, modify or supplement such
provision to cure such ambiguity, omission, mistake, typographical error or other defect, and such amendment shall become effective without
any further action or consent of any other party to this Agreement.
10.02
Notices; Effectiveness; Electronic Communication.
(a)
Notices Generally. Except in the case of notices and other communications expressly permitted to be given by telephone (and
except as provided in subsection (b) below), all notices and other communications provided for herein shall be in writing and shall be delivered
by hand or overnight courier service, mailed by certified or registered mail or sent by facsimile or electronic mail as follows,
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and all notices and other communications expressly permitted hereunder to be given by telephone shall be made to the applicable telephone
number, as follows:
(i)
if to the Company, a Borrower, any other Loan Party, the Administrative Agent, Bank of America as an L/C Issuer, the
Revolving Swing Line Lender, the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender or the
New Vehicle Floorplan Operations Group to the address, facsimile number, electronic mail address or telephone number specified for
such Person on Schedule 10.02; and
(ii)
if to any other Lender or L/C Issuer, to the address, facsimile number, electronic mail address or telephone number
specified in its Administrative Questionnaire (including, as appropriate, notices delivered solely to the Person designated by a Lender
or L/C Issuer on its Administrative Questionnaire then in effect for the delivery of notices that may contain material non-public
information relating to the Company).
Notices and other communications sent by hand or overnight courier service, or mailed by certified or registered mail, shall be deemed to have
been given when received; notices and other communications sent by facsimile shall be deemed to have been given when sent (except that, if
not given during normal business hours for the recipient, shall be deemed to have been given at the opening of business on the next Business
Day for the recipient). Notices and other communications delivered through electronic communications to the extent provided in subsection (b)
below, shall be effective as provided in such subsection (b).
(b)
Electronic Communications. Notices and other communications to the Lenders and the L/C Issuers hereunder may be delivered
or furnished by electronic communication (including e-mail, FpMl messaging and Internet or intranet websites) pursuant to procedures
approved by the Administrative Agent, provided that the foregoing shall not apply to notices to any Lender or any L/C Issuer pursuant to
Article II if such Lender or such L/C Issuer, as applicable, has notified the Administrative Agent that it is incapable of receiving notices under
such Article by electronic communication. The Administrative Agent, the Swing Line Lenders, the L/C Issuers or the Company may, in its
discretion, agree to accept notices and other communications to it hereunder by electronic communications pursuant to procedures approved by
it, provided that approval of such procedures may be limited to particular notices or communications.
Unless the Administrative Agent otherwise prescribes, (i) notices and other communications sent to an e-mail address shall be deemed
received upon the sender’s receipt of an acknowledgement from the intended recipient (such as by the “return receipt requested” function, as
available, return e-mail or other written acknowledgement) and (ii) notices or communications posted to an Internet or intranet website shall be
deemed received upon the deemed receipt by the intended recipient at its e-mail address as described in the foregoing clause (i) of notification
that such notice or communication is available and identifying the website address therefor; provided that, for both clauses (i) and (ii), if such
notice, email or other communication is not sent during the normal business hours of the recipient, such notice, email or communication shall
be deemed to have been sent at the opening of business on the next business day for the recipient.
(c)
The Platform. THE PLATFORM IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND “AS AVAILABLE.” THE AGENT PARTIES (AS DEFINED
BELOW) DO NOT WARRANT THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE BORROWER MATERIALS OR THE ADEQUACY OF
THE PLATFORM, AND EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM LIABILITY FOR ERRORS IN OR OMISSIONS FROM THE BORROWER
MATERIALS. NO WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING ANY WARRANTY OF
MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, NON-INFRINGEMENT OF THIRD PARTY RIGHTS OR FREEDOM
FROM VIRUSES OR OTHER CODE DEFECTS, IS MADE BY ANY AGENT PARTY IN CONNECTION WITH THE BORROWER
MATERIALS OR THE PLATFORM. In no event shall the Administrative Agent or any of its Related Parties (collectively, the “Agent Parties”)
have any liability to
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any Borrower, any Lender, any L/C Issuer or any other Person for losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses of any kind (whether in tort,
contract or otherwise) arising out of the Company’s, any Loan Party’s or the Administrative Agent’s transmission of Borrower Materials
through the Platform, any other electronic platform or electronic messaging service or through the Internet, except to the extent that such losses,
claims, damages, liabilities or expenses are determined by a court of competent jurisdiction by a final and nonappealable judgment to have
resulted from the gross negligence or willful misconduct of such Agent Party; provided, however, that in no event shall any Agent Party have
any liability to the Company, any Lender, any L/C Issuer or any other Person for indirect, special, incidental, consequential or punitive damages
(as opposed to direct or actual damages).
(d)
Change of Address, Etc. Each of the Company (for itself and on behalf of the other Borrowers), the Administrative Agent,
Bank of America, as an L/C Issuer, the Revolving Swing Line Lender, the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, the Used Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender, and the New Vehicle Operations Group may change its address, facsimile or telephone number for notices and
other communications hereunder by notice to the other parties hereto. Each other Lender or L/C Issuer may change its address, facsimile or
telephone number for notices and other communications hereunder by notice to the Company, the Administrative Agent, the L/C Issuers, the
Revolving Swing Line Lender, the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and the New
Vehicle Floorplan Operations Group. In addition, each Lender and each L/C Issuer agrees to notify the Administrative Agent from time to time
to ensure that the Administrative Agent has on record (i) an effective address, contact name, telephone number, facsimile number and electronic
mail address to which notices and other communications may be sent and (ii) accurate wire instructions for such Lender or L/C Issuer, as
applicable. Furthermore, each Public Lender agrees to cause at least one individual at or on behalf of such Public Lender to at all times have
selected the “Private Side Information” or similar designation on the content declaration screen of the Platform in order to enable such Public
Lender or its delegate, in accordance with such Public Lender’s compliance procedures and applicable Law, including United States Federal
and state securities Laws, to make reference to Borrower Materials that are not made available through the “Public Side Information” portion of
the Platform and that may contain material non-public information with respect to any Borrower or its securities for purposes of United States
Federal or state securities laws.
(e)
Reliance by Administrative Agent, L/C Issuer and Lenders. The Administrative Agent, the L/C Issuers and the Lenders shall be
entitled to rely and act upon any notices (including telephonic or electronic Revolving Committed Loan Notices, Revolving Swing Line Loan
Notices, New Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notices, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan Notices, Used Vehicle Floorplan
Committed Loan Notices, Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan Notices, Letter of Credit Applications, and Conversion Notices)
purportedly given by or on behalf of any Borrower even if (i) such notices were not made in a manner specified herein, were incomplete or
were not preceded or followed by any other form of notice specified herein, or (ii) the terms thereof, as understood by the recipient, varied from
any confirmation thereof. The Company and each Borrower shall indemnify the Administrative Agent, each L/C Issuer, each Lender and the
Related Parties of each of them from all losses, costs, expenses and liabilities resulting from the reliance by such Person on each notice
purportedly given by or on behalf of the Company or any Borrower. All telephonic notices to and other telephonic communications with the
Administrative Agent may be recorded by the Administrative Agent, and each of the parties hereto hereby consents to such recording.
10.03
No Waiver; Cumulative Remedies; Enforcement. No failure by any Lender, any L/C Issuer or the Administrative Agent to
exercise, and no delay by any such Person in exercising, any right, remedy, power or privilege hereunder or under any other Loan Document
shall operate as a waiver thereof; nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right, remedy, power or privilege hereunder or under any other
Loan Document preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the exercise of any other right, remedy, power or privilege. The rights,
remedies, powers and privileges herein provided , and provided under each other Loan Document, are cumulative and not exclusive of any
rights, remedies, powers and privileges provided by law.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein or in any other Loan Document, the authority to enforce rights and remedies
hereunder and under the other Loan Documents against the Loan Parties or any of them shall be vested exclusively in, and all actions and
proceedings at law in connection
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with such enforcement shall be instituted and maintained exclusively by, the Administrative Agent in accordance with Section 8.02 or 8.04 for
the benefit of all the Lenders and the L/C Issuers; provided, however, that the foregoing shall not prohibit (a) the Administrative Agent from
exercising on its own behalf the rights and remedies that inure to its benefit (solely in its capacity as Administrative Agent) hereunder and
under the other Loan Documents, (b) any L/C Issuer from exercising the rights and remedies that inure to its benefit (solely in its capacity as
L/C Issuer) hereunder and under the other Loan Documents, (c) Bank of America as the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender or the Used
Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender from exercising the rights and remedies that inure to its benefit (solely in its capacity as Swing Line
Lender) hereunder and under the other Loan Documents, (d) any Lender from exercising setoff rights in accordance with Section 10.08 (subject
to the terms of Section 2.21), or (e) any Lender from filing proofs of claim or appearing and filing pleadings on its own behalf during the
pendency of a proceeding relative to any Loan Party under any Debtor Relief Law; and provided, further, that if at any time there is no Person
acting as Administrative Agent hereunder and under the other Loan Documents, then (i) the Required Lenders shall have the rights otherwise
ascribed to the Administrative Agent pursuant to Section 8.02 or 8.04 and (ii) in addition to the matters set forth in clauses (b), (c), (d) and (e)
of the preceding proviso and subject to Section 2.21, any Lender may, with the consent of the Required Lenders, enforce any rights and
remedies available to it and as authorized by the Required Lenders.
10.04
Expenses; Indemnity; Damage Waiver.
(a)
Costs and Expenses. The Company and each Borrower (jointly and severally) shall pay (i) all reasonable out-of-pocket
expenses incurred by the Administrative Agent and its Affiliates (including the reasonable fees, charges and disbursements of one law firm
acting as outside counsel for the Administrative Agent and one law firm acting as local counsel in each jurisdiction where necessary), in
connection with the syndication of the credit facilities provided for herein, the preparation, negotiation, execution, delivery and administration
of this Agreement and the other Loan Documents or any amendments, modifications or waivers of the provisions hereof or thereof (whether or
not the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby shall be consummated), (ii) all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred by any L/C
Issuer in connection with the issuance, amendment, reinstatement or renewal or extension of any Letter of Credit or any demand for payment
thereunder and (iii) all out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the Administrative Agent, any Lender or any L/C Issuer (including the fees, charges
and disbursements of any counsel for the Administrative Agent, any Lender or any L/C Issuer), in connection with the enforcement or
protection of its rights (A) in connection with this Agreement and the other Loan Documents, including its rights under this Section, or (B) in
connection with the Loans made or Letters of Credit issued hereunder, including all such out of pocket expenses incurred during any workout,
restructuring or negotiations in respect of such Loans or Letters of Credit.
(b)
Indemnification by the Borrowers. The Company and each Borrower (jointly and severally) shall indemnify the Administrative
Agent (and any sub-agent thereof), the Arranger, each Lender and each L/C Issuer, and each Related Party of any of the foregoing Persons
(each such Person being called an “Indemnitee”) against, and hold each Indemnitee harmless from, any and all losses, claims, damages,
liabilities and related expenses (but limited, in the case of legal fees and expenses, to the reasonable and documented fees, disbursements and
other charges of (i) one counsel for the Administrative Agent and Bank of America, as Arranger, taken together, (ii) one counsel for the
Lenders and the L/C Issuers, taken together, (iii) if the Administrative Agent deems it necessary, one local counsel in each relevant jurisdiction,
and (iv) in the case of any actual or perceived conflict of interest with respect to any of the counsel identified in clauses (i) through (iii) above,
one additional counsel for each group of affected persons similarly situated, taken as a whole (which in the case of clause (iii) will, if the
Administrative Agent deems it necessary, allow for up to one additional counsel in each relevant jurisdiction)), incurred by any Indemnitee or
asserted against any Indemnitee by any third party or by the Company or any other Loan Party arising out of, in connection with, or as a result
of (i) the execution or delivery of this Agreement, any other Loan Document or any agreement or instrument contemplated hereby or thereby
(including, without limitation, the Indemnitee’s reliance on any Communication executed using an Electronic Signature, or in the form of an
Electronic Record), the performance by the
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parties hereto of their respective obligations hereunder or thereunder, the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby, or,
in the case of the Administrative Agent (and any sub-agent thereof) and its Related Parties only, the administration of this Agreement and the
other Loan Documents (including in respect of any matters addressed in Section 3.01), (ii) any Commitment, Loan or Letter of Credit or the use
or proposed use of the proceeds therefrom (including any refusal by the applicable L/C Issuer to honor a demand for payment under a Letter of
Credit if the documents presented in connection with such demand do not strictly comply with the terms of such Letter of Credit), (iii) any
actual or alleged presence or release of Hazardous Materials on or from any property owned or operated by the Company, any Borrower or any
of its Subsidiaries, or any Environmental Liability related in any way to the Company, any Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries, or (iv) any
actual or prospective claim, litigation, investigation or proceeding relating to any of the foregoing, whether based on contract, tort or any other
theory, whether brought by a third party or by the Company or any other Loan Party, and regardless of whether any Indemnitee is a party
thereto; provided that such indemnity shall not, as to any Indemnitee, be available to the extent that such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or
related expenses (x) are determined by a court of competent jurisdiction by final and nonappealable judgment to have resulted from the gross
negligence or willful misconduct of such Indemnitee, (y) result from a claim brought by the Company or any other Loan Party against an
Indemnitee for breach in bad faith of such Indemnitee’s obligations hereunder or under any other Loan Document, if the Company or such
other Loan Party has obtained a final and nonappealable judgment in its favor on such claim as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction,
or (z) arise out of a dispute solely between or among Indemnitees that does not involve an act or omission by any Loan Party or any Loan
Party’s Affiliates, other than any action, suit, proceeding or claim against any Indemnitee in its capacity or in fulfilling its role as an agent,
arranger, L/C issuer, swing lender or similar role under hereunder or under any other Loan Document. Without limiting the provisions of
Section 3.01(c), this Section 10.04(b) shall not apply with respect to Taxes other than any Taxes that represent losses, claims, damages, etc.
arising from any non-Tax claim.
(c)
Reimbursement by Lenders. To the extent that the Company or any Borrower for any reason fails to indefeasibly pay any
amount required under subsection (a) or (b) of this Section to be paid by it to the Administrative Agent (or any sub-agent thereof), any L/C
Issuer, any Swing Line Lender or any Related Party of any of the foregoing, each Lender severally agrees to pay to the Administrative Agent
(or any such sub-agent), such L/C Issuer, such Swing Line Lender or such Related Party, as the case may be, such Lender’s pro rata share
(determined as of the time that the applicable unreimbursed expense or indemnity payment is sought based on each Lender’s share of the Total
Credit Exposure at such time) of such unpaid amount (including any such unpaid amount in respect of a claim asserted by such Lender), such
payment to be made severally among them based on such Lenders’ Applicable Percentage (determined as of the time that the applicable
unreimbursed expense or indemnity payment is sought) of such unpaid amount, provided that the unreimbursed expense or indemnified loss,
claim, damage, liability or related expense, as the case may be, was incurred by or asserted against the Administrative Agent (or any such sub-
agent) or such L/C Issuer or such Swing Line Lender in its capacity as such, or against any Related Party of any of the foregoing acting for the
Administrative Agent (or any such sub-agent) or such L/C Issuer or such Swing Line Lender in connection with such capacity. The obligations
of the Lenders under this subsection (c) are subject to the provisions of Section 2.20(d).
(d)
Waiver of Consequential Damages, Etc. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, neither the Company nor any
Borrower shall assert, and each of the Company and each Borrower hereby waives, and acknowledges that no other Person shall have, any
claim against any Indemnitee, on any theory of liability, for special, indirect, consequential or punitive damages (as opposed to direct or actual
damages) arising out of, in connection with, or as a result of, this Agreement, any other Loan Document or any agreement or instrument
contemplated hereby, the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby, any Loan or Letter of Credit or the use of the proceeds thereof. No
Indemnitee referred to in subsection (b) above shall be liable for any damages arising from the use by unintended recipients of any information
or other materials distributed to such unintended recipients by such Indemnitee through telecommunications, electronic or other information
transmission systems in connection with this Agreement or the other Loan Documents or the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby other
than for direct or actual damages resulting from the gross negligence or willful misconduct of such Indemnitee as determined by a final and
nonappealable judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction.
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(e)
Payments. All amounts due under this Section shall be payable not later than ten Business Days after demand therefor.
(f)
Survival. The agreements in this Section and the indemnity provisions of Section 10.02(e) shall survive the resignation of the
Administrative Agent, any L/C Issuer, Bank of America as the Revolving Swing Line Lender, the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender
and the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, the replacement of any Lender, the termination of the Aggregate Commitments and the
repayment, satisfaction or discharge of all the other Obligations.
10.05
Payments Set Aside. To the extent that any payment by or on behalf of the Company or any Borrower is made to the
Administrative Agent, any L/C Issuer or any Lender, or the Administrative Agent, any L/C Issuer or any Lender exercises its right of setoff,
and such payment or the proceeds of such setoff or any part thereof is subsequently invalidated, declared to be fraudulent or preferential, set
aside or required (including pursuant to any settlement entered into by the Administrative Agent, such L/C Issuer or such Lender in its
discretion) to be repaid to a trustee, receiver or any other party, in connection with any proceeding under any Debtor Relief Law or otherwise,
then (a) to the extent of such recovery, the obligation or part thereof originally intended to be satisfied shall be revived and continued in full
force and effect as if such payment had not been made or such setoff had not occurred, and (b) each Lender and each L/C Issuer severally
agrees to pay to the Administrative Agent upon demand its applicable share (without duplication) of any amount so recovered from or repaid by
the Administrative Agent, plus interest thereon from the date of such demand to the date such payment is made at a rate per annum equal to the
Federal Funds Rate from time to time in effect. The obligations of the Lenders and the L/C Issuers under clause (b) of the preceding sentence
shall survive the payment in full of the Obligations and the termination of this Agreement.
10.06
Successors and Assigns.
(a)
Successors and Assigns Generally. The provisions of this Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the
parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns permitted hereby, except that neither the Company nor any other Loan Party may
assign or otherwise transfer any of its rights or obligations hereunder without the prior written consent of the Administrative Agent and each
Lender and no Lender may assign or otherwise transfer any of its rights or obligations hereunder except (i) to an assignee in accordance with
the provisions of subsection (b) of this Section, (ii) by way of participation in accordance with the provisions of subsection (d) of this Section,
or (iii) by way of pledge or assignment of a security interest subject to the restrictions of subsection (f) of this Section (and any other attempted
assignment or transfer by any party hereto shall be null and void). Nothing in this Agreement, expressed or implied, shall be construed to confer
upon any Person (other than the parties hereto, their respective successors and assigns permitted hereby, Participants to the extent provided in
subsection (d) of this Section and, to the extent expressly contemplated hereby, the Related Parties of each of the Administrative Agent, the L/C
Issuers and the Lenders) any legal or equitable right, remedy or claim under or by reason of this Agreement.
(b)
Assignments by Lenders. Any Lender may at any time assign to one or more Eligible Assignees all or a portion of its rights and
obligations under this Agreement (including all or a portion of its Revolving Commitment and the Revolving Loans at the time owing to it
(including for purposes of this subsection (b), participations in L/C Obligations and in Revolving Swing Line Loans) or its New Vehicle
Floorplan Commitment and the New Vehicle Floorplan Loans at the time owing to it (including for purposes of this subsection (b),
participations in New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans), or its Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitment and the Used Vehicle Floorplan Loans
at the time owing to it (including for purposes of this subsection (b), participations in Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans) (such
Lender’s portion of Loans, Commitments and risk participations with respect to an Applicable Facility being referred to in this Section 10.06 as
its “Applicable Share”); provided that any such assignment shall be subject to the following conditions:
(i)
Minimum Amounts.
(A)
in the case of an assignment of the entire remaining amount of the assigning Lender’s Commitment under any
Applicable Facility and the Loans at the time
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owing to it under such Applicable Facility or in the case of an assignment to a Lender, an Affiliate of a Lender or an Approved
Fund, no minimum amount need be assigned; and
(B)
in any case not described in subsection (b)(i)(A) of this Section, the aggregate amount of the Commitment
(which for this purpose includes Loans outstanding thereunder) or, if the Commitment is not then in effect, the principal
outstanding balance of the Loans of the assigning Lender subject to each such assignment, determined as of the date the
Assignment and Assumption with respect to such assignment is delivered to the Administrative Agent or, if “Trade Date” is
specified in the Assignment and Assumption, as of the Trade Date, shall not be less than $5,000,000 unless each of the
Administrative Agent and, so long as no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Company otherwise consents
(each such consent not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed); provided, however, that concurrent assignments to members
of an Assignee Group and concurrent assignments from members of an Assignee Group to a single Eligible Assignee (or to an
Eligible Assignee and members of its Assignee Group) will be treated as a single assignment for purposes of determining
whether such minimum amount has been met.
(ii)
Proportionate Amounts. Each partial assignment shall be made as an assignment of a proportionate part of all the
assigning Lender’s rights and obligations under this Agreement with respect to the Loans and Commitments assigned (i.e. if a Lender
assigns 25% of its Revolving Facility Commitment, such Lender must also simultaneously assign 25% of its New Vehicle Floorplan
Commitment and 25% of its Used Vehicle Floorplan Commitment); and each assignment (whether partial or total) shall be allocated on
a pro rata basis among the assigning Lender’s Loans and Commitments under each of the Facilities; except that this clause (ii) shall not
apply to rights in respect of the Revolving Swing Line Lender’s, Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender’s or New Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender’s rights and obligations in respect of its applicable Swing Line Loans.
(iii)
Required Consents. No consent shall be required for any assignment except to the extent required by subsection (b)(i)
(B) of this Section and, in addition:
(A)
the consent of the Company (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed) shall be required unless
(1) an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing at the time of such assignment or (2) such assignment is to a Lender, an
Affiliate of a Lender or an Approved Fund; provided that the Company shall be deemed to have consented to any such
assignment unless it shall object thereto by written notice to the Administrative Agent within ten (10) Business Days after
having received notice thereof;
(B)
the consent of the Administrative Agent (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed) shall be
required if such assignment is to a Person that is not a Lender, an Affiliate of such Lender or an Approved Fund with respect to
such Lender;
(C)
the consent of the L/C Issuers (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed) shall be required for
any assignment that increases the obligation of the assignee to participate in exposure under one or more Letters of Credit
(whether or not then outstanding); and
(D)
the consent of the applicable Swing Line Lender (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed)
shall be required for any assignment in respect of any Applicable Facility.
(iv)
Assignment and Assumption. The parties to each assignment shall execute and deliver to the Administrative Agent an
Assignment and Assumption, together with a processing and recordation fee in the amount of $3,500; provided, however, that the
Administrative Agent may, in its sole discretion, elect to waive such processing and recordation fee in the case of any
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assignment. The assignee, if it is not a Lender, shall deliver to the Administrative Agent an Administrative Questionnaire.
(v)
No Assignment to Certain Persons. No such assignment shall be made (A) to the Company or any of the Company’s
Subsidiaries, (B) to any Defaulting Lender or any of its Subsidiaries, or (C) any competitor of the Company which has been identified
in writing by the Company in a document that has been posted on a site maintained by the Administrative Agent and available to all of
the Lenders prior to assignor’s and assignee’s execution of the applicable Assignment and Assumption (any such Person, a
“Competitor”), or any Person who, upon becoming a Lender hereunder, would constitute any of the foregoing Persons described in this
clause (B), or (C) to a natural person (or a holding company investment vehicle or trust for, or owned and operated for the primary
benefit of a natural person). The Administrative Agent shall have no responsibility for determining whether any assignee is a
Competitor.
(vi)
Representation Regarding Competitors. The Assignment and Assumption shall contain a representation and warranty
(A) from the assignor that the assignee is not a Competitor and (B) from the assignee that it is not primarily engaged in the business of
owning or operating automobile dealerships.
(vii)
Certain Additional Payments. In connection with any assignment of rights and obligations of any Defaulting Lender
hereunder, no such assignment shall be effective unless and until, in addition to the other conditions thereto set forth herein, the parties
to the assignment shall make such additional payments to the Administrative Agent in an aggregate amount sufficient, upon
distribution thereof as appropriate (which may be outright payment, purchases by the assignee of participations or subparticipations, or
other compensating actions, including funding, with the consent of the Company and the Administrative Agent, the applicable pro rata
share of Loans previously requested but not funded by the Defaulting Lender, to each of which the applicable assignee and assignor
hereby irrevocably consent), to (x) pay and satisfy in full all payment liabilities then owed by such Defaulting Lender to the
Administrative Agent, any L//C Issuer or any Lender hereunder (and interest accrued thereon) and (y) acquire (and fund as appropriate)
its full pro rata share of all Loans and participations in Letters of Credit and Swing Line Loans in accordance with its Applicable
Percentage. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that any assignment of rights and obligations of any Defaulting Lender
hereunder shall become effective under applicable Law without compliance with the provisions of this paragraph, then the assignee of
such interest shall be deemed to be a Defaulting Lender for all purposes of this Agreement until such compliance occurs.
Subject to acceptance and recording thereof by the Administrative Agent pursuant to subsection (c) of this Section, from and after the
effective date specified in each Assignment and Assumption, the Eligible Assignee thereunder shall be a party to this Agreement and, to the
extent of the interest assigned by such Assignment and Assumption, have the rights and obligations of a Lender under this Agreement, and the
assigning Lender thereunder shall, to the extent of the interest assigned by such Assignment and Assumption, be released from its obligations
under this Agreement (and, in the case of an Assignment and Assumption covering all of the assigning Lender’s rights and obligations under
this Agreement, such Lender shall cease to be a party hereto) but shall continue to be entitled to the benefits of Sections 3.01, 3.04, and 10.04
with respect to facts and circumstances occurring prior to the effective date of such assignment; provided, that except to the extent otherwise
expressly agreed by the affected parties, no assignment by a Defaulting Lender will constitute a waiver or release of any claim of any party
hereunder arising from that Lender’s having been a Defaulting Lender. Upon request, each Borrower (at its expense) shall execute and deliver a
Revolving Note, New Vehicle Floorplan Note and Used Vehicle Floorplan Note to the assignee Lender. Any assignment or transfer by a Lender
of rights or obligations under this Agreement that does not comply with this subsection shall be treated for purposes of this Agreement as a sale
by such Lender of a participation in such rights and obligations in accordance with subsection (d) of this Section.
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(c)
Register. The Administrative Agent, acting solely for this purpose as an agent of the Company (and such agency being solely
for tax purposes), shall maintain at the Administrative Agent’s Office a copy of each Assignment and Assumption delivered to it (or the
equivalent thereof in electronic form) and a register for the recordation of the names and addresses of the Lenders, and the Commitments of,
and principal amounts (and stated interest) of the Loans and L/C Obligations owing to, each Lender pursuant to the terms hereof from time to
time (the “Register”). The entries in the Register shall be conclusive absent manifest error, and the Company, the Administrative Agent and the
Lenders shall treat each Person whose name is recorded in the Register pursuant to the terms hereof as a Lender hereunder for all purposes of
this Agreement. In addition, the Administrative Agent shall maintain on the Register information regarding the designation, and revocation of
designation, of any Lender as a Defaulting Lender. The Register shall be available for inspection by each of the Borrowers, any Lender and any
L/C Issuer, at any reasonable time and from time to time upon reasonable prior notice.
(d)
Participations. Any Lender may at any time, without the consent of, or notice to, the Company, any Borrower, the Revolving
Swing Line Lender, the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, any L/C Issuer or the
Administrative Agent, sell participations to any Person (other than (w) a Defaulting Lender, (x) a natural person or a holding company
investment vehicle or trust for, or owned and operated for the primary benefit of a natural person, (y) the Company or any of the Company’s
Affiliates or Subsidiaries or (z) any Competitor of the Company which has been identified in writing by the Company in a document that has
been made available to all of the Lenders) (each, a “Participant”) in all or a portion of such Lender’s rights and/or obligations under this
Agreement (including all or a portion of its Commitment and/or the Loans (including such Lender’s participations in L/C Obligations,
Revolving Swing Line Loans, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans and/or Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans) owing to it);
provided that (i) such Lender’s obligations under this Agreement shall remain unchanged, (ii) such Lender shall remain solely responsible to
the other parties hereto for the performance of such obligations and (iii) the Company, the Borrowers, the Administrative Agent, the Lenders
and the L/C Issuers shall continue to deal solely and directly with such Lender in connection with such Lender’s rights and obligations under
this Agreement. For the avoidance of doubt, each Lender shall be responsible for the indemnity under Section 10.04(c) without regard to the
existence of any participation. The Administrative Agent shall have no responsibility for determining whether any Participant is a Competitor.
Any agreement or instrument pursuant to which a Lender sells such a participation shall provide that such Lender shall retain the sole
right to enforce this Agreement and to approve any amendment, modification or waiver of any provision of this Agreement and shall contain a
representation and warranty (A) from the Lender selling the participation that the prospective participant is not a Competitor and (B) from the
prospective participant that it is not primarily engaged in the business of owning or operating automobile dealerships; provided that such
agreement or instrument may provide that such Lender will not, without the consent of the Participant, agree to any amendment, waiver or
other modification described in the first proviso to Section 10.01 that affects such Participant. Subject to subsection (e) of this Section, the
Company agrees that each Participant shall be entitled to the benefits of Sections 3.01 and 3.04 to the same extent as if it were a Lender and had
acquired its interest by assignment pursuant to subsection (b) of this Section (it being understood that the documentation required under Section
3.01(e) shall be delivered to the Lender who sells the participation) to the same extent as if it were a Lender and had acquired its interest by
assignment pursuant to subsection (b) of this Section; provided that such Participant (A) agrees to be subject to the provisions of Sections 3.05
and 10.13 as if it were an assignee under subsection (b) of this Section and (B) shall not be entitled to receive any greater payment under
Sections 3.01 or 3.04, with respect to any participation, than the Lender from whom it acquired the applicable participation would have been
entitled to receive, except to the extent such entitlement to receive a greater payment results from a Change in Law that occurs after the
Participant acquired the applicable participation. Each Lender that sells a participation agrees, at the Borrowers’ request and expense, to use
reasonable efforts to cooperate with the Borrowers to effectuate the provisions of Section 3.05 with respect to any Participant. To the extent
permitted by law, each Participant also shall be entitled to the benefits of Section 10.08 as though it were a Lender; provided that such
Participant
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agrees to be subject to Section 2.21 as though it were a Lender. Each Lender that sells a participation shall, acting solely for this purpose as a
non-fiduciary agent of the Borrower, maintain a register on which it enters the name and address of each Participant and the principal amounts
(and stated interest) of each Participant’s interest in the Loans or other obligations under the Loan Documents (the “Participant Register”);
provided that no Lender shall have any obligation to disclose all or any portion of the Participant Register (including the identity of any
Participant or any information relating to a Participant's interest in any commitments, loans, letters of credit or its other obligations under any
Loan Document) to any Person except to the extent that such disclosure is necessary to establish that such commitment, loan, letter of credit or
other obligation is in registered form under Section 5f.103-1(c) of the United States Treasury Regulations. The entries in the Participant
Register shall be conclusive absent manifest error, and such Lender shall treat each Person whose name is recorded in the Participant Register
as the owner of such participation for all purposes of this Agreement notwithstanding any notice to the contrary. For the avoidance of doubt, the
Administrative Agent (in its capacity as Administrative Agent) shall have no responsibility for maintaining a Participant Register.
(e)
Limitations upon Participant Rights. A Participant shall not be entitled to receive any greater payment under Section 3.01 or
3.04 than the applicable Lender would have been entitled to receive with respect to the participation sold to such Participant, unless the sale of
the participation to such Participant is made with the Company’s prior written consent. A Participant that would be a Foreign Lender if it were a
Lender shall not be entitled to the benefits of Section 3.01 unless the Company is notified of the participation sold to such Participant and such
Participant agrees, for the benefit of the Company, to comply with Section 3.01(e) as though it were a Lender.
(f)
Certain Pledges. Any Lender may at any time pledge or assign a security interest in all or any portion of its rights under this
Agreement (including under its Note, if any) to secure obligations of such Lender, including any pledge or assignment to secure obligations to a
Federal Reserve Bank; provided that no such pledge or assignment shall release such Lender from any of its obligations hereunder or substitute
any such pledgee or assignee for such Lender as a party hereto.
(g)
Resignation as L/C Issuer, Revolving Swing Line Lender, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender or Used Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender after Assignment. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, (i) if at any time Bank of America
assigns all of its Commitment and Loans pursuant to subsection (b) above, Bank of America may, (A) upon 30 days’ notice to the Company
and the Lenders, resign as an L/C Issuer and/or (B) upon 30 days’ notice to the Company, resign as Revolving Swing Line Lender and/or (C)
upon 30 days’ notice to the Company, resign as New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and/or (D) upon 30 days’ notice to the Company,
resign as Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, and (ii) if any time any other L/C Issuer assigns all of its Commitment and Loans
pursuant to subsection (b) above, such L/C Issuer may, upon 30 days’ notice to the Company and the Lenders, resign as an L/C Issuer. In the
event of any such resignation as L/C Issuer, Revolving Swing Line Lender, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender or Used Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender, the Company shall be entitled to appoint from among the Lenders a successor L/C Issuer, Revolving Swing Line
Lender, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender or Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender hereunder; provided, however, that no
failure by the Company to appoint any such successor shall affect the resignation of Bank of America or any other Person as L/C Issuer,
Revolving Swing Line Lender, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender or Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, as the case may be. If
Bank of America or any other Person resigns as L/C Issuer, it shall retain all the rights, powers, privileges and duties of an L/C Issuer hereunder
with respect to all Letters of Credit outstanding as of the effective date of its resignation as an L/C Issuer and all L/C Obligations with respect
thereto (including the right to require the Lenders to make Daily Simple SOFR Committed Loans or fund risk participations in Unreimbursed
Amounts pursuant to Section 2.03(c)). If Bank of America resigns as Revolving Swing Line Lender, it shall retain all the rights of the
Revolving Swing Line Lender provided for hereunder with respect to Revolving Swing Line Loans made by it and outstanding as of the
effective date of such resignation, including the right to require the Revolving Lenders to make Daily Simple SOFR Committed Loans or fund
risk participations in outstanding Revolving Swing Line Loans pursuant to Section 2.04(c). If Bank of America resigns as New Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender, it shall
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retain all the rights of the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender provided for hereunder with respect to New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Loans made by it and outstanding as of the effective date of such resignation, including the right to require the New Vehicle Floorplan Lenders
to make Daily Simple SOFR Committed Loans or fund risk participations in outstanding New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans pursuant to
Section 2.07(d). If Bank of America resigns as Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender, it shall retain all the rights of the Used Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender provided for hereunder with respect to Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans made by it and outstanding as
of the effective date of such resignation, including the right to require the Used Vehicle Floorplan Lenders to make Daily Simple SOFR
Committed Loans or fund risk participations in outstanding Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loans pursuant to Section 2.12(c). Upon the
appointment of a successor L/C Issuer, Revolving Swing Line Lender, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender and/or Used Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Lender, (a) such successor shall succeed to and become vested with all of the rights, powers, privileges and duties of the
retiring L/C Issuer, Revolving Swing Line Lender, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender or Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender,
as the case may be, and (b) the successor L/C Issuer shall issue letters of credit in substitution for the Letters of Credit, if any, outstanding at the
time of such succession or make other arrangements satisfactory to Bank of America or such other applicable retiring L/C Issuer to effectively
assume the obligations of Bank of America or the applicable retiring L/C Issuer with respect to such Letters of Credit.
(h)
For the avoidance of doubt, with respect to any assignee or participant that becomes a Competitor after the applicable date such
Person becomes a Lender, (x) such assignee shall not retroactively be disqualified from becoming a Lender or participant and (y) the execution
by the Company of an Assignment and Assumption with respect to such assignee will not by itself result in such assignee no longer being
considered a Competitor. Any assignment in violation of this clause (h) shall not be void, but the other provisions of this clause (h) shall apply.
(i)
If any assignment is made to any Competitor without the Borrower’s prior consent in violation of Section 10.06(b)(v)
above, or if any Person becomes a Competitor after the applicable date such Person becomes a Lender, the Borrower may, at its sole
expense and effort, upon notice to the applicable Competitor and the Administrative Agent, (A) terminate any Commitment of such
Competitor and repay all obligations of the Borrowers owing to such Competitor in connection with such Commitment, plus accrued
interest, accrued fees and all other amounts payable to it hereunder and under the other Loan Documents and/or (B) require such
Competitor to assign and delegate, without recourse (in accordance with and subject to the restrictions contained in this Section 10.06),
all of its interest, rights and obligations under this Agreement and related Loan Documents to an Eligible Assignee that shall assume
such obligations at the lesser of (x) the principal amount thereof and (y) the amount that such Competitor paid to acquire such interests,
rights and obligations, in each case plus accrued interest, accrued fees and all other amounts (other than principal amounts) payable to
it hereunder and other the other Loan Documents; provided that (i) the Borrowers shall have paid to the Administrative Agent the
assignment fee (if any) specified in Section 10.06(b) and (ii) such assignment does not conflict with applicable Laws.
(ii)
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, Competitor (A) will not (x) have the right to
receive information, reports or other materials provided to Lenders by the Borrower, the Administrative Agent or any other Lender, (y)
attend or participate in meetings attended by the Lenders and the Administrative Agent, or (z) access any electronic site established for
the Lenders or confidential communications from counsel to or financial advisors of the Administrative Agent or the Lenders and (B)
(x) for purposes of any consent to any amendment, waiver or modification of, or any action under, and for the purpose of any direction
to the Administrative Agent or any Lender to undertake any action (or refrain from taking any action) under this Agreement or any
other Loan Document, each Competitor will be deemed to have consented in the same proportion as the Lenders that are not
Competitor consented to such matter, and (y) for purposes of voting on any plan of reorganization or plan of liquidation pursuant to any
Debtor Relief Laws (“Plan of Reorganization”), each Competitor party hereto hereby agrees (1) not to vote on such Plan of
Reorganization, (2) if such Competitor does vote on such Plan of Reorganization notwithstanding the restriction in the foregoing clause
(1), such vote will be deemed not to be in good faith and shall be “designated” pursuant to
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Section 1126(e) of the Bankruptcy Code (or any similar provision in any other Debtor Relief Laws), and such vote shall not be counted
in determining whether the applicable class has accepted or rejected such Plan of Reorganization in accordance with Section 1126(c) of
the Bankruptcy Code (or any similar provision in any other Debtor Relief Laws) and (3) not to contest any request by any party for a
determination by the Bankruptcy Court (or other applicable court of competent jurisdiction) effectuating the foregoing clause (2).
(i)
The Administrative Agent shall have the right, and the each Borrower hereby expressly authorizes the Administrative Agent, to
(A) post the list of Competitors provided by the Borrowers and any updates thereto from time to time (collectively, the “DQ List”) on the
Platform, including that portion of the Platform that is designated for “public side” Lenders or (B) provide the DQ List to each Lender
requesting the same.
10.07
Treatment of Certain Information; Confidentiality. Each of the Administrative Agent, the Lenders and the L/C Issuers
agrees to maintain the confidentiality of the Information (as defined below), except that Information may be disclosed (a) to its Affiliates, its
auditors and its Related Parties (it being understood that the Persons to whom such disclosure is made will be informed of the confidential
nature of such Information and instructed to keep such Information confidential), (b) to the extent required or requested by any regulatory
authority purporting to have jurisdiction over such Person or its Related Parties (including any self-regulatory authority, such as the National
Association of Insurance Commissioners), (c) to the extent required by applicable laws or regulations or by any subpoena or similar legal
process, (d) to any other party hereto, (e) in connection with the exercise of any remedies hereunder or under any other Loan Document or any
action or proceeding relating to this Agreement or any other Loan Document or the enforcement of rights hereunder or thereunder, (f) subject to
an agreement containing provisions substantially the same as those of this Section, to (i) any assignee of or Participant in, or any prospective
assignee of or Participant in, any of its rights or obligations under this Agreement or any Eligible Assignee invited to be a Lender pursuant to
Section 2.22(c) or (ii) any actual or prospective counterparty (or its Related Parties) to any swap or derivative transaction relating to any Loan
Party and its obligations (it being understood that the DQ List may be disclosed to any assignee or Participant, or prospective assignee or
Participant) , (g) on a confidential basis to (i) any rating agency in connection with rating the Company or its Subsidiaries or the credit facilities
provided hereunder or (ii) the CUSIP Service Bureau or any similar agency in connection with the issuance and monitoring of CUSIP numbers
or other market identifiers with respect to the credit facilities provided hereunder, (h) with the consent of the Company or (i) to the extent such
Information (x) becomes publicly available other than as a result of a breach of this Section, (y) becomes available to the Administrative Agent,
any Lender, any L/C Issuer or any of their respective Affiliates on a nonconfidential basis from a source other than the Company or (z) is
independently discovered or developed by a party hereto without utilizing any Information received from any Loan Party or violating the terms
of this Section 10.07. In addition, the Administrative Agent and the Lenders may disclose the existence of this Agreement and information
about this Agreement to market data collectors, similar service providers to the lending industry and service providers to the Administrative
Agent and the Lenders in connection with the administration of this Agreement, the other Loan Documents, and the Commitments. For
purposes of this Section, “Information” means all information received from the Company or any Subsidiary relating to Company or any
Subsidiary or any of their respective businesses, other than any such information that is available to the Administrative Agent, any Lender or
any L/C Issuer on a nonconfidential basis prior to disclosure by the Company or any Subsidiary, provided that, in the case of information
received from the Company or any Subsidiary after the date hereof, such information is clearly identified at the time of delivery as confidential.
Any Person required to maintain the confidentiality of Information as provided in this Section shall be considered to have complied with its
obligation to do so if such Person has exercised the same degree of care to maintain the confidentiality of such Information as such Person
would accord to its own confidential information.
Each of the Administrative Agent, the Lenders and the L/C Issuers acknowledges that (a) the Information may include material non-
public information concerning the Company or a Subsidiary, as the case may be, (b) it has developed compliance procedures regarding the use
of material non-public information and (c) it will handle such material non-public information in accordance with applicable Law, including
United States Federal and state securities Laws.
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10.08
Right of Setoff. If an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, each Lender, each L/C Issuer and each of their
respective Affiliates is hereby authorized at any time and from time to time, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, to set off and
apply any and all deposits (general or special, time or demand, provisional or final, in whatever currency) at any time held and other obligations
(in whatever currency) at any time owing by such Lender, such L/C Issuer or any such Affiliate to or for the credit or the account of the
Company or any Borrower against any and all of the obligations of the Company or any Borrower, as applicable, now or hereafter existing
under this Agreement or any other Loan Document to such Lender or such L/C Issuer or their respective Affiliates, irrespective of whether or
not such Lender, such L/C Issuer or Affiliate shall have made any demand under this Agreement or any other Loan Document and although
such obligations of the Company or such Borrower may be contingent or unmatured or are owed to a branch, office or Affiliate of such Lender
or such L/C Issuer different from the branch, office or Affiliate holding such deposit or obligated on such indebtedness; provided, that in the
event that any Defaulting Lender shall exercise any such right of setoff, (x) all amounts so set off shall be paid over immediately to the
Administrative Agent for further application in accordance with the provisions of Section 2.26 and, pending such payment, shall be segregated
by such Defaulting Lender from its other funds and deemed held in trust for the benefit of the Administrative Agent, the L/C Issuer and the
Lenders, and (y) the Defaulting Lender shall provide promptly to the Administrative Agent a statement describing in reasonable detail the
Obligations owing to such Defaulting Lender as to which it exercised such right of setoff. The rights of each Lender, each L/C Issuer and their
respective Affiliates under this Section are in addition to other rights and remedies (including other rights of setoff) that such Lender, such L/C
Issuer or their respective Affiliates may have. Each Lender and each L/C Issuer agrees to notify the Company and the Administrative Agent
promptly after any such setoff and application, provided that the failure to give such notice shall not affect the validity of such setoff and
application.
10.09
Interest Rate Limitation. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in any Loan Document, the interest paid or
agreed to be paid under the Loan Documents shall not exceed the maximum rate of non-usurious interest permitted by applicable Law (the
“Maximum Rate”). If the Administrative Agent or any Lender shall receive interest in an amount that exceeds the Maximum Rate, the excess
interest shall be applied to the principal of the Loans or, if it exceeds such unpaid principal, refunded to the Company. In determining whether
the interest contracted for, charged, or received by the Administrative Agent or a Lender exceeds the Maximum Rate, such Person may, to the
extent permitted by applicable Law, (a) characterize any payment that is not principal as an expense, fee, or premium rather than interest, (b)
exclude voluntary prepayments and the effects thereof, and (c) amortize, prorate, allocate, and spread in equal or unequal parts the total amount
of interest throughout the contemplated term of the Obligations hereunder.
10.10
Counterparts; Integration; Effectiveness. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts (and by different parties hereto
in different counterparts), each of which shall constitute an original, but all of which when taken together shall constitute a single contract. This
Agreement, and the other Loan Documents constitute the entire contract among the parties relating to the subject matter hereof and supersede
any and all previous agreements and understandings, oral or written, relating to the subject matter hereof. Except as provided in Section 4.01,
this Agreement shall become effective when it shall have been executed by the Administrative Agent and when the Administrative Agent shall
have received counterparts hereof that, when taken together, bear the signatures of each of the other parties hereto. Delivery of an executed
counterpart of a signature page of this Agreement by facsimile or other electronic imaging means (e.g. “pdf or “tif”) shall be effective as
delivery of a manually executed counterpart of this Agreement.
10.11
Survival of Representations and Warranties. All representations and warranties made hereunder and in any other Loan
Document or other document delivered pursuant hereto or thereto or in connection herewith or therewith shall survive the execution and
delivery hereof and thereof. Such representations and warranties have been or will be relied upon by the Administrative Agent and each Lender,
regardless of any investigation made by the Administrative Agent or any Lender or on their behalf and notwithstanding that the Administrative
Agent or any Lender may have had notice or knowledge of any Default at the time of any Credit Extension, and shall continue in full force and
effect as long as any Loan or any other Obligation hereunder shall remain unpaid or unsatisfied or any Letter of Credit shall remain
outstanding.
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10.12
Severability. If any provision of this Agreement or the other Loan Documents is held to be illegal, invalid or unenforceable,
(a) the legality, validity and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Agreement and the other Loan Documents shall not be affected or
impaired thereby and (b) the parties shall endeavor in good faith negotiations to replace the illegal, invalid or unenforceable provisions with
valid provisions the economic effect of which comes as close as possible to that of the illegal, invalid or unenforceable provisions. The
invalidity of a provision in a particular jurisdiction shall not invalidate or render unenforceable such provision in any other jurisdiction. Without
limiting the foregoing provisions of this Section 10.12, if and to the extent that the enforceability of any provisions in this Agreement relating
to Defaulting Lenders shall be limited by Debtor Relief Laws, as determined in good faith by the Administrative Agent, the L/C Issuers, the
Revolving Swing Line Lender, the New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender or the Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lenders, as
applicable, then such provisions shall be deemed to be in effect only to the extent not so limited.
10.13
Replacement of Lenders. If the Company or any other Borrower is entitled to replace a Lender pursuant to the provisions of
Section 3.05, or if any Lender is a Defaulting Lender or a Non-Consenting Lender or if any other circumstance exists hereunder that gives the
Borrowers the right to replace a Lender as a party hereto, then the Company may, at its sole expense and effort, upon notice to such Lender and
the Administrative Agent, require such Lender to assign and delegate, without recourse (in accordance with and subject to the restrictions
contained in, and consents required by, Section 10.06), all of its interests, rights (other than its existing rights to payments pursuant to Sections
3.01 and 3.04) and obligations under this Agreement and the related Loan Documents to an Eligible Assignee that shall assume such
obligations (which assignee may be another Lender, if a Lender accepts such assignment), provided that:
(a)
the Company shall have paid to the Administrative Agent the assignment fee specified in Section 10.06(b);
(b)
such Lender shall have received payment of an amount equal to 100% of the outstanding principal of its Loans and L/C
Advances, accrued interest thereon, accrued fees and all other amounts payable to it hereunder and under the other Loan Documents from the
assignee (to the extent of such outstanding principal and accrued interest and fees) or the Company (in the case of all other amounts);
(c)
in the case of any such assignment resulting from a claim for compensation under Section 3.04 or payments required to be
made pursuant to Section 3.01, such assignment will result in a reduction in such compensation or payments thereafter;
(d)
such assignment does not conflict with applicable Laws; and
(e)
in the case of an assignment resulting from a Lender becoming a Non-Consenting Lender, the applicable assignee shall have
consented to the applicable amendment, waiver or consent.
A Lender shall not be required to make any such assignment or delegation if, prior thereto, as a result of a waiver by such Lender or
otherwise, the circumstances entitling the Company to require such assignment and delegation cease to apply.
Each party hereto agrees that (a) an assignment required pursuant to this Section 10.13 may be effected pursuant to an Assignment and
Assumption executed by the Company, the Administrative Agent and the assignee and (b) the Lender required to make such assignment need
not be a party thereto in order for such assignment to be effective and shall be deemed to have consented to an be bound by the terms thereof;
provided that, following the effectiveness of any such assignment, the other parties to such assignment agree to execute and deliver such
documents necessary to evidence such assignment as reasonably requested by the applicable Lender, provided, further that any such documents
shall be without recourse to or warranty by the parties thereto.
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Notwithstanding anything in this Section 10.13 to the contrary, (i) any Lender that acts as an L/C Issuer may not be replaced hereunder
at any time it has any Letter of Credit outstanding hereunder unless arrangements satisfactory to such Lender (including the furnishing of a
backstop standby letter of credit in form and substance, and issued by an issuer, reasonably satisfactory to such L/C Issuer or the depositing of
cash collateral into a cash collateral account in amounts and pursuant to arrangements reasonably satisfactory to such L/C Issuer) have been
made with respect to such outstanding Letter of Credit and (ii) the Lender that acts as the Administrative Agent may not be replaced hereunder
except in accordance with the terms of Section 9.06.
10.14
Governing Law; Jurisdiction; Etc.
(a)
GOVERNING LAW. THIS AGREEMENT AND THE OTHER LOAN DOCUMENTS AND ANY CLAIMS,
CONTROVERSY, DISPUTE OR CAUSE OF ACTION (WHETHER IN CONTRACT OR TORT OR OTHERWISE) BASED UPON,
ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT OR ANY OTHER LOAN DOCUMENT (EXCEPT, AS TO ANY OTHER
LOAN DOCUMENT, AS EXPRESSLY SET FORTH THEREIN) AND THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY AND
THEREBY SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAW OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
(b)
SUBMISSION
TO
JURISDICTION.
THE
COMPANY
AND
EACH
BORROWER
IRREVOCABLY
AND
UNCONDITIONALLY AGREES THAT IT WILL NOT COMMENCE ANY ACTION, LITIGATION OR PROCEEDING OF ANY KIND
OR DESCRIPTION, WHETHER IN LAW OR EQUITY, WHETHER IN CONTRACT OR IN TORT OR OTHERWISE, AGAINST THE
ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT, ANY LENDER, ANY L/C ISSUER, OR ANY RELATED PARTY OF THE FOREGOING IN ANY WAY
RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT OR ANY OTHER LOAN DOCUMENT OR THE TRANSACTIONS RELATING HERETO OR
THERETO, IN ANY FORUM OTHER THAN THE COURTS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK SITTING IN NEW YORK COUNTY AND
OF THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT OF THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK, AND ANY APPELLATE COURT
FROM ANY THEREOF, AND EACH OF THE PARTIES HERETO IRREVOCABLY AND UNCONDITIONALLY SUBMITS TO THE
JURISDICTION OF SUCH COURTS AND AGREES THAT ALL CLAIMS IN RESPECT OF ANY SUCH ACTION, LITIGATION OR
PROCEEDING MAY BE HEARD AND DETERMINED IN SUCH NEW YORK STATE COURT OR, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT
PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, IN SUCH FEDERAL COURT. EACH OF THE PARTIES HERETO AGREES THAT A FINAL
JUDGMENT IN ANY SUCH ACTION, LITIGATION OR PROCEEDING SHALL BE CONCLUSIVE AND MAY BE ENFORCED IN
OTHER JURISDICTIONS BY SUIT ON THE JUDGMENT OR IN ANY OTHER MANNER PROVIDED BY LAW. NOTHING IN THIS
AGREEMENT OR IN ANY OTHER LOAN DOCUMENT SHALL AFFECT ANY RIGHT THAT THE ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT, ANY
LENDER OR ANY L/C ISSUER MAY OTHERWISE HAVE TO BRING ANY ACTION OR PROCEEDING RELATING TO THIS
AGREEMENT OR ANY OTHER LOAN DOCUMENT AGAINST THE COMPANY OR ANY BORROWER OR ITS PROPERTIES IN
THE COURTS OF ANY JURISDICTION.
(c)
WAIVER OF VENUE. THE COMPANY AND EACH BORROWER IRREVOCABLY AND UNCONDITIONALLY
WAIVES, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, ANY OBJECTION THAT IT MAY NOW OR
HEREAFTER HAVE TO THE LAYING OF VENUE OF ANY ACTION OR PROCEEDING ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS
AGREEMENT OR ANY OTHER LOAN DOCUMENT IN ANY COURT REFERRED TO IN PARAGRAPH (B) OF THIS SECTION.
EACH OF THE PARTIES HERETO HEREBY IRREVOCABLY WAIVES, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE
LAW, THE DEFENSE OF AN INCONVENIENT FORUM TO THE MAINTENANCE OF SUCH ACTION OR PROCEEDING IN ANY
SUCH COURT.
(d)
SERVICE OF PROCESS. EACH PARTY HERETO IRREVOCABLY CONSENTS TO SERVICE OF PROCESS IN THE
MANNER PROVIDED FOR NOTICES IN SECTION 10.02.
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NOTHING IN THIS AGREEMENT WILL AFFECT THE RIGHT OF ANY PARTY HERETO TO SERVE PROCESS IN ANY OTHER
MANNER PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW.
10.15
Waiver of Jury Trial. EACH PARTY HERETO HEREBY IRREVOCABLY WAIVES, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT
PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, ANY RIGHT IT MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LEGAL PROCEEDING DIRECTLY
OR INDIRECTLY ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT OR ANY OTHER LOAN DOCUMENT OR THE
TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY OR THEREBY (WHETHER BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT OR ANY OTHER
THEORY). EACH PARTY HERETO (A) CERTIFIES THAT NO REPRESENTATIVE, AGENT OR ATTORNEY OF ANY OTHER
PERSON HAS REPRESENTED, EXPRESSLY OR OTHERWISE, THAT SUCH OTHER PERSON WOULD NOT, IN THE EVENT OF
LITIGATION, SEEK TO ENFORCE THE FOREGOING WAIVER AND (B) ACKNOWLEDGES THAT IT AND THE OTHER PARTIES
HERETO HAVE BEEN INDUCED TO ENTER INTO THIS AGREEMENT AND THE OTHER LOAN DOCUMENTS BY, AMONG
OTHER THINGS, THE MUTUAL WAIVERS AND CERTIFICATIONS IN THIS SECTION.
10.16
No Advisory or Fiduciary Responsibility. In connection with all aspects of each transaction contemplated hereby (including
in connection with any amendment, waiver or other modification hereof or of any other Loan Document), the Company and each other Loan
Party acknowledges and agrees, and acknowledges its Affiliates’ understanding, that: (i) (A) the arranging and other services regarding this
Agreement provided by the Administrative Agent, the Arranger and the Lenders are arm’s-length commercial transactions between the Loan
Parties and their respective Affiliates, on the one hand, and the Administrative Agent, the Arranger and the Lenders, on the other hand, (B) each
of the Company and each other Loan Party has consulted its own legal, accounting, regulatory and tax advisors to the extent it has deemed
appropriate, and (C) each of the Company and each other Loan Party is capable of evaluating, and understands and accepts, the terms, risks and
conditions of the transactions contemplated hereby and by the other Loan Documents; (ii) (A) the Administrative Agent, the Arranger and each
Lender is and has been acting solely as a principal and, except as expressly agreed in writing by the relevant parties, has not been, is not, and
will not be acting as an advisor, agent or fiduciary for the Company, any other Loan Party or any of their respective Affiliates, or any other
Person and (B) neither the Administrative Agent, the Arranger nor any Lender has any obligation to the Company, any other Loan Party or any
of their respective Affiliates with respect to the transactions contemplated hereby except those obligations expressly set forth herein and in the
other Loan Documents; and (iii) the Administrative Agent, the Arranger and the Lenders and their respective Affiliates may be engaged in a
broad range of transactions that involve interests that differ from those of the Company and the other Loan Parties and their respective
Affiliates, and neither the Administrative Agent, the Arranger nor any Lender has any obligation to disclose any of such interests to the
Company, any other Loan Party or any of their respective Affiliates. To the fullest extent permitted by law, each of the Company and each other
Loan Party hereby waives and releases any claims that it may have against the Administrative Agent, the Arranger or any Lender with respect
to any breach or alleged breach of agency or fiduciary duty in connection with any aspect of any transaction contemplated hereby.
10.17
Electronic Execution; Electronic Records; Counterparts. This Agreement, any Loan Document and any other
Communication, including Communications required to be in writing (including without limitation Assignment and Assumptions, amendments
or other modification modifications, Revolving Committed Loan Notices, Revolving Swing Line Loan Notices, New Vehicle Floorplan
Committed Loan Notices, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Loan Notices, Used Vehicle Floorplan Committed Loan Notices, Used Vehicle
Floorplan Swing Line Loan Notices, waivers and consents), may be in the form of an Electronic Record and may be executed using Electronic
Signatures. Each of the Loan Parties and each of the Administrative Agent, and the Lender Parties agrees that any Electronic Signature on or
associated with any Communication shall be valid and binding on such Person to the same extent as a manual, original signature, and that any
Communication entered into by Electronic Signature, will constitute the legal, valid and binding obligation of such Person enforceable against
such Person in accordance with the terms thereof to the same extent as if a manually executed original signature was delivered. Any
Communication may be executed in as many counterparts as necessary or convenient, including both paper and electronic counterparts, but all
such counterparts are one and the same Communication. For the avoidance of doubt, the authorization under this paragraph may include,
without limitation, use or acceptance of a manually signed paper Communication which has been
179
converted into electronic form (such as scanned into PDF format), or an electronically signed Communication converted into another format,
for transmission, delivery and/or retention. The Administrative Agent and each of the Lender Parties may, at its option, create one or more
copies of any Communication in the form of an imaged Electronic Record (“Electronic Copy”), which shall be deemed created in the ordinary
course of such Person’s business, and destroy the original paper document. All Communications in the form of an Electronic Record, including
an Electronic Copy, shall be considered an original for all purposes, and shall have the same legal effect, validity and enforceability as a paper
record. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, neither the Administrative Agent, any L/C Issuer nor any Swingline Lender
is under any obligation to accept an Electronic Signature in any form or in any format unless expressly agreed to by such Person pursuant to
procedures approved by it; provided, further, without limiting the foregoing, (a) to the extent the Administrative Agent, any L/C Issuer and/or
any Swingline Lender has agreed to accept such Electronic Signature, the Administrative Agent and each of the Lender Parties shall be entitled
to rely on any such Electronic Signature purportedly given by or on behalf of any Loan Party and/or any Lender Party without further
verification and (b) upon the request of the Administrative Agent or any Lender Party, any Electronic Signature shall be promptly followed by
such manually executed counterpart. For purposes hereof, “Electronic Record” and “Electronic Signature” shall have the meanings assigned to
them, respectively, by 15 USC §7006, as it may be amended from time to time.
Neither the Administrative Agent, any L/C Issuer nor any Swingline Lender shall be responsible for or have any duty to ascertain or
inquire into the sufficiency, validity, enforceability, effectiveness or genuineness of any Loan Document or any other agreement, instrument or
document (including, for the avoidance of doubt, in connection with the Administrative Agent’s, any L/C Issuer’s or any Swingline Lender’s
reliance on any Electronic Signature transmitted by telecopy, emailed .pdf or any other electronic means). The Administrative Agent, any L/C
Issuer and any Swingline Lender shall be entitled to rely on, and shall incur no liability under or in respect of this Agreement or any other Loan
Document by acting upon, any Communication (which writing may be a fax, any electronic message, Internet or intranet website posting or
other distribution or signed using an Electronic Signature) or any statement made to it orally or by telephone and believed by it to be genuine
and signed or sent or otherwise authenticated (whether or not such Person in fact meets the requirements set forth in the Loan Documents for
being the maker thereof).
Each of the Loan Parties and each Lender Party hereby waives (i) any argument, defense or right to contest the legal effect, validity or
enforceability of this Agreement or any other Loan Document based solely on the lack of paper original copies of this Agreement and/or such
other Loan Document, and (ii) waives any claim against the Administrative Agent, each Lender Party and each Related Party for any liabilities
arising solely from the Administrative Agent’s and/or any Lender Party’s reliance on or use of Electronic Signatures, including any liabilities
arising as a result of the failure of the Loan Parties to use any available security measures in connection with the execution, delivery or
transmission of any Electronic Signature.
10.18
USA PATRIOT Act. Each Lender that is subject to the Act (as hereinafter defined) and the Administrative Agent (for itself
and not on behalf of any Lender) hereby notifies the Company and the other Borrowers that pursuant to the requirements of the USA PATRIOT
Act (Title III of Pub. L. 107-56 (signed into law October 26, 2001)) (the “Act”), it is required to obtain, verify and record information that
identifies the Company and the other Borrowers, which information includes the name and address of the Company and the other Borrowers
and other information that will allow such Lender or the Administrative Agent, as applicable, to identify the Company and each other Borrower
in accordance with the Act. The Company and each other Borrower shall, promptly following a request by the Administrative Agent or any
Lender, provide all documentation and other information that the Administrative Agent or such Lender requests in order to comply with its
ongoing obligations under applicable “know your customer” and anti-money laundering rules and regulations, including the Act.
180
10.19
Designated Senior Debt. Each party acknowledges and agrees that the Indebtedness under the Loan Documents is
“Designated Senior Debt” (or any similar term) under, and as defined in, any agreements evidencing Subordinated Indebtedness.
10.20
Keepwell. Each Borrower that is a Qualified ECP Guarantor at the time the joint and several liability of any Specified Loan
Party (pursuant to Section 2.24 or 2.25, if applicable), or the Guaranty or the grant of a Lien under the Loan Documents, in each case, by any
Specified Loan Party, becomes effective with respect to any Swap Obligation, hereby jointly and severally, absolutely, unconditionally and
irrevocably undertakes to provide such funds or other support to each Specified Loan Party with respect to such Swap Obligation as may be
needed by such Specified Loan Party from time to time to honor all of its obligations under the Loan Documents in respect of such Swap
Obligation (but, in each case, only up to the maximum amount of such liability that can be hereby incurred without rendering such Borrower’s
obligations and undertakings under this Article X voidable under applicable law relating to fraudulent conveyance or fraudulent transfer, and
not for any greater amount). The obligations and undertakings of each Borrower under this Section shall remain in full force and effect until the
Obligations have been indefeasibly paid and performed in full. Each Borrower intends this Section to constitute, and this Section shall be
deemed to constitute, a guarantee of the obligations of, and a “keepwell, support or other agreement” for the benefit of, each Specified Loan
Party for all purposes of the Commodity Exchange Act.
10.21
Acknowledgement and Consent to Bail-In of Affected Financial Institutions. Solely to the extent any Lender or L/C Issuer
that is an Affected Financial Institution is a party to this Agreement and notwithstanding anything to the contrary in any Loan Document or in
any other agreement, arrangement or understanding among any such parties, each party hereto acknowledges that any liability of any Lender or
L/C Issuer that is an Affected Financial Institution arising under any Loan Document, to the extent such liability is unsecured, may be subject
to the Write-Down and Conversion Powers of the applicable Resolution Authority and agrees and consents to, and acknowledges and agrees to
be bound by:
(a)
the application of any Write-Down and Conversion Powers by the applicable Resolution Authority to any such liabilities
arising hereunder which may be payable to it by any Lender or L/C Issuer that is an Affected Financial Institution; and
(b)
the effects of any Bail-In Action on any such liability, including, if applicable:
(i)
a reduction in full or in part or cancellation of any such liability;
(ii)
a conversion of all, or a portion of, such liability into shares or other instruments of ownership in such Affected
Financial Institution, its parent undertaking, or a bridge institution that may be issued to it or otherwise conferred on it, and that such
shares or other instruments of ownership will be accepted by it in lieu of any rights with respect to any such liability under this
Agreement or any other Loan Document; or
(iii)
the variation of the terms of such liability in connection with the exercise of the Write-Down and Conversion Powers
of the applicable Resolution Authority.
10.22
Acknowledgement Regarding Any Supported QFCs. To the extent that the Loan Documents provide support, through a
guarantee or otherwise, for any Swap Contract or any other agreement or instrument that is a QFC (such support, “QFC Credit Support”, and
each such QFC, a “Supported QFC”), the parties acknowledge and agree as follows with respect to the resolution power of the Federal Deposit
Insurance Corporation under the Federal Deposit Insurance Act and Title II of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection
Act (together with the regulations promulgated thereunder, the “U.S. Special Resolution Regimes”) in respect of such Supported QFC and QFC
Credit Support (with the provisions below applicable notwithstanding that the Loan Documents and any Supported QFC may in fact be stated
to be governed by the laws of the State of New York and/or of the United States or any other state of the United States):
181
(a)
In the event a Covered Entity that is party to a Supported QFC (each, a “Covered Party”) becomes subject to a proceeding
under a U.S. Special Resolution Regime, the transfer of such Supported QFC and the benefit of such QFC Credit Support (and any interest and
obligation in or under such Supported QFC and such QFC Credit Support, and any rights in property securing such Supported QFC or such
QFC Credit Support) from such Covered Party will be effective to the same extent as the transfer would be effective under the U.S. Special
Resolution Regime if the Supported QFC and such QFC Credit Support (and any such interest, obligation and rights in property) were
governed by the laws of the United States or a state of the United States. In the event a Covered Party or a BHC Act Affiliate of a Covered
Party becomes subject to a proceeding under a U.S. Special Resolution Regime, Default Rights under the Loan Documents that might
otherwise apply to such Supported QFC or any QFC Credit Support that may be exercised against such Covered Party are permitted to be
exercised to no greater extent than such Default Rights could be exercised under the U.S. Special Resolution Regime if the Supported QFC and
the Loan Documents were governed by the laws of the United States or a state of the United States. Without limitation of the foregoing, it is
understood and agreed that rights and remedies of the parties with respect to a Defaulting Lender shall in no event affect the rights of any
Covered Party with respect to a Supported QFC or any QFC Credit Support.
(b)
As used in this Section 10.22, the following terms have the following meanings:
“BHC Act Affiliate” of a party means an “affiliate” (as such term is defined under, and interpreted in accordance with, 12
U.S.C. 1841(k)) of such party.
“Covered Entity” means any of the following: (i) a “covered entity” as that term is defined in, and interpreted in accordance
with, 12 C.F.R. § 252.82(b); (ii) a “covered bank” as that term is defined in, and interpreted in accordance with, 12 C.F.R. § 47.3(b); or
(iii) a “covered FSI” as that term is defined in, and interpreted in accordance with, 12 C.F.R. § 382.2(b).
“Default Right” has the meaning assigned to that term in, and shall be interpreted in accordance with, 12 C.F.R. §§ 252.81,
47.2 or 382.1, as applicable.
“QFC” has the meaning assigned to the term “qualified financial contract” in, and shall be interpreted in accordance with, 12
U.S.C. 5390(c)(8)(D).
[Signature pages follow.]
182
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be duly executed as of the date first above written.
ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE GROUP, INC.
By: /s/ David W. Hult
Typed Name: David W. Hult
Typed Title: President and Chief Executive Officer
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
NEW VEHICLE BORROWERS:
ASBURY ANT, LLC
ASBURY AR NISS L.L.C.
ASBURY ARLINGTON MB, LLC
ASBURY ART, LLC
ASBURY ATLANTA AC L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA AU L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA BM L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA CHEV, LLC
ASBURY ATLANTA HON L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA HUND L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA INF L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA INFINITI L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA K L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA LEX L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA NIS II, LLC
ASBURY ATLANTA NIS L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA TOY 2 L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA TOY L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA VB L.L.C.
ASBURY AURORA TOY, LLC
ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE BRANDON, L.P.
ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE ST. LOUIS, L.L.C.
ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE WEST, LLC
ASBURY CATONSVILLE M, LLC
ASBURY CH MOTORS L.L.C.
ASBURY CLARKSVILLE CBG, LLC
ASBURY CO CDJR, LLC
ASBURY CO GEN, LLC
ASBURY CO HG, LLC
ASBURY CO LEX, LLC
ASBURY CO SUB, LLC
ASBURY DALLAS MB, LLC
ASBURY DALLAS POR, LLC
ASBURY DALLAS VOL, LLC
ASBURY DELAND HUND, LLC
ASBURY-DELAND IMPORTS, L.L.C.
By: /s/ David W. Hult
Typed Name: David W. Hult
Typed Title: President and Chief Executive Officer
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
NEW VEHICLE BORROWERS, continued:
ASBURY DFW JLR, LLC
ASBURY EASTON T, LLC
ASBURY FORT WORTH MB, LLC
ASBURY GEORGIA TOY, LLC
ASBURY GREELEY SUB, LLC
ASBURY IN CBG, LLC
ASBURY IN CDJ, LLC
ASBURY IN CHEV, LLC
ASBURY IN FORD, LLC
ASBURY IN HON, LLC
ASBURY IN TOY, LLC
ASBURY INDY CHEV, LLC
ASBURY JAX AC, LLC
ASBURY JAX HON L.L.C.
ASBURY LAKEWOOD CHEV, LLC
ASBURY LAKEWOOD TOY, LLC
ASBURY LITTLETON JLR, LLC
ASBURY LITTLETON POR, LLC
ASBURY LONGMONT HUND, LLC
ASBURY MS CHEV L.L.C.
ASBURY NOBLESVILLE CDJR, LLC
ASBURY OMK, LLC
ASBURY PLANO LEX, LLC
ASBURY SC JPV L.L.C.
ASBURY SC LEX L.L.C.
ASBURY SC TOY L.L.C.
ASBURY ST. LOUIS LEX L.L.C.
ASBURY ST. LOUIS LR L.L.C.
ASBURY ST. LOUIS M L.L.C.
ASBURY TX AUCTION, LLC
ASBURY TYSONS CBG, LLC
ASBURY TYSONS CDJR, LLC
ASBURY TYSONS T, LLC
ASBURY WESTMINSTER T, LLC
ASBURY WILMINGTON L, LLC
ASBURY WMC, LLC
ASBURY WMV, LLC
By: /s/ David W. Hult
Typed Name: David W. Hult
Typed Title: President and Chief Executive Officer
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
NEW VEHICLE BORROWERS, continued:
ASBURY WOODBRIDGE BG, LLC
ASBURY WOODBRIDGE H, LLC
ASBURY WOODBRIDGE K, LLC
AVENUES MOTORS, LTD.
BFP MOTORS L.L.C.
CFP MOTORS L.L.C.
CH MOTORS L.L.C.
CHO PARTNERSHIP, LTD.
CN MOTORS L.L.C.
COGGIN CARS L.L.C.
COGGIN CHEVROLET L.L.C.
CROWN CHH L.L.C.
CROWN FDO L.L.C.
CROWN GAC L.L.C.
CROWN GBM L.L.C.
CROWN GDO L.L.C.
CROWN GHO L.L.C.
CROWN GNI L.L.C.
CROWN GVO L.L.C.
CROWN MOTORCAR COMPANY L.L.C.
CROWN PBM L.L.C.
CROWN RIA L.L.C.
CROWN RIB L.L.C.
CROWN SNI L.L.C.
CSA IMPORTS L.L.C.
ESCUDE-NN L.L.C.
ESCUDE-NS L.L.C.
ESCUDE-T L.L.C.
HFP MOTORS L.L.C.
KP MOTORS L.L.C.
LARRY H. MILLER COMPANY – BOUNTIFUL, L.L.C.
LHM ACD, LLC
LHM ACJ, LLC
LHM ADR, LLC
LHM ALH, LLC
By: /s/ David W. Hult
Typed Name: David W. Hult
Typed Title: President and Chief Executive Officer
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
NEW VEHICLE BORROWERS, continued:
LHM AMT, LLC
LHM ANI, LLC
LHM AVW, LLC
LHM BCD, LLC
LHM BSU, LLC
LHM BUC, LLC
LHM CHV, LLC
LHM CTO, LLC
LHM DCJ, LLC
LHM DDR, LLC
LHM DNI, LLC
LHM FLT, LLC
LHM HOB, LLC
LHM HON, LLC
LHM HYN, LLC
LHM LCJ, LLC
LHM LEX, LLC
LHM LFO, LLC
LHM LMD, LLC
LHM MBL, LLC
LHM MNI, LLC
LHM MUR, LLC
LHM NHR, LLC
LHM PCD, LLC
LHM PCH, LLC
LHM PEORIA GEN, LLC
LHM PFL, LLC
LHM PNX, LLC
LHM QCH, LLC
LHM QCJ, LLC
LHM RCD, LLC
LHM SCD, LLC
LHM SFL, LLC
LHM SFO, LLC
LHM SHO, LLC
LHM SWH, LLC
LHM TCD, LLC
By: /s/ David W. Hult
Typed Name: David W. Hult
Typed Title: President and Chief Executive Officer
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
NEW VEHICLE BORROWERS, continued:
LHM TCJ, LLC
LHM TDR, LLC
LHM TSD, LLC
LHM TVW, LLC
LHM UCN, LLC
LHM UCO, LLC
LHM UCS, LLC
MCDAVID AUSTIN-ACRA, L.L.C.
MCDAVID FRISCO-HON, L.L.C.
MCDAVID HOUSTON-NISS, L.L.C.
MCDAVID IRVING-HON, L.L.C.
MCDAVID PLANO-ACRA, L.L.C.
NP MZD L.L.C.
NP VKW L.L.C.
OSBORN/MILLER AUTOMOTIVE, L.L.C.
PRECISION INFINITI, INC.
PRECISION MOTORCARS, INC.
PRECISION NISSAN, INC.
PREMIER NSN L.L.C.
PREMIER PON L.L.C.
PRESTIGE BAY L.L.C.
PRESTIGE TOY L.L.C.
Q AUTOMOTIVE BRANDON FL, LLC
Q AUTOMOTIVE CUMMING GA, LLC
Q AUTOMOTIVE FT. MYERS FL, LLC
Q AUTOMOTIVE HOLIDAY FL, LLC
Q AUTOMOTIVE JACKSONVILLE FL, LLC
Q AUTOMOTIVE KENNESAW GA, LLC
Q AUTOMOTIVE ORLANDO FL, LLC
Q AUTOMOTIVE TAMPA FL, LLC
TAMPA HUND, L.P.
TAMPA KIA, L.P.
WTY MOTORS, L.P.
By: /s/ David W. Hult
Typed Name: David W. Hult
Typed Title: President and Chief Executive Officer
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
USED VEHICLE BORROWERS:
ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE GROUP, INC.
AF MOTORS, L.L.C.
ASBURY ANT, LLC
ASBURY AR NISS L.L.C.
ASBURY ARLINGTON MB, LLC
ASBURY ART, LLC
ASBURY ATLANTA AC L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA AU L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA BM L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA CHEV, LLC
ASBURY ATLANTA FORD, LLC
ASBURY ATLANTA HON L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA HUND L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA INF L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA INFINITI L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA K L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA LEX L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA NIS II, LLC
ASBURY ATLANTA NIS L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA TOY 2 L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA TOY L.L.C.
ASBURY ATLANTA VB L.L.C.
ASBURY AURORA TOY, LLC
ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE BRANDON, L.P.
ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE ST. LOUIS, L.L.C.
ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE WEST, LLC
ASBURY BALTIMORE F, LLC
ASBURY CATONSVILLE M, LLC
ASBURY CH MOTORS L.L.C.
ASBURY CLARKSVILLE CBG, LLC
ASBURY CO CDJR, LLC
ASBURY CO GEN, LLC
ASBURY CO HG, LLC
By: /s/ David W. Hult
Typed Name: David W. Hult
Typed Title: President and Chief Executive Officer
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
USED VEHICLE BORROWERS, continued:
ASBURY CO LEX, LLC
ASBURY CO SUB, LLC
ASBURY DALLAS MB, LLC
ASBURY DALLAS POR, LLC
ASBURY DALLAS VOL, LLC
ASBURY DELAND HUND, LLC
ASBURY-DELAND IMPORTS, L.L.C.
ASBURY DFW JLR, LLC
ASBURY EASTON T, LLC
ASBURY FCF, LLC
ASBURY FORT WORTH MB, LLC
ASBURY FT. WORTH FORD, LLC
ASBURY GEORGIA TOY, LLC
ASBURY GREELEY SUB, LLC
ASBURY IN CBG, LLC
ASBURY IN CDJ, LLC
ASBURY IN CHEV, LLC
ASBURY IN FORD, LLC
ASBURY IN HON, LLC
ASBURY IN TOY, LLC
ASBURY INDY CHEV, LLC
ASBURY JAX AC, LLC
ASBURY JAX FORD, LLC
ASBURY JAX HON L.L.C.
ASBURY LAKEWOOD CHEV, LLC
ASBURY LAKEWOOD TOY, LLC
ASBURY LITTLETON JLR, LLC
ASBURY LITTLETON POR, LLC
ASBURY LONGMONT HUND, LLC
ASBURY MS CHEV L.L.C.
ASBURY MS GRAY-DANIELS L.L.C.
ASBURY NOBLESVILLE CDJR, LLC
ASBURY OMK, LLC
ASBURY PLANO LEX, LLC
ASBURY SC JPV L.L.C.
ASBURY SC LEX L.L.C.
ASBURY SC TOY L.L.C.
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
ASBURY ST. LOUIS LEX L.L.C.
ASBURY ST. LOUIS LR L.L.C.
ASBURY ST. LOUIS M L.L.C.
By: /s/ David W. Hult
Typed Name: David W. Hult
Typed Title: President and Chief Executive Officer
USED VEHICLE BORROWERS, continued:
ASBURY STERLING F, LLC
ASBURY TX AUCTION, LLC
ASBURY TYSONS CBG, LLC
ASBURY TYSONS CDJR, LLC
ASBURY TYSONS T, LLC
ASBURY WESTMINSTER T, LLC
ASBURY WILMINGTON L, LLC
ASBURY WMC, LLC
ASBURY WMV, LLC
ASBURY WOODBRIDGE BG, LLC
ASBURY WOODBRIDGE F, LLC
ASBURY WOODBRIDGE H, LLC
ASBURY WOODBRIDGE K, LLC
AVENUES MOTORS, LTD.
BFP MOTORS L.L.C.
CFP MOTORS L.L.C.
CH MOTORS L.L.C.
CHO PARTNERSHIP, LTD.
CN MOTORS L.L.C.
COGGIN CARS L.L.C.
COGGIN CHEVROLET L.L.C.
CROWN CHH L.L.C.
CROWN FDO L.L.C.
CROWN FFO L.L.C.
CROWN GAC L.L.C.
CROWN GBM L.L.C.
CROWN GDO L.L.C.
CROWN GHO L.L.C.
CROWN GNI L.L.C.
CROWN GVO L.L.C.
CROWN MOTORCAR COMPANY L.L.C.
CROWN PBM L.L.C.
CROWN RIA L.L.C.
CROWN RIB L.L.C.
CROWN SNI L.L.C.
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
CSA IMPORTS L.L.C.
ESCUDE-NN L.L.C.
ESCUDE-NS L.L.C.
ESCUDE-T L.L.C.
HFP MOTORS L.L.C.
By: /s/ David W. Hult
Typed Name: David W. Hult
Typed Title: President and Chief Executive Officer
USED VEHICLE BORROWERS, continued:
KP MOTORS L.L.C.
LARRY H. MILLER COMPANY – BOUNTIFUL, L.L.C.
LHM ACD, LLC
LHM ACJ, LLC
LHM ADR, LLC
LHM ALH, LLC
LHM AMT, LLC
LHM ANI, LLC
LHM AVW, LLC
LHM BCD, LLC
LHM BSU, LLC
LHM BUC, LLC
LHM CHV, LLC
LHM CTO, LLC
LHM DCJ, LLC
LHM DDR, LLC
LHM DNI, LLC
LHM FLT, LLC
LHM HOB, LLC
LHM HON, LLC
LHM HYN, LLC
LHM LCJ, LLC
LHM LEX, LLC
LHM LFO, LLC
LHM LMD, LLC
LHM MBL, LLC
LHM MFD, LLC
LHM MNI, LLC
LHM MUR, LLC
LHM NHR, LLC
LHM PCD, LLC
LHM PCH, LLC
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
LHM PEORIA GEN, LLC
LHM PFL, LLC
LHM PNX, LLC
LHM QCH, LLC
LHM QCJ, LLC
By: /s/ David W. Hult
Typed Name: David W. Hult
Typed Title: President and Chief Executive Officer
USED VEHICLE BORROWERS, continued:
LHM RCD, LLC
LHM SCD, LLC
LHM SFL, LLC
LHM SFO, LLC
LHM SHO, LLC
LHM SWH, LLC
LHM TCD, LLC
LHM TCJ, LLC
LHM TDR, LLC
LHM TSD, LLC
LHM TVW, LLC
LHM UCN, LLC
LHM UCO, LLC
LHM UCS, LLC
MCDAVID AUSTIN-ACRA, L.L.C.
MCDAVID FRISCO-HON, L.L.C.
MCDAVID HOUSTON-NISS, L.L.C.
MCDAVID IRVING-HON, L.L.C.
MCDAVID PLANO-ACRA, L.L.C.
NP FLM L.L.C.
NP MZD L.L.C.
NP VKW L.L.C.
OSBORN/MILLER AUTOMOTIVE, L.L.C.
PLANO LINCOLN-MERCURY, INC.
PRECISION INFINITI, INC.
PRECISION MOTORCARS, INC.
PRECISION NISSAN, INC.
PREMIER NSN L.L.C.
PREMIER PON L.L.C.
PRESTIGE BAY L.L.C.
PRESTIGE TOY L.L.C.
Q AUTOMOTIVE BRANDON FL, LLC
Q AUTOMOTIVE CUMMING GA, LLC
Q AUTOMOTIVE FT. MYERS FL, LLC
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
Q AUTOMOTIVE HOLIDAY FL, LLC
Q AUTOMOTIVE JACKSONVILLE FL, LLC
Q AUTOMOTIVE KENNESAW GA, LLC
Q AUTOMOTIVE ORLANDO FL, LLC
Q AUTOMOTIVE TAMPA FL, LLC
TAMPA HUND, L.P.
TAMPA KIA, L.P.
WTY MOTORS, L.P.
By: /s/ David W. Hult
Typed Name: David W. Hult
Typed Title: President and Chief Executive Officer
BANK OF AMERICA, N.A.,
as Administrative Agent
By: /s/ Linda Lov
Typed Name: Linda Lov
Typed Title: Vice President
BANK OF AMERICA, N.A.,
as a Lender, an L/C Issuer, Revolving Swing Line Lender, New Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line
Lender and Used Vehicle Floorplan Swing Line Lender
By: /s/ David T. Smith
Typed Name: David T. Smith
Typed Title: Senior Vice President
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
TOYOTA MOTOR CREDIT CORPORATION,
as a Lender
By: /s/ Dominic Calcaterra
Typed Name: Dominic Calcaterra
Typed Title: National Accounts Manager
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A.,
as a Lender
By: /s/ Adam Sigman
Typed Name: Adam Sigman
Typed Title: Executive Director
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as a Lender
By: /s/ Chad McNeill
Typed Name: Chad McNeill
Typed Title: Director
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
AMERICAN HONDA FINANCE CORPORATION,
as a Lender
By: /s/ Justin Calleja
Typed Name: Justin Calleja
Typed Title: DFS Asst. Manager
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
MERCEDES-BENZ FINANCIAL SERVICES USA LLC,
as a Lender
By: /s/ Farrah Vaughn-Dixon
Typed Name: Farrah Vaughn-Dixon
Typed Title: Regional Dealer Credit Manager-National Accounts
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION,
as a Lender
By: /s/ Katherine Taylor
Typed Name: Katherine Taylor
Typed Title: Vice President
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
SANTANDER BANK, N.A.,
as a Lender
By: /s/ Scott Bernstein
Typed Name: Scott Bernstein
Typed Title: SVP
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
MASS MUTUAL ASSET FINANCE LLC,
as a Lender
By: /s/ Donald L. Buttler
Typed Name: Donald L. Buttler
Typed Title: Senior Vice President
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
TD BANK, N.A.,
as a Lender
By: /s/ Edward A. Palek,Jr
Typed Name: Edward A. Palek,Jr
Typed Title: VP, Market Credit Manager
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
HYUNDAI CAPITAL AMERICA,
as a Lender
By: /s/ Jean Tham
Typed Name: Jean Tham
Typed Title: Vice President
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
BMW FINANCIAL SERVICES NA, LLC,
as a Lender
By: /s/ Emily Adams
Typed Name: Emily Adams
Typed Title: Section Manager
By: /s/ Alex Calcasola
Typed Name: Alex Calcasola
Typed Title: Deputy for Department Manager
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
ZIONS BANCORPORATION, N.A.,
as a Lender
By: /s/ Robert Kastelic
Typed Name: Robert Kastelic
Typed Title: SVP
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
VW CREDIT, INC.,
as a Lender
By: /s/ William J. Binz
Typed Name: William J. Binz
Typed Title: Sr. Manager - Commercial Credit
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION,
as a Lender
By: /s/ Larry D. Jackson
Typed Name: Larry D. Jackson
Typed Title: Senior Vice President
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
NISSAN MOTOR ACCEPTANCE COMPANY LLC, formerly known as NISSAN
MOTOR ACCEPTANCE CORPORATION, as a Lender
By: /s/ Todd Voorhies
Typed Name: Todd Voorhies
Typed Title: Sr. Manager, Dealer Credit
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
Signature Page
Exhibit 19.1
ASBURY AUTOMOTIVE GROUP, INC.
INSIDER TRADING POLICY
PURPOSE
Federal and state securities laws make it illegal for a person to trade in a company’s publicly traded securities while in possession
of material nonpublic information (defined below in the section entitled, “Definitions Used in this Policy”) relating to that
company. This conduct is known as “insider trading.” It is also illegal for a person to disclose material nonpublic information to
another, who may use this information to trade. This conduct is known as “tipping.”
The purpose of this Insider Trading Policy (the “Policy”) is (i) to promote compliance with applicable securities laws by Asbury
Automotive Group, Inc., its subsidiaries (“Asbury” or the “Company”) and all directors, officers and employees of Asbury
(“Insiders”), and (ii) to preserve the reputation and integrity of Asbury and its Insiders when transacting in “Asbury Securities.”
The term “Asbury Securities” includes: (i) common stock, stock options, preferred stock, warrants, convertible securities and
debentures, (ii) debt securities, (iii) any derivative securities relating to Asbury’s common stock and (iv) other securities Asbury
may issue from time to time.
The Policy should be read in conjunction with Asbury’s Disclosure Policy which prohibits the unauthorized disclosure of material
nonpublic information acquired in the work-place or otherwise as a result of an individual’s employment or other relationship
with Asbury, as well as the misuse of any material nonpublic information about Asbury or its business in securities trading.
SCOPE
This Policy applies to all Insiders.
POLICY
General Rules When Trading Asbury Securities
1. Don’t trade while in possession of Asbury’s material nonpublic information. You may not buy, sell or trade in any Asbury
Securities at any time while you possess material nonpublic information concerning Asbury (even if the Company’s trading
window is open). If you are in possession of such information, you must wait to trade until the information has been released
to the public for at least one full trading day (a day on which the stock market is open).
2. Do not disclose nonpublic information concerning Asbury to any other person, including family members, or discuss Asbury
matters in Internet “chat rooms” or on social networking sites (i.e., Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, etc.). Giving such
information to others is commonly known as “tipping” and is illegal. Insiders should not make recommendations or express
opinions about trading in Asbury Securities directly or through the Internet. Asbury’s Disclosure Policy provides policies
restricting disclosure of its confidential information and identifying individuals who are authorized to speak on behalf of the
Company.
Insider Trading Policy
Page 1 of 5
3. Don’t use nonpublic information to trade in other companies’ stock. Don’t trade in the stock of Asbury’s customers, vehicle
manufacturers and other suppliers, vendors or other business partners (collectively, “Business Partners”) when you have
material nonpublic information concerning these Business Partners that you obtained in the course of your relationship with
Asbury. Asbury’s business with its Business Partners is based on trust and confidentiality. All prohibitions relating to trading of
Asbury Securities have equal applicability to trading in stock of Asbury’s Business Partners.
4. Avoid pledging and speculative transactions involving Asbury Securities. Asbury strongly discourages Insiders from trading in
Asbury Securities on a short-term basis (that is, trading that suggests that you are trying to profit in short-term movements,
either increases or decreases, in Asbury’s stock price). Asbury further prohibits Section 16 reporting persons from pledging
Asbury Securities or otherwise subjecting Asbury Securities to margin calls or the ability to be sold outside of the owner’s
control.
5. Short sales involving Asbury Securities are prohibited. Selling Asbury Securities short is prohibited. Selling short is the
practice of selling securities that the seller does not own. Any Asbury Securities purchased by an Insider in the open market
may be sold by the Insider so long as the Insider actually owns the Asbury Securities being sold, and provided that the
transaction complies with this Policy.
6. Puts, calls and derivative transactions involving Asbury Securities are prohibited, and trading in Asbury’s debt securities is
discouraged. Insiders are not permitted to purchase or sell derivatives and options of any kind, whether puts or calls, involving
Asbury Securities, or engage in hedging activities involving Asbury Securities, such as synthetic trading. A put is a right to sell at
a specified price a specific number of shares by a certain date. A call is a right to buy at a specified price a specified number of
shares by a certain date. A derivative is a security whose value is based on the performance of an underlying financial asset,
index or other investment. A synthetic trade is a position created by combining put and call options. The speculative nature of
the market for these financial instruments imposes timing considerations that are inconsistent with careful avoidance, or even
the appearance of non-use, of material nonpublic information. In addition, Asbury discourages Insiders from trading in its debt
securities.
7. Make sure immediate family members and persons controlling family trusts (and similar entities) comply with this Policy.
For the purposes of this Policy, these people are called “Related Persons.” Any transactions involving Asbury Securities in
which Related Persons engage, or have control, or whose assets are held for the benefit of you or a Related Person, are the
same as transactions by you. Insiders are responsible for making sure that such Related Persons do not engage in any
transaction that would violate this Policy as if the Insider engaged in the transaction directly. The same rules apply to trading
in Asbury Securities by business entities owned or controlled by Insiders.
Additional Obligations for Certain Individuals
The following Insiders, designated as “Covered Persons” under this Policy, are subject to additional restrictions and may have
federal securities law reporting requirements:
(i)
members of the Board of Directors of Asbury;
(ii)
officers of Asbury;
(iii)
corporate employees;
Insider Trading Policy
Page 2 of 5
(iv)
Regional Controllers;
(v)
General Managers of the Company’s dealerships;
(vi)
any other person so designated by Asbury’s Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer or the General Counsel
from time to time; and
(vii)
any member of the immediate family (as defined herein) of any person identified in (i) – (vi) above.
If you are a Covered Person, please review the memorandum provided to you with this Policy entitled, “Additional Insider Trading
Policies and Restrictions for Covered Persons.”
Exceptions under the Policy
Generally, gifts of Asbury Securities to an individual or to a charitable entity are not subject to this Policy. However, any gifts of
Asbury Securities should be discussed with the General Counsel or Vice President, Internal Audit, Risk & Compliance if you are
uncertain of compliance under this Policy or the federal securities laws. In addition, certain Covered Persons have additional
federal securities law reporting requirements upon gifting shares of Asbury Securities, so such Covered Persons should discuss
plans for gifts in advance with the General Counsel to ensure compliance with these reporting requirements.
Application of Policy after Employment Terminates
If your employment terminates at a time when you have or think you may have material nonpublic information about Asbury or
its Business Partners, the prohibition on trading on such information continues until such information (i) is the subject of a public
announcement of such information by Asbury or its Business Partners, as applicable, or (ii) is no longer material.
Potential Criminal and Civil Liability
The penalties for “insider trading” include civil fines of up to three times the profit gained or loss avoided, and criminal fines of up
to $5,000,000 and a significant jail term. You can also be liable for improper transactions by “tipping.” Specifically, you may be
liable for improper transactions by any person to whom you have inadvertently disclosed nonpublic information. The Securities
and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) has imposed large penalties even when the disclosing person did not actually trade or
profit from the trading. As such, please remember that you trade at your own risk. While this Policy is intended to assist you in
complying with the federal and state rules against insider trading, you must always exercise appropriate judgment in connection
with any trade in Asbury Securities.
Twenty-Twenty Hindsight
Insiders should keep in mind that if their securities transactions ever become the subject of scrutiny, these transactions will be
viewed after the fact and in the bright light of hindsight. As a result, before engaging in any transaction in Asbury Securities,
Insiders should carefully consider how regulators and others might view the transaction after the fact. Even the appearance of
impropriety or governmental inquiries with respect to a transaction could impair investor confidence in Asbury and subject an
Insider and/or Asbury to government inquiries or litigation. Consequently, any concerns or questions about this Policy should be
discussed with Asbury’s General Counsel.
Insider Trading Policy
Page 3 of 5
Definitions Used in this Policy
1. Immediate Family Member. The following persons are considered members of your “immediate family”: your spouse,
parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren and siblings, including any such relationship that arises through marriage or
by adoption. It also includes members of your household, whether or not they are related to you.
2. Material Information. It is not possible to define all categories of “material” information, but information should be
regarded as material if it is likely that it would be considered important to an investor in making an investment decision
regarding a purchase or sale of Asbury Securities. While it may be difficult to determine whether particular information is
material or not, there are some categories of information that are particularly sensitive and that should almost always be
considered material:
Earnings information (including annual or quarterly financial results or changes in earnings projections);
Significant mergers, acquisitions, dispositions, tender offers, joint ventures, or changes in assets;
Changes in control or in senior management (senior vice presidents and above) or the board of directors;
Change in auditors or auditor notification that Asbury may no longer rely on its audit report;
Events regarding Asbury’s securities - e.g., defaults on senior securities, calls of securities for redemption, adoption of
repurchase plans, stock splits or significant changes in dividend policy, changes to the rights of public security holders,
public or private sales of additional securities;
Impending bankruptcies or receiverships;
Significant litigation or adverse action by regulatory bodies;
Commencement or resolution of significant litigation; or entry into, amendment of, or termination of material
agreements outside the ordinary course of business.
The above list does not include every type of information that may be regarded as material. Note that any information that could
have either a positive or negative impact on the price of a company’s securities may be material.
3. Nonpublic Information. Information about Asbury is considered to be “nonpublic” if it is known within the Company but
not yet disclosed to the general public. Asbury generally discloses information to the public either via press release or in
the regular quarterly or annual reports that it is required to file with the SEC. Information is considered “public” only after
it has been publicly available, through press release or otherwise, for at least twenty-four hours.
Implementation
1. Administration. The General Counsel is responsible for the implementation and administration of this Policy.
2. Changes. The Company may modify or amend this Policy at any time.
Insider Trading Policy
Page 4 of 5
3. Violations. Employees who violate this Policy shall be subject to disciplinary action, which may include ineligibility for
future participation in Asbury’s equity incentive plans or termination of employment for cause. Any refusal or failure by an
employee to cooperate fully with Asbury in any investigation of a possible violation of this Policy, or of federal or state
securities laws, may also subject the employee to termination for cause.
Insider Trading Policy
Page 5 of 5
Exhibit 21
Entity Name
Domestic State
Foreign Qualification
AF Motors, L.L.C.
DE
FL
ANL, L.P.
DE
FL
Arkansas Automotive Services, L.L.C.
DE
Asbury ANT, LLC
DE
MD
Asbury AR Niss L.L.C.
DE
Asbury Arlington MB, LLC
DE
TX
Asbury ART, LLC
DE
VA
Asbury Atlanta AC L.L.C.
DE
GA
Asbury Atlanta AU L.L.C.
DE
GA
Asbury Atlanta BM L.L.C.
DE
GA
Asbury Atlanta CHEV, LLC
DE
GA
Asbury Atlanta Chevrolet L.L.C.
DE
GA
Asbury Atlanta Ford, LLC
DE
GA
Asbury Atlanta Hon L.L.C.
DE
GA
Asbury Atlanta Hund L.L.C.
DE
GA
Asbury Atlanta Inf L.L.C.
DE
GA
Asbury Atlanta Infiniti L.L.C.
DE
GA
Asbury Atlanta Jaguar L.L.C.
DE
GA
Asbury Atlanta K L.L.C.
DE
GA
Asbury Atlanta Lex L.L.C.
DE
GA
Asbury Atlanta Nis II, LLC
DE
GA
Asbury Atlanta Nis L.L.C.
DE
GA
Asbury Atlanta Toy 2 L.L.C.
DE
GA
Asbury Atlanta Toy L.L.C.
DE
GA
Asbury Atlanta VB L.L.C.
DE
GA
Asbury Atlanta VL L.L.C.
DE
Asbury Aurora Toy, LLC
DE
CO
Asbury Austin JLR, LLC
DE
TX
Asbury Automotive Arkansas Dealership Holdings L.L.C.
DE
MS
Asbury Automotive Arkansas L.L.C.
DE
MS
Asbury Automotive Atlanta II L.L.C.
DE
GA
Asbury Automotive Atlanta L.L.C.
DE
GA
Asbury Automotive Brandon, L.P.
DE
FL
Asbury Automotive Central Florida, L.L.C.
DE
Asbury Automotive Deland, L.L.C.
DE
FL
Asbury Automotive Fresno L.L.C.
DE
Asbury Automotive Group L.L.C.
DE
CT, FL, NJ
Asbury Automotive Jacksonville GP L.L.C.
DE
FL
Asbury Automotive Jacksonville, L.P.
DE
FL
Asbury Automotive Management L.L.C.
DE
GA, NY
Asbury Automotive Mississippi L.L.C.
DE
MS
Asbury Automotive North Carolina Dealership Holdings L.L.C.
DE
NC
Asbury Automotive North Carolina L.L.C.
DE
NC, NJ, SC, VA
Asbury Automotive North Carolina Management L.L.C.
DE
NC
Asbury Automotive North Carolina Real Estate Holdings L.L.C.
DE
NC, NJ, SC, VA
Asbury Automotive Oregon L.L.C.
DE
Asbury Automotive Southern California L.L.C.
DE
Asbury Automotive St. Louis II L.L.C.
DE
MO
Asbury Automotive St. Louis, L.L.C.
DE
MO
Asbury Automotive Tampa GP L.L.C.
DE
FL
Asbury Automotive Tampa, L.P.
DE
FL
Asbury Automotive Texas L.L.C.
DE
TX
Asbury Automotive Texas Real Estate Holdings L.L.C.
DE
TX
Asbury Automotive West, LLC
DE
Asbury Baltimore F, LLC
DE
MD
Asbury Catonsville M, LLC
DE
MD
Asbury CH Motors L.L.C.
DE
Asbury Clarksville CBG, LLC
DE
MD
Asbury CO CDJR, LLC
DE
CO
Asbury CO GEN, LLC
DE
CO
Asbury CO HG, LLC
DE
CO
Asbury CO Lex, LLC
DE
CO
Asbury CO SUB, LLC
DE
CO
Asbury Dallas BEN, LLC
DE
TX
Asbury Dallas KAR, LLC
DE
Asbury Dallas MAS, LLC
DE
Asbury Dallas MB, LLC
DE
TX
Asbury Dallas MCL, LLC
DE
Asbury Dallas POR, LLC
DE
TX
Asbury Dallas RR, LLC
DE
Asbury Dallas VOL, LLC
DE
TX
Asbury Deland Hund, LLC
DE
FL
Asbury Deland Imports 2, L.L.C.
DE
FL
Asbury DFW JLR, LLC
DE
TX
Asbury Easton T, LLC
DE
MD
Asbury FCF, LLC
DE
VA
Asbury Fort Worth MB, LLC
DE
TX
Asbury Fresno Imports L.L.C.
DE
Asbury Ft. Worth Ford, LLC
DE
TX
Asbury Georgia TOY, LLC
DE
GA
Asbury Grapevine LEX, LLC
DE
Asbury Greeley SUB, LLC
DE
CO
Asbury IN CBG, LLC
DE
IN
Asbury IN CDJ, LLC
DE
IN
Asbury IN CHEV, LLC
DE
IN
Asbury IN FORD, LLC
DE
IN
Asbury IN HON, LLC
DE
IN
Asbury IN TOY, LLC
DE
IN
Asbury Indy Chev, LLC
DE
IN
Asbury Jax AC, LLC
DE
FL
Asbury Jax Ford, LLC
DE
FL
Asbury Jax Holdings, L.P.
DE
FL
Asbury Jax Hon L.L.C.
DE
FL
Asbury Jax K L.L.C.
DE
Asbury Jax Management L.L.C.
DE
FL
Asbury Jax VW L.L.C.
DE
Asbury Lakewood Chev, LLC
DE
CO
Asbury Lakewood Toy, LLC
DE
CO
Asbury Littleton JLR, LLC
DE
CO
Asbury Littleton Por, LLC
DE
CO
Asbury Longmont Hund, LLC
DE
CO
Asbury Management Services, LLC
DE
AR, AZ, FL, GA, IN, MO,
MS, NC, NY, OH, PA, SC,
TN, TX, VA
Asbury Mid-Atlantic, LLC
DE
MD, VA
Asbury MS CHEV L.L.C.
DE
IN, MS
Asbury MS Gray-Daniels L.L.C.
DE
MS
Asbury No Cal Niss L.L.C.
DE
Asbury Noblesville CDJR, LLC
DE
IN
Asbury OMK, LLC
DE
MD
Asbury Plano LEX, LLC
DE
TX
Asbury Risk Services, LLC
DE
AL, CT, IN, MO, MT, NE,
NH, PA, TN, TX, VT
Asbury Sacramento Imports L.L.C.
DE
Asbury SC JPV L.L.C.
DE
SC
Asbury SC LEX L.L.C.
DE
SC
Asbury SC Toy L.L.C.
DE
SC
Asbury So Cal DC L.L.C.
DE
Asbury So Cal Hon L.L.C.
DE
Asbury So Cal Niss L.L.C.
DE
Asbury South Carolina Real Estate Holdings L.L.C.
DE
SC
Asbury St. Louis Cadillac L.L.C.
DE
Asbury St. Louis FSKR, L.L.C.
DE
Asbury St. Louis Lex L.L.C.
DE
MO
Asbury St. Louis LR L.L.C.
DE
MO
Asbury St. Louis M L.L.C.
DE
MO
Asbury Sterling F, LLC
DE
VA
Asbury Tampa Management L.L.C.
DE
FL
Asbury Texas D FSKR, L.L.C.
DE
Asbury Texas H FSKR, L.L.C.
DE
Asbury TX Auction, LLC
DE
TX
Asbury Tysons CBG, LLC
DE
VA
Asbury Tysons CDJR, LLC
DE
VA
Asbury Tysons T, LLC
DE
VA
Asbury Westminster T, LLC
DE
MD
Asbury Wilmington L, LLC
DE
Asbury WMC, LLC
DE
MD
Asbury WMV, LLC
DE
MD
Asbury Woodbridge BG, LLC
DE
VA
Asbury Woodbridge F, LLC
DE
VA
Asbury Woodbridge H, LLC
DE
VA
Asbury Woodbridge K, LLC
DE
VA
Asbury-Deland Imports, L.L.C.
DE
FL
Atlanta Real Estate Holdings L.L.C.
DE
GA
Avenues Motors, Ltd.
FL
Bayway Financial Services, L.P.
DE
FL
BFP Motors L.L.C.
DE
FL
C & O Properties, Ltd.
FL
Camco Finance II L.L.C.
DE
NC, SC, VA
CFP Motors L.L.C.
DE
FL
CH Motors L.L.C.
DE
FL
CHO Partnership, Ltd.
FL
CK Chevrolet L.L.C.
DE
CK Motors LLC
DE
CN Motors L.L.C.
DE
FL
Coggin Automotive Corp.
FL
Coggin Cars L.L.C.
DE
FL
Coggin Chevrolet L.L.C.
DE
FL
Coggin Management, L.P.
DE
FL
CP-GMC Motors L.L.C.
DE
Crown Acura/Nissan, LLC
NC
Crown CHH L.L.C.
DE
NC
Crown CHO L.L.C.
DE
Crown CHV L.L.C.
DE
Crown FDO L.L.C.
DE
NC
Crown FFO Holdings L.L.C.
DE
NC
Crown FFO L.L.C.
DE
NC
Crown GAC L.L.C.
DE
NC
Crown GBM L.L.C.
DE
NC
Crown GCA L.L.C.
DE
Crown GDO L.L.C.
DE
NC
Crown GHO L.L.C.
DE
NC
Crown GNI L.L.C.
DE
NC
Crown GPG L.L.C.
DE
Crown GVO L.L.C.
DE
NC
Crown Honda, LLC
NC
Crown Motorcar Company L.L.C.
DE
VA
Crown PBM L.L.C.
DE
NJ
Crown RIA L.L.C.
DE
VA
Crown RIB L.L.C.
DE
VA
Crown SJC L.L.C.
DE
Crown SNI L.L.C.
DE
SC
CSA Imports L.L.C.
DE
FL
Escude-NN L.L.C.
DE
MS
Escude-NS L.L.C.
DE
MS
Escude-T L.L.C.
DE
MS
Florida Automotive Services L.L.C.
DE
HFP Motors L.L.C.
DE
FL
JC Dealer Systems, LLC
DE
KP Motors L.L.C.
DE
FL
Landcar Administration Company
UT
AZ, CA, CO, ID, MT, NM,
NV, TX, WA
Landcar Agency, Inc.
UT
AL, AZ, CA, CO, DE, FL,
GA, HI, ID, IN, MD, MO,
MT, NC, NH, NM, NV, OR,
SC, TN, TX, VA, WA, WI,
WY
Landcar Casualty Company
UT
AL, AZ, CA, CO, DE, FL,
GA, IN, MD, MO, MT, NC,
NH, NV, SC, TN, TX, VA,
WI, WY
LANDCAR GC, LLC
UT
Landcar Management, Ltd.
UT
AZ, NM
Larry H. Miller Company - Bountiful, L.L.C.
UT
LHM ACD, LLC
UT
NM
LHM ACJ, LLC
UT
AZ
LHM ADR, LLC
UT
AZ
LHM ALH, LLC
UT
NM
LHM AMT, LLC
UT
NM
LHM ANI, LLC
UT
CO
LHM Auto GP Holdings, LLC
DE
LHM Auto Intermediate Holdings I, LLC
DE
LHM Auto Intermediate Holdings II, LLC
DE
LHM AVW, LLC
UT
AZ
LHM BCD, LLC
ID
LHM BSU, LLC
ID
LHM BUC, LLC
UT
ID
LHM CHV, LLC
UT
LHM Collision CSCO, LLC
UT
CO
LHM Collision OCC, LLC
UT
LHM CTO, LLC
UT
CA
LHM DCJ, LLC
UT
CO
LHM DDR, LLC
UT
CO
LHM DNI, LLC
UT
CO
LHM FLT, LLC
UT
TX
LHM HOB, LLC
ID
LHM HON, LLC
UT
LHM HYN, LLC
UT
AZ
LHM LCJ, LLC
UT
LHM LEX, LLC
UT
LHM LFO, LLC
UT
CO
LHM LMD, LLC
UT
AZ
LHM MBL, LLC
UT
LHM MFD, LLC
UT
AZ
LHM MNI, LLC
UT
AZ
LHM MUR, LLC
UT
LHM NHR, LLC
UT
CO
LHM PCD, LLC
UT
LHM PCH, LLC
UT
LHM Peoria GEN, LLC
DE
AZ
LHM PFL, LLC
UT
LHM PNX, LLC
UT
AZ
LHM QCH, LLC
UT
NM
LHM QCJ, LLC
UT
NM
LHM RCD, LLC
UT
LHM SAX, LLC
UT
LHM SCD, LLC
UT
AZ
LHM SFL, LLC
UT
LHM SFO, LLC
UT
LHM SHO, LLC
UT
WA
LHM SPO Holdings, LLC
UT
LHM SWH, LLC
UT
NM
LHM TCD, LLC
UT
CO
LHM TCJ, LLC
UT
AZ
LHM TDR, LLC
UT
AZ
LHM TSD, LLC
UT
CA
LHM TVW, LLC
UT
AZ
LHM UCN, LLC
UT
LHM UCO, LLC
UT
LHM UCS, LLC
UT
McDavid Austin-Acra L.L.C.
DE
TX
McDavid Frisco-Hon L.L.C.
DE
TX
McDavid Grande L.L.C.
DE
TX
McDavid Houston-Hon, L.L.C.
DE
TX
McDavid Houston-Niss, L.L.C.
DE
TX
McDavid Irving-Hon, L.L.C.
DE
TX
McDavid Outfitters, L.L.C.
DE
McDavid Plano-Acra, L.L.C.
DE
TX
Mid-Atlantic Automotive Services, L.L.C.
DE
NC, NJ
Mississippi Automotive Services, L.L.C.
DE
Missouri Automotive Services, L.L.C.
DE
NP FLM L.L.C.
DE
NP MZD L.L.C.
DE
NP VKW L.L.C.
DE
AR
Osborn/Miller Automotive, L.L.C.
UT
CO
Plano Lincoln-Mercury, Inc.
DE
TX
Precision Computer Services, Inc.
FL
Precision Enterprises Tampa, Inc.
FL
Precision Infiniti, Inc.
FL
Precision Motorcars, Inc.
FL
Precision Nissan, Inc.
FL
Premier NSN L.L.C.
DE
Premier Pon L.L.C.
DE
Prestige Bay L.L.C.
DE
Prestige Toy L.L.C.
DE
Q Automotive Brandon FL, LLC
DE
FL
Q Automotive Cumming GA, LLC
DE
GA
Q Automotive Ft. Myers FL, LLC
DE
Q Automotive Group L.L.C.
DE
Q Automotive Holiday FL, LLC
DE
FL
Q Automotive Jacksonville FL, LLC
DE
FL
Q Automotive Kennesaw GA, LLC
DE
GA
Q Automotive Orlando FL, LLC
DE
FL
Q Automotive Tampa FL, LLC
DE
Southern Atlantic Automotive Services, L.L.C.
DE
Tampa Hund, L.P.
DE
FL
Tampa Kia, L.P.
DE
FL
Tampa LM, L.P.
DE
Tampa Mit, L.P.
DE
Texas Automotive Services, L.L.C.
DE
Thomason Auto Credit Northwest, Inc.
OR
Thomason Dam L.L.C.
DE
Thomason FRD L.L.C.
DE
Thomason Hund L.L.C.
DE
Thomason Pontiac-GMC L.L.C.
DE
WMZ Motors, L.P.
DE
WTY Motors, L.P.
DE
FL
Exhibit 23.1
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
We consent to the incorporation by reference in the following Registration Statements:
1. Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-231518) of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
2. Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-221146) of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
3. Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-165136) of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
4. Registration Statement (Form S-3 No. 333-123505) of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
5. Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-115402) of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
6. Registration Statement (Form S-3 No. 333-112126) of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
7. Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-105450) of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
8. Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-84646) of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc
of our reports dated February 26, 2025, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. and the
effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) of
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. for the year ended December 31, 2024.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Atlanta, Georgia
February 26, 2025
Exhibit 31.1
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
I, David W. Hult, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make
the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period
covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects
the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in
Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and
15d-15(f)) for the registrant and we have:
(a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our
supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to
us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b)
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed
under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of
financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about
the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such
evaluation; and
(d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's
most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is
reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting;
5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to
the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which
are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b)
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's
internal control over financial reporting.
/s/ David W. Hult
David W. Hult
Chief Executive Officer
February 26, 2025
Exhibit 31.2
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
I, Michael D. Welch certify that:
1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make
the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period
covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects
the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in
Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and
15d-15(f)) for the registrant and we have:
(a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our
supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to
us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b)
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed
under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of
financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about
the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such
evaluation; and
(d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's
most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is
reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting;
5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to
the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which
are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b)
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's
internal control over financial reporting.
/s/ Michael D. Welch
Michael D. Welch
Chief Financial Officer
February 26, 2025
Exhibit 32.1
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. (the "Company") for the year ended December 31, 2024, as filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the "Report"), I, David W. Hult, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant
to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that, to the best of my knowledge:
(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the
Company.
/s/ David W. Hult
David W. Hult
Chief Executive Officer
February 26, 2025
Exhibit 32.2
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. (the "Company") for the year ended December 31, 2024, as filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the "Report"), I, Michael D. Welch, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify,
pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that, to the best of my knowledge:
(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the
Company.
/s/ Michael D. Welch
Michael D. Welch
Chief Financial Officer
February 26, 2025