Business: Group 1 Automotive, Inc. Houston-based, an international, Fortune 500 automotive retailer, is a leading operator in the automotive retailing industry. Since its initial public offering in October 1997, Group 1 has grown to become the third largest dealership group in the United States and has expanded into the United Kingdom and Brazil. The company has achieved their success through a strategy that leverages management experience and emphasizes geographic and brand diversity, interrelated revenue streams, operational efficiencies and the prudent deployment of capital. Group 1 owns and operates 150 automotive dealerships, 195 franchises, and 38 collision centers in the United States, United Kingdom and Brazil. Through their dealerships, the company sells new and used cars and light trucks; arranges related vehicle financing, service and insurance contracts; provides maintenance and repair services; and sells vehicle parts.