Flagstaff, Arizona is now home to a fresh approach to luxury automotive excellence as Mercedes-Benz of Northern Arizona has been acquired by LAPIS, a Houston-based company led by Founder and CEO Todd Blue. The acquisition, finalized on December 19, 2023, marks a significant return to the retail automotive sector for Mr. Blue, and a promising new chapter for the Mercedes-Benz dealership located at 5171 Test Drive, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004. This purchase encompasses both the prime real estate and the esteemed Mercedes-Benz franchise, signaling a robust investment in the Flagstaff automotive market. Mr. Blue himself will be deeply involved, stepping in as the Dealer Principal for Mercedes-Benz of Northern Arizona, accessible online at www.MercedesArizona.com.
“Mercedes-Benz represents the pinnacle of automotive luxury, a brand I have long admired and aspired to represent,” stated Todd Blue. His enthusiasm is palpable as he embarks on this venture, adding, “Representing Mercedes-Benz is a lifelong ambition realized, and it’s an exciting opportunity to bring a new level of customer experience to Arizona, starting with Flagstaff.” This acquisition is more than just a business transaction; it’s a commitment to elevating the luxury car ownership experience in Northern Arizona. Mr. Blue further emphasized LAPIS’s core philosophy: “Luxury Access Performance Innovation and Service – this is what LAPIS stands for, for our valued customers, the communities we are part of, and the prestigious manufacturers we are privileged to represent. We are thrilled to begin this journey in Northern Arizona, serving not just Flagstaff, but also neighboring communities like Prescott, Cottonwood, Payson, Page, Williams, and Sedona.”
For Todd Blue, this acquisition is a deeply personal endeavor. A passionate car enthusiast and collector, he is committed to being a hands-on Dealer Principal, ensuring the highest standards are met at Mercedes-Benz of Northern Arizona. “The brands I choose to align with are carefully selected, and I bring a wealth of luxury market expertise that will distinguish every LAPIS dealership. It’s about creating a distinct culture,” Mr. Blue explained. His vision is clear: “Cultivating and nurturing customer passion is our foremost goal. LAPIS is dedicated to delivering an extraordinary experience to our customers, our communities, our partners, and our team members.”
Mercedes-Benz of Northern Arizona becomes the inaugural franchise dealership under the LAPIS banner, adding to LAPIS’s existing portfolio of boutique classic cars. This move signifies a strategic blend of heritage and forward-thinking in the automotive world. Mr. Blue’s proven track record in the automotive industry is remarkable. From 2010 to 2020, he spearheaded unprecedented growth as Founder and CEO of his former auto group. His leadership encompassed multiple luxury franchises including Audi, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lamborghini, Rolls-Royce, McLaren, Aston Martin, Bentley, Volkswagen, BMW, and Porsche. Notably, Porsche AG recognized his expertise by appointing him to the design committee for the innovative Destination Porsche facility Generation Five design. He further solidified his pioneering spirit by establishing the world’s first Destination Porsche facility in California.
His industry recognition extends to being nominated as one of 50 for the Time Magazine National Automobile Dealer Association’s Dealer of the Year award in 2019. Under his guidance, dealerships consistently achieved accolades such as the J.D. Power Dealer of Excellence Award, Automotive News Best Dealership to Work For, Audi Magna Society recognition, Porsche Premier Dealer status, Pride of Jaguar awards, Lamborghini Vision awards, and the Rolls Royce Provenance Dealer of the Year award. Mr. Blue’s industry influence is further underscored by his service on boards and panels for Porsche Cars North America, Aston Martin of the Americas, BMW Western Region, and Bentley USA.
Beyond his automotive achievements, Mr. Blue is actively involved in the Young Presidents Organization (YPO Gold) and serves on the California Highway Patrol 11-99 Foundation Board of Directors, demonstrating his commitment to both business excellence and community service. With the acquisition of Mercedes-Benz of Northern Arizona, Todd Blue and LAPIS are poised to bring a new era of luxury and customer-focused service to the Flagstaff region and the wider Northern Arizona area.
For more information about Mr. Todd Blue and LAPIS Automotive LLC, please visit www.LAPIS.com.
