| -

SALT LAKE CITY — The Larry H. Miller Group of Automotive Companies continues to grow, and this time it is adding a few more stores in its home state. LHM Auto signed an agreement to buy three stores in Provo, Utah, from the Brent Brown Automotive Group.

Starting Aug. 2, LHM Auto will be the operator Brent Brown Chevrolet, Brent Brown Chrysler Jeep Dodge and Brent Brown Ford Lincoln Mercury as it waits to gain the approvals from each of the dealership's respective manufacturers.

It usually "takes a few months" to obtain such approval, officials said.

"We are pleased to have the opportunity to increase our support of the local economy by purchasing three additional dealerships," stated Greg Miller, who is the chief executive officer of the Larry H. Miller Group of Companies.

"Brent Brown has been a pleasure to work with during the transaction and we wish him continued success in his endeavors," Miller added.

Officials emphasized that all of the current employees at the respective stores will remain employed after LHM Auto takes over. LHM Auto plans to provide a general manager.

"We are very excited about expanding our footprint in the state of Utah and Utah County," said Tony Schnurr, president of the LHM Auto.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for the men and women currently employed at the dealerships, and we hope to increase business opportunities to the point where we can employ even more residents," Schnurr added.