CarMax Buys Remaining Stake in Edmunds For $404 Million

President's Note: Congrats Steinlauf Clan, wow $450 Million...why not peel off a few of those millions to thank The Auto Channel for your use of many of our site's pioneering features that you liked so much they were incorporated into the Edmunds site. A list of which, along with a collection of screen shots in chronological order can be provided with a serious discussion. It's only fair as The Auto Channel has been the acknowledged inventor of first time ever used on the Internet systems, interactive automotive databases, shopper research tools, embedded sync'd video, editorial features, viewer dealer outreach and many others. I know that you know what you did and it's time we were paid for our creativity, technical inventiveness and helping you succeed as a website not just a Printed Price Guide. I am happy that our internet efforts and content are deemed valuable...there are more where those came from.

RICHMOND, VA - April 2, 2021: CarMax, Inc., the nation's largest and most profitable retailer of used autos(?), today announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Edmunds, one of the most well established and trusted online guides for automotive information and a recognized industry leader in digital car shopping innovations.

With this acquisition, CarMax and Edmunds accelerate their respective capabilities to deliver an enhanced digital experience to their customers by leveraging Edmunds’ compelling content and technology, CarMax’s unparalleled national scale and infrastructure, and the combined talent of both companies. Following the closing of the transaction, Edmunds will continue to operate independently and will remain focused on delivering confidence to consumers and exceptional value to its dealer and OEM clients.

“We are excited to bring the iconic Edmunds brand, history of innovation, and exceptional technology and creative talent into the CarMax family,” said Bill Nash, CarMax’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our partnership to date has proven to be an outstanding combination as we’ve developed innovative products and advanced our shared commitment to delivering the highest quality online experience. We look forward to supporting and investing in Edmunds’ continued growth and are excited about the many opportunities ahead for both CarMax and Edmunds.”

In January 2020, CarMax invested $50 million to acquire a minority stake in Edmunds. Following that investment, CarMax and Edmunds jointly developed a number of strategic initiatives, including a successful online instant offer for sellers of used autos. “The instant offer products on Edmunds.com and CarMax.com have put CarMax in the position to become the largest online buyer of used autos from consumers,” said Mr. Nash. The two companies also plan to collaborate on new initiatives leveraging Edmunds’ content and technology expertise, as well as on new products to serve Edmunds’ customers.

Avi Steinlauf, Edmunds’ Chief Executive Officer, said, “For over 50 years, Edmunds has been delivering value to automotive shoppers, making the entire car buying process easier. We have found a great partner in CarMax, with whom we look forward to continuing to grow and support our shoppers, as well as our dealer and OEM partners, while providing continuous innovations to the market. I am excited about the next chapter in Edmunds’ evolution.”

Transaction Details

CarMax will acquire the remaining shares of Edmunds for a purchase price that implies an enterprise value of $404 million, inclusive of CarMax’s initial investment, which we expect to be paid in a combination of cash and stock. In 2020, Edmunds generated unaudited revenue of approximately $140 million. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close in June 2021. We expect the addition of Edmunds’ net income to be immaterial to the company’s earnings per share in fiscal 2022, with potential for significant shareholder value creation over the longer term.

Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC served as exclusive financial advisor and Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP served as legal advisor to CarMax. Evercore served as financial advisor and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP served as legal advisor to Edmunds.

About CarMax

CarMax, the nation’s largest retailer of used cars, revolutionized the automotive retail industry by driving integrity, honesty and transparency in every interaction. The company offers a truly personalized experience with the option for customers to do as much, or as little, online and in-store as they want. CarMax also provides a variety of vehicle delivery methods, including home delivery, contactless curbside pickup and appointments in its stores. During the fiscal year ending February 28, 2021, CarMax sold more than 750,000 used cars and more than 425,000 wholesale vehicles at its in-store and virtual auctions. In addition, CarMax Auto Finance originated more than $6 billion in receivables during fiscal year 2021, adding to its near $14 billion portfolio. CarMax has 220 stores, over 25,000 Associates, and is proud to have been recognized for 16 consecutive years as one of the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For®. For more information, visit www.carmax.com.

About Edmunds

Edmunds guides car shoppers online from research to purchase. With in-depth reviews of every new vehicle, shopping tips from an in-house team of experts, plus a wealth of consumer and automotive market insights, Edmunds helps millions of shoppers each month select, price and buy a car with confidence. Regarded as one of America’s best workplaces by Fortune and Great Place to Work, Edmunds is based in Santa Monica, California, and has a satellite office in Detroit, Michigan. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.