Rohrich Automotive Group
Overview
Rohrich Automotive Group is a multi-generational family-owned dealership network based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with a history spanning over six decades. Founded in 1965 by Dick Rohrich Sr. on Baum Boulevard, the historic Automobile Row of Pittsburgh, the group has grown to operate 14-16 rooftops representing 22 brands from Acura to Volvo. With estimated annual revenues of $1.2 billion, Rohrich is one of the largest dealership groups in Western Pennsylvania and a dominant force in the tri-state region.
Under the leadership of CEO Rich Rohrich Jr., the third generation of the family, Rohrich Automotive Group has successfully navigated generational transitions, economic recessions, and profound changes in automotive retailing. The group now employs over 1,500 people and serves customers across Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia.
Company Snapshot
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rohrich Automotive Group |
| Year Founded | 1965 |
| Founder | Dick Rohrich Sr. |
| CEO | Rich Rohrich Jr. |
| Headquarters | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania |
| Number of Rooftops | 15 |
| Brands Represented | 22 brands including Acura, Audi, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, Kia, Lexus, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Toyota, Volvo |
| Annual Revenue | $1.2 billion |
| Employees | ~1,500 |
History & Founding
Dick Rohrich Sr. was born in 1928 in Pittsburgh. After serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, he began working at a Chevrolet dealership on Baum Boulevard. In 1965, he purchased a small struggling dealership called Rohlich Brothers and renamed it Rohrich Motor Company. He built his business by focusing on customer service and offering financing to customers with limited credit.
In the 1970s, Rohrich expanded into Toyota (1972) and Honda (1976), correctly predicting demand for fuel-efficient vehicles after the 1973 oil embargo. The 1980s were harrowing as the collapse of the steel industry devastated Pittsburgh's economy. Rohrich closed two stores and laid off 40% of his workforce but refused to sell out to a national chain.
Dick Rohrich Sr. retired in 1995, handing the business to his son Rich Rohrich Sr., who expanded into luxury brands (BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus). In 2018, Rich Rohrich Jr. became the third-generation CEO.
Geographic Footprint
Pennsylvania (10 stores): Pittsburgh, Greensburg, Washington, Erie, Johnstown. Ohio (3 stores): Steubenville, Youngstown, East Liverpool. West Virginia (2 stores): Wheeling, Morgantown.
Key Milestones
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1965 | Dick Rohrich Sr. buys Rohlich Brothers on Baum Blvd |
| 1972 | Adds Toyota franchise |
| 1976 | Adds Honda franchise |
| 1982 | Survives steel industry collapse |
| 1995 | Dick Rohrich Sr. retires |
| 1997 | Adds BMW |
| 2000 | Acquires Mercedes-Benz |
| 2008 | Survives recession without store closings |
| 2015 | Expands to Ohio |
| 2018 | Rich Rohrich Jr. becomes third-generation CEO |
| 2021 | Revenue surpasses $1 billion |
Analysis & Outlook
Strengths include a comprehensive brand portfolio, generational stability, and strong position in markets overlooked by national chains. The group is likely to continue steady expansion into Harrisburg or Columbus while remaining committed to private family ownership.
Sources: Rohrich Group website, Pittsburgh Business Times, Automotive News.