Auto group buys Knopf dealership

The Vinart Dealerships, based in Emmaus, said it acquired Knopf Automotive Inc., which has a dealership at 3401 Lehigh St. in Salisbury Township.

Andy Wright, vice president of Vinart, said the acquisition, which closed Friday, will add Mercedes-Benz and Porsche franchises to his portfolio of dealerships. The name of the Knopf dealership is now Mercedes-Benz of Lehigh Valley and Porsche Lehigh Valley.

Wright declined to disclose the cost.

He anticipates adding about 25 to 30 employees to the dealership, which will remain at its existing site in the Lehigh Street Auto Mall. He said he plans to complete a facility remodel in the next 18 months.

“It’s right next door to my other operations,” Wright said. “There’s a lot of synergies in making this acquisition.”

Also, he will add sales and service for the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van brand of commercial vehicles.

Vinart now owns five franchises in four locations, including Acura, Honda and Hyundai franchises.

David Helmer and Charles Knopf, owners of Knopf Automotive, were not available for comment.