Please see the statement below from David Smith, CEO of Sonic Automotive, Inc. (“Sonic'' or the “Company”) (NYSE:SAH), on the passing of the Company’s founder and executive chairman Bruton Smith.
“Yesterday, our company’s founder, executive chairman, and my father, Bruton Smith, passed away. He lived a truly remarkable life fulfilling his love for the automobile business, motorsports, philanthropy and most of all his family. I’m forever grateful for the countless opportunities he gave me and invaluable lessons he taught me about life, business, leadership, and the importance of giving back. I’m honored to work with our company’s Board of Directors, leadership team, and over 10,000 teammates to continue executing the vision he had for our company. Today and in the years ahead, Sonic Automotive will honor my father’s legacy through our company’s commitment to our guests, teammates, manufacturer partners, and communities we serve. Bruton Smith was not only an amazing entrepreneur and businessman, he was an even greater dad and my best friend. I used to tell him often that if everyone had a dad like him the world would be a much better place.” David Smith, CEO of Sonic Automotive, Inc.