America's Car-Mart, Inc. (NASDAQ:CRMT) announced the completion of the second segment of its planned cost-reduction measures targeting SG&A expenses through consolidation of less profitable dealerships. This latest round involved integrating 13 dealerships into adjacent, better-performing locations. The prior phase, finalized in November 2025, saw the combination of 5 such stores, culminating in a total of 18 dealerships consolidated throughout these two phases.
The company shifted its customer base primarily from smaller, lower-yielding locations to larger dealerships nearby within several key markets in the South-Central United States. The Phase 2 consolidations spanned markets in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Oklahoma, and Texas. The initial phase focused on key states including Alabama, Kentucky, Oklahoma, and Tennessee. Car-Mart emphasized that clients affected by these relocations will continue to access sales, vehicle servicing, and collections through the enhanced neighboring dealerships, maintaining continuity of operations.
Management articulated that this footprint optimization strategy is designed to reinforce operational excellence and ensure prudent allocation of capital resources. As stated by Doug Campbell, President and Chief Executive Officer, concentrating efforts and investments in the company's highest performing areas is pivotal to achieving stronger returns on capital. He highlighted the company's renewed capital structure as a critical factor enabling confident execution of these strategic initiatives.
Campbell also acknowledged the community and associate impact these consolidations entail, reaffirming the company's respect and responsibility toward its employees, customers, and local markets. By realigning its physical presence, America's Car-Mart aims to enhance operational efficiency without compromising the customer experience that defines its brand identity.
Stock performance for the company's shares has reflected considerable challenges, with prices declining over 37% in the year 2023. Investors interested in exposure to Car-Mart may consider related financial instruments such as the AdvisorShares Focused Equity ETF (NYSE:CWS) and the Gabelli Financial Services Opportunities ETF (NYSE:GABF), which hold positions in the stock. On a recent trading day, the company’s shares closed modestly lower by 0.25%, priced at $27.61.
This strategic footprint adjustment aligns America's Car-Mart with broader market demands for operational discipline and profitability enhancement. The consolidation effort illustrates a focused approach to balancing cost control with preserved service capabilities across a geographic region essential to its operations.