Former Gene Messer Kia location is among the dealerships now operating under the unified Group 1 brand
LUBBOCK, Texas, July 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As part of its ongoing nationwide initiative to unify its extensive network of dealerships, Group 1 Automotive, Inc., a Houston-based automotive retailer with dealerships across the U.S. and U.K., today highlighted Group 1 Kia Hub City, formerly Gene Messer Kia, which has operated under its new name since April 9, 2026.
The Lubbock dealership is one of a growing number of U.S. locations aligned under the initiative, giving customers a clearer connection to Group 1’s scale, resources, and operational standards while preserving the local team, Kia expertise, and customer relationships that have served the Lubbock area for more than two decades.
Backed by the scale, resources, and expertise of an international automotive retailer, Group 1 Automotive remains focused on delivering the personalized service and community connections that define the local dealership experience. Learn more at Group1Auto.com.
Better Customer Experience
The transition from Gene Messer Kia to Group 1 Kia Hub City is part of a broader effort to create a more consistent customer experience across Group 1’s U.S. retail network. The rebrand did not represent a change in ownership, staffing, product offerings, or day-to-day operations, and customers have continued to work with the same local professionals under the new name.
Group 1 Automotive has owned and operated the Lubbock dealership for more than two decades. The new name formally connects the location to Group 1’s national platform, giving local customers the benefit of a familiar Lubbock dealership supported by the resources, technology, and operational discipline of a larger automotive group.
“Since taking our new name, our customers have found the same local team they know and trust, now with a clearer connection to the strength and resources of Group 1,” said Matt Baugher, General Manager of Group 1 Kia Hub City. “The name on the building changed, but what matters here has not: a consistent, convenient, and transparent experience, whether someone is shopping for a new Kia, servicing their current vehicle, or considering a trade-in.”
Continuity of Service and Local Commitment
Group 1 Kia Hub City continues to serve customers from its existing location at 6006 19th Street in Lubbock, Texas, supporting drivers throughout Lubbock and surrounding West Texas communities with new Kia vehicles, pre-owned vehicles, Kia service, parts, and maintenance support.
The dealership remains focused on the same local relationships that defined Gene Messer Kia, while gaining a clearer connection to Group 1’s broader retail network. Customers can expect continuity in the sales and service experience, along with the added benefit of a unified Group 1 brand that makes locations easier to recognize, find, and trust across markets.
Additional Customer Questions
Why did Gene Messer Kia change its name to Group 1 Kia Hub City?
Gene Messer Kia became Group 1 Kia Hub City on April 9, 2026 as part of Group 1 Automotive’s effort to create a clearer, more consistent naming structure across its U.S. dealerships. The new name reflects the dealership’s connection to Group 1 while continuing to serve customers in Lubbock and the surrounding West Texas communities. As part of the Group 1 network — 250 dealerships offering 37 vehicle brands — the dealership connects customers to new and pre-owned sales, financing, service, parts, and collision support, with a consistent experience from transparent pricing to online scheduling at every Group 1 store.
How can shoppers compare dealerships in the Lubbock area?
Shoppers comparing Lubbock-area dealerships often weigh inventory selection, pricing transparency, current incentives, financing options across multiple lenders, service department reputation, and trade-in offers. For electric-vehicle shoppers, charging support and EV-trained service can also be useful points of comparison. Total out-the-door cost is a more reliable measure than monthly payment alone.
How does dealership or manufacturer financing compare to a bank loan?
Manufacturer-affiliated lenders sometimes offer promotional rates or lease programs that banks do not, while banks and credit unions may offer competitive rates for well-qualified borrowers. Dealerships typically work with multiple lenders and can compare offers in one place. Reviewing the annual percentage rate, term, and total cost across options helps identify the best fit.
What are the benefits of a certified pre-owned vehicle?
Certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles generally undergo a multi-point factory inspection and reconditioning process and include limited warranty coverage beyond a standard used vehicle. Benefits may also include roadside assistance and a vehicle history report, with specific coverage varying by program and model year.
About Group 1 Automotive, Inc.
Group 1 owns and operates 251 automotive dealerships, 312 franchises, and 32 collision centers in the United States and the United Kingdom that offer 37 brands of automobiles. Through its dealerships and omni-channel platform, the Company sells new and used cars and light trucks; arranges related vehicle financing; sells service and insurance contracts; provides automotive maintenance and repair services; and sells vehicle parts.
Media Contact:
Kimberly Barta
Head of Marketing, Brand and Communications
kbarta@group1auto.com
503-539-0756
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SOURCE Group 1 Automotive, Inc.
