Group 1 Automotive Expands Board with Strategic Appointment of David Kimbell

Group 1 Automotive Welcomes David Kimbell to the Board of Directors

HOUSTON, August 11, 2026 – Group 1 Automotive, Inc. (NYSE: GPI), a leading automotive retailer, has announced a significant development today with the appointment of David C. Kimbell to its Board of Directors, effective August 10, 2026. This addition increases the Board's composition from nine to ten members, signaling a commitment to strengthening its governance and strategic oversight in the evolving automotive market.

Mr. Kimbell brings over three decades of retail experience, having notably served as the Chief Executive Officer of Ulta Beauty, the largest specialty beauty retailer in the United States. His leadership at Ulta was marked by impressive growth; revenue soared from $6.2 billion in 2020 to $11.3 billion during his tenure, largely due to strategic advancements such as the expansion of the loyalty program, an enriched product offering, and a cohesive shopping experience between the physical and online platforms.

In his previous roles at Ulta, Mr. Kimbell also held the positions of President and Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer, where he led key functions including merchandising, e-commerce, loyalty initiatives, and corporate strategy development. This rich background makes him a valuable asset for Group 1 as it seeks to enhance customer engagement and adapt to shifting market dynamics.

"We are thrilled to welcome David to our Board," stated Charles Szews, Non-Executive Chair of Group 1. "His vision for reimagining retail, combined with his proven ability to build customer loyalty and develop digital channels, will offer critical insights as we navigate the future of our company and the automotive sector."

Kimbell himself expressed excitement about his new role: "It’s an honor to join Group 1’s Board, especially during such a dynamic time for automotive retail. I believe that a strong focus on customer needs, coupled with the strategic utilization of data, can distinguish a business in this competitive field. I look forward to collaborating with Group 1 to enhance customer-focused efforts and ensure long-term value creation for the company."

In addition to his role at Group 1, Mr. Kimbell currently serves on the board of Best Buy Co., Inc. He possesses a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Management from DePauw University and an MBA from Purdue University, strengthening his qualifications as a seasoned business leader.

About Group 1 Automotive, Inc.

Group 1 Automotive operates a significant presence in the automotive sector, owning and managing 249 dealerships, 310 franchises, and 32 collision centers across the United States and the United Kingdom. The company offers an extensive range of services including the sale of new and used vehicles, financing arrangements, maintenance and repair services, and parts sales through its unique omni-channel platform.

For additional information about Group 1 and its operations, visit their official websites at www.group1corp.com, www.group1auto.com, or www.acceleride.com. Stakeholders can also access updates through their social media platforms, including Facebook.

The strategic appointment of Kimbell is expected to not only enhance Group 1’s managerial capabilities but also to align the company with innovative retail practices that prioritize customer satisfaction and drive growth in an increasingly digital marketplace. His proven track record in retail positions Group 1 for a competitive advantage as the automotive industry continues to evolve.