How Many BMW Dealers Are In The USA? A Closer Look

For auto enthusiasts and loyal BMW drivers across America, visiting their local BMW dealership is an essential part of the ownership experience. But just how vast is the BMW retail network in the United States? With over 300 dealers nationwide, BMW has established a substantial footprint to serve customers from coast to coast.

So what’s the exact number of how many BMW dealers there are in the USA? As of February 06, 2024, there are 366 authorized BMW dealerships operating throughout the 50 states and Washington D.C. This expansive retail network employs thousands of sales, service and support staff to assist BMW drivers and showcase the brand’s latest models.

California Has The Most BMW Retailers

With its huge population and automotive culture, it’s no surprise that California boasts more BMW dealerships than any other state. A total of 52 BMW dealer locations dot the Golden State – approximately 14% of the total number nationwide. Major metro areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco each support numerous dealers representing the premium BMW brand.

Beyond BMW automobiles, the nationwide retail network also includes dedicated stores for BMW Motorcycles and MINI vehicles. As of February 07, 2024 there are 143 authorized motorcycle dealers and 104 MINI passenger car dealers across the USA. So BMW drivers have plenty of options to shop local dealers for new vehicles, pre-owned inventory, authentic parts and professional service.

Largest BMW Dealership in the USA

When it comes to sheer sales volume from new and pre-owned BMW models, no dealership moves more metal than BMW of San Antonio in Texas. Having recently eclipsed 6,000 BMWs sold in a single year, this mega-dealer now claims the title of the largest BMW retailer in all of North America.

The sprawling dealership campus spans 30 acres and houses hundreds of new BMW and pre-owned vehicles. Shoppers in the San Antonio area can choose from the full model lineup from electric crossovers like the cutting-edge iX to driver-focused machines like the M4 Coupe. For those looking for a premium driving experience as well as southern hospitality, BMW of San Antonio sets the benchmark for BMW retailing nationwide.

Top Performing BMW Dealers Honored

While moving vehicles off the lot is important, BMW of North America takes a holistic view in assessing the top retailers in its network. Dealers are graded on measures including customer satisfaction, service quality and operational excellence through the Center of Excellence award program.

The 2023 COE award winners represent the 32 highest performing BMW dealers nationwide across these metrics. Some of the leading stores include:

BMW North Scottsdale (Phoenix, AZ)
BMW of Anchorage (Anchorage, AK)
BMW of Little Rock (Little Rock, AR)
BMW of Omaha (Omaha, NE)
BMW of Rochester (Rochester, NY)
BMW of Wilmington (Wilmington, NC)

These dealers and 27 other COE winners excel at delivering exceptional customer experiences in both sales and service. So when shopping for a new or used BMW, buyers can be confident on receiving white-glove treatment from any one of hundreds of retail locations nationwide.

Tracing BMW’s Growing Dealer Footprint

The road to over 360 dealerships nationwide has been marked by steady expansion for the BMW brand in America. Rewind just over a decade to 2012 and there were only 338 BMW stores and 120 MINI locations representing the group. Contrast that to 2024’s count of 366 BMW retailers alongside 143 motorcycle and 104 MINI stores, revealing solid growth in dealership representation.

Key areas of focus for ongoing expansion include major metro areas on both coasts along with newer markets like Texas and parts of the Southeast. Lone Star State residents have seen new dealerships appear in Austin, College Station and other cities while the Carolinas now boast additional retail touchpoints. This build-out better positions BMW to make sales and service more convenient while underscoring their commitment to enthusiast markets.

A Look Inside the BMW Dealership Experience

For shoppers heading to their local showroom or loyal owners bringing in their Ultimate Driving Machine for service, the expectation is a premium experience fitting the brand. Across the country, shoppers can expect the following when visiting authorized BMW stores:

New Vehicles – The latest BMW cars and SUVs like the sporty M240i coupe or X7 SUV flagship stand ready to test drive. Electric models like the forward-thinking i4 and iX will be on display as well. Knowledgeable product specialists assist shoppers and explain the nuances that set BMW apart.

Pre-Owned – Each store maintains an inventory of Certified Pre-Owned BMW models less than 6 years old. These CPO vehicles must pass an extensive inspection and include benefits like enhanced warranties for added peace of mind.

Leasing & Financing – Rather than buying outright, many BMW customers opt to lease. Retailers have finance managers on staff to structure competitive lease deals and today’s low interest rate purchase financing.

Service – Factory-trained technicians work on BMW vehicles exclusively at dealership service centers. Services range from scheduled maintenance like brake fluid flushes and new tires, to complex mechanical repairs for time-tested models.

Genuine Parts – Retailers carry an extensive inventory of authentic BMW parts from simple items like oil filters and windshield wipers to performance upgrades like alloy wheels and high-performance brake pads.

Customers typically give high marks across these areas for the level of professionalism and workmanship found at BMW dealership operations.

Is BMW Dealership Ownership Rewarding?

For entrepreneurs evaluating franchise business opportunities, a BMW dealership ranks among the most prestigious but challenging retail sectors. The substantial investment required likely exceeds $15 million for a store selling 250 new BMWs monthly. Applicants are vetted closely by BMW North America based on business experience, workplace culture and long-term vision.

Once approved, owners enjoy strong brand support but assume significant business risks. Pre-owned sales and service drive profits rather than new cars with thin margins. Shifting buyer preferences towards SUVs versus sedans has forced shifts in inventory planning as well. However the modern luxury buyer remains willing to pay a premium for an aspirational marque like BMW.

Ambitious individuals with a passion for the brand and appetite for business risk can find BMW retailing a rewarding field. The extensive training and experience gained translate well to other premium auto retail sectors like Mercedes-Benz and Lexus dealership operations.

What Does the Future Hold for BMW Retailers?

Looking ahead, BMW retailers face evolving consumer behaviors that will change the retail landscape. More buyers browse online before ever walking into stores. Some arrange test drives and vehicle delivery entirely through digital channels. Generational shifts see Millennial and Generation Z consumers less interested in traditional vehicle ownership too.

However BMW remains committed to a brick-and-mortar retail presence to properly showcase the technical prowess and performance heritage ingrained in the brand. Dealerships will focus more on creating lifestyle experiences that resonate with shifting preferences. The customer’s digital journey will now seamlessly integrate with physical locations.

BMW stores must master online-to-offline capabilities mixing digital retail with real-world sales and service execution. Consulting with connected customers, proving advanced technology knowledge and leveraging data insights will only grow in importance. Innovative retail programs like shop-able showroom displays and flexible subscription purchase options are likely on the horizon too.

The total number of BMW dealerships should remain fairly consistent but their inner workings will modernize significantly in coming years. Experts predict 300 to 350 national retailers for the foreseeable future based on sales volumes and demographic shifts. Leveraging technology will be vital for retailers to maximize customer engagement and maintain brand value.

Conclusion: An Extensive BMW Presence Across America

With over 360 dealerships spread across the United States alongside dedicated stores for motorcycles and MINI vehicles, BMW maintains an expansive retail footprint. The century-old brand has carved an upscale niche focused on driver-oriented performance machines popular with enthusiasts.

Loyal owners rely upon authorized retailers to purchase and service their Ultimate Driving Machines as well as explore new inventory. As preferences and purchasing behaviors evolve, BMW stores will fine-tune operations to deliver exceptional customer experiences. But the fundamental excitement of test driving these celebrated machines, then caring for them properly over years of ownership will remain.

So for those counting dealership locations or comparing regional inventories online, BMW is likely to meet your expectations down the road.