Area Chevrolet Buick GMC dealership to change ownership

Rodney Cobb Chevrolet Buick GMC in Eaton has been sold to Ed Larkin, owner of Rose Automotive in Hamilton.

The dealership, owned by Cobb for the past 30 years at 500 E. Main St., Eaton, will now be named Larkin-Cobb Chevrolet Buick GMC.

“I’m so proud of the 30-year legacy we’ve built here in Eaton,” Cobb said in a release. “While it’s time for me to step back from ownership and day-to-day operation, this place is in very experienced and proven hands with Ed Larkin. I look forward to helping Ed in continuing the success of this dealership.”

Cobb will stay on during the ownership change and will continue on as an employee under the new owner to assist with administration and sales. Larkin currently serves as the general manager at Rose Automotive in Hamilton.

Rose Automotive, formerly Rose Chevrolet, lost its arbitration with General Motors Co. to be reinstated as a Chevy dealer in 2010. Since then, the family-owned dealership has sold used cars, according to Larkin.

“This is an opportunity for us to own a Chevy dealership again,” Larkin said. “We couldn’t be more excited to get back into selling the cars we know and love. Our vision is to carry on the legacy that Rodney has built with the same level of high-quality service the residents of Eaton and Preble County have come to expect. We can’t wait to get started.”