AutoCenter SalesOur Team

Our Team

Mike Baynes

Mike Baynes

President

Phone: 952-697-1010 Email: MBaynes@AutoCenter-Sales.com

Michael has been one of the premier automotive business brokers in the United States for over 25 years. During his career, he has specialized in the sale of existing auto businesses. His practice has taken him across the country selling many major franchise and independent automotive businesses. In addition, Michael has regularly spoken to national groups such as the Franchise Finance Convention held by Franchise Times on such topics as business valuations and raising acquisition debt. He has also written numerous articles and is often quoted in national publications due to his experience and expertise in the sale of auto businesses.

Working with Mike over the years has been a real pleasure. He was straight forward and easy to deal with. His industry knowledge and insights combined with his positive straight talk, have proven to be invaluable. He knows the process, what will and will not work, and is an expert at moving quickly. Mike is always a pleasure to work with and always looks at what is best. ​Darrell​ Muscolino President, JLSC Enterprises

Mike has been instrumental in helping me successfully complete 4 transactions (both buying and selling) over the last 15 years. His expertise in getting deals done is second to none. If you are contemplating a transaction in the auto service sector I can unconditionally recommend Mike and his team. Bill Dalton​ Owner​, ​Bella Lubes​ & ​Puget Sound Lubes SRD Properties

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Joe J. Thissen

Joe J. Thissen

Senior Vice President of Sales

Phone: 952-697-1017 Email: Joe@AutoCenter-Sales.com

Having been a pivotal part of AutoCenter Sales for nearly two decades, Joe brings an unparalleled depth of experience and insight into the automotive industry. His journey since joining the company has been marked by substantial accomplishments, including the successful sale of over 1,000 business locations across the nation.

Joe has developed a significant proficiency in handling lower-middle market M&A in multiple industries, skillfully managing transactions that range up to $100 million in size. This experience further enhances his ability to offer comprehensive services tailored to the unique needs of each deal.

Joe is also adept at handling smaller transactions. His approach to these deals is characterized by meticulous attention to detail and a personalized strategy that caters to the unique needs of each client. His ability to navigate the intricacies of small-scale transactions with precision and care is a testament to his adaptability and thorough understanding of various market dynamics.

Through a grounded and comprehensive understanding of multiple industries, Joe’s insights and expertise have made him a sought-after expert, regularly speaking on topics such as business sales, valuation, and exit planning. His commitment to delivering a high level of service is evident in every transaction, solidifying his reputation as a leader in the business resale industry.

Joe, you and your company provided a service to me and my wife that will allow us to live comfortably for the duration of our retirement years. You and your staff did an outstanding job in procuring and vetting a buyer that ticked all the boxes I was looking for in the sale of my company and associated property. Your attention to detail in the requesting, collecting and disseminating of the mountains of diligence requested by the buyers was commendable and thorough. No stone was left unturned and as a result all parties were able to come to amicable and profitable terms. I find your commitment to constant communication an extremely commendable asset in this long and arduous process, allowing me the peace of mind that someone extremely experienced in these activities is holding and the reins and all things will come to an acceptable conclusion. Thank you very much, I cannot express my deep appreciation for all your time and efforts in making this sale a reality. Thom Paker – Thoms 4-Wheel Drive, Chicago, IL

Our selling experience with Joe was nothing but exceptional. Thank you so much for the positive experience, selling our business. Joe was with us every step of the way. Everything went smoothly and as planned. I highly recommend Joe Thissen! Mark and Jeanne Phillips Rapid Lube - Martinsburg WV

Joe, thank you so much for getting us to the finish line with our crazy Transaction ! Your customer service, positive attitude, and expertise in the industry with all of your endless connections are second to none!! We can't thank you enough !! Rich & Kim E. - CA

I have bought and sold a few businesses along the way and I have to say, Joe, you handled this one better than any of the other brokers. Obviously, you know the business well, were very knowledgeable in pricing and structuring the deal. I know the buyer was a little shaky a couple of times but you handled that well too. I liked the updates, that is a big deal and saves everyone time and efforts. It was a great experience, not sure it could go any better all the way through. Very satisfied. Don E. - TN

Joe provided invaluable help with the sale of several automotive service centers. He guided us through the whole process and provided a great deal of insight. He was always available to answer questions and to calm us down and get us through the inevitable snags we encountered along the way. I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone interested in buying or selling automotive service businesses. Mac P. – PA

Over my over fifty year career, I have had the privilege of working with many other brokers, but I have to say that I have not worked with a more professional and diligent person. Joe handled every aspect and obstacle that presented itself throughout the sales process as a consummate professional. Tim E. – IL

Five Stars - Joe is the best sales professional we have ever encountered. He understands our business and is easy to work with. In our case he set a value on our businesses that worked for us, the buyer, the bank and the appraiser as well as assisting the buyer in obtaining financing. He babysat the process from beginning to end and even flew out for the final closing. It's easy to see why they have so many successful sales. Dennis S. – WA

I do not how to put into words how great Joe is. He has helped my dreams of business ownership become a reality. Joe has the knowledge, skill and connections to put deals together. I would highly recommend anyone looking to purchase or sell a business to work with Joe Thissen and AutoCenter Sales. Tyson D. – ID

Joe's expertise and knowledge were critical to our decision to follow through with the purchase of an existing franchise store. He is at all times professional and personable. I highly recommend Joe to you without reservations. Rand G. – TX

Thank you for holding my hand through this entire process. I’m convinced I made the right choice in having a lube broker to handle the sale simply because you were so familiar with the process and knew the “right things to do” to get the sale completed properly. My friends all tell me they haven’t seen me smile so much in ages. Frankly I didn’t realize I wasn’t smiling much. Selling this business has lifted a tremendous weight off me. I’ve been helping in the transition and everything seems to be going smoothly. Again, thanks a million. Cheryl M. – PA

If you want to purchase a business, Joe is very creative and knowledgeable from getting your foot in the door, all the way to training, to funding and closing the deal. I would highly recommend to any individual looking to expand his business to first call Joe, if Joe can't do it, no one can. I first met Joe in 2008 and now his has completed a couple very difficult and strenuous deals for me. He is a friend of mine and I am looking forward to a long and successful relationship. Ahmad M. – CA

Joe, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for all your time and efforts as my broker during this transaction. Your work ethic, professional manner, patience, industry knowledge and perseverance were all key factors in making this happen. I can honestly say this would not have happened without your efforts and attention to detail. There were a couple of times during the process that I was questioning whether or not it was worth the effort given some of the circumstances we encountered. With your guidance we sorted things out and completed the transaction at what appears to be a very fair yet reasonable price. Again, thanks for all your support and direction. Ken S. – CA

We hired Joe and his company to sell our chain of businesses in Upstate NY and he completed the task with a terrific result, ahead of schedule and with almost no anxiety over the process. I don't think there is a better broker in America to handle an M&A transaction. Jordan L. – NY

I have bought and sold a few businesses along the way and I have to say, Joe, you handled this one better than any of the other brokers. Obviously you know the business well, were very knowledgeable in pricing and structuring the deal. I know the buyer was a little shaky a couple of times but you handled that well too. I liked the updates, that is a big deal and saves everyone time and efforts. It was a great experience, not sure it could go any better all the way through. Very satisfied. Don E. –TN

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Jason Baynes

Jason Baynes

VP of Analytics & Sales Executive

Phone: 952-697-1025 Email: Jason@AutoCenter-Sales.com

Jason joined AutoCenter Sales in 2016 after 10 years of financial analysis for large corporations and a lifetime around the automotive industry and its people. Jason brings the same analytical mind that he used to design complex revenue models for billion dollar corporations to completing transactions at AutoCenter Sales. He also brings the same penchant for relationship-building as his father, and continues to help clients long after their transactions close. Jason holds a degree in accounting from MSU Mankato, where he graduated with honors.

Jason was a huge help with my transaction! As a first time buyer, I had a lot of extra questions and concerns and Jason was fantastic in answering my questions as well as explaining everything in detail. On top of that, he communicated everything in an effective manner and I never once felt like I was in the dark. I will only use Jason for everything transaction moving forward and would recommend him to anyone looking to get into the automotive business. -B.L. Orange County, CA

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Let Our Clients Speak for Us!

Check out the ACS reviews left by our clientele.

Mike has been instrumental in helping me successfully complete 4 transactions (both buying and selling) over the last 15 years. His expertise in getting deals done is second to none. If you are contemplating a transaction in the auto service sector I can unconditionally recommend Mike and his team.

Bill D.

Over my over fifty year career, I have had the privilege of working with many other brokers, but I have to say that I have not worked with a more professional and diligent person. Joe handled every aspect and obstacle that presented itself throughout the sales process as a consummate professional.

Tim E.
Illinois

Jason was a huge help with my transaction! As a first time buyer, I had a lot of extra questions and concerns and Jason was fantastic in answering my questions as well as explaining everything in detail. On top of that, he communicated everything in an effective manner and I never once felt like I was in the dark. I will only use Jason for everything transaction moving forward and would recommend him to anyone looking to get into the automotive business.

B.L.
California