YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – After entering the Youngstown market with several acquisitions in 2023, #1 Cochran used 2024 to further integrate its Ohio locations into the Pittsburgh company’s core vision for long-term success.
This included implementing its culture among team members, building on existing relationships within the community and educating customers about the offerings available through #1 Cochran.
The family business, founded in 1965, employs 1,900 at 36 new-vehicle franchises and 11 collision centers. It is the 39th largest dealer group in the nation.
In 2024, #1 Cochran presented a $45,000 donation to the United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley through its annual Operation Santa campaign. Since the company entered the Ohio market, it has contributed more than $100,000 to local nonprofits, according to Ryan Case, marketing director.
Support of key community institutions includes the American Heart Association, the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County, Youngstown State University, the Youngstown Business Incubator, and local schools. Community engagement is a priority, Case says, citing events such as the annual Trunk or Treat, which draws more than 4,000 attendees, and the expanding EV Fest.
Following the dealership’s Panerathon and Let’s Put the Brakes on Breast Cancer campaigns, #1 Cochran presented a $26,330 check to the Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Cancer Center in Youngstown.
In October, Chairman and CEO Rob Cochran was elected as vice chair of the National Automobile Dealers Association, which represents more than 16,000 new-car dealerships. During his one-year term, which began in January, Cochran will help to shape policy on industry issues and serve as the voice of new-car dealers. He will become NADA chairman in 2026.
This January, Cochran was appointed to serve on the board of directors of the Pittsburgh Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland.
Cochran says Youngstown is foundational to building a unified Ohio network of sales, service and collision offerings.
“We’re laser focused on delivering more value, more products and more packages to our customers in the best possible way,” he says.
In January, #1 Cochran acquired Fred Martin Ford and Mercedes-Benz in Austintown. The additions increased the company’s offerings to 20 new-car brands overall, with eight readily available in northeastern Ohio.