Finance

Meet the Car Dealer Transforming Nick Saban into a Billionaire

2025-04-21

Author: Ting

The Unlikely Partnership of Ambition and Football Genius

In an unexpected twist of fate, Joe Agresti, a lesser-known billionaire from the car dealership world, is at the heart of a booming business venture with college football legend Nick Saban. What began as a seemingly innocuous phone call turned into an ambitious partnership that is reshaping the automotive industry.

From a Phone Call to $2 Billion in Revenue

Agresti, the owner of Mercedes-Benz of Baton Rouge, received a surprising message one day from Saban, who aimed to explore opening a car dealership. Initially skeptical, Agresti met with Saban, resulting in a four-hour discussion that laid the foundation for their joint venture, Dream Motor Group. Today, they collectively sell about 20,000 luxury vehicles each year across nine states, including high-profile acquisitions like the recent $730 million Miami deal. Their operations are edging closer to a staggering $2 billion in annual revenue.

A Billionaire's Rise Through Relentless Innovation

Through a combination of relentless innovation and strong connections, Agresti became a billionaire with a net worth of $1.1 billion. His knack for solidifying partnerships and fostering corporate culture has made him a key player in the automotive sector. Saban, who holds a minority stake, is on track to become the first billionaire college coach largely due to this collaboration.

From Humble Beginnings to Success

Hailing from a working-class background in North Bergen, New Jersey, Agresti's education was driven by practicality. Choosing Rutgers over other prestigious options for financial reasons, he studied accounting and landed a job with Arthur Andersen. His journey took off when he successfully transitioned into the dealership world, utilizing funds from a financial gamble that nearly lost him everything.

Building an Automotive Empire with a Winning Mindset

With Saban’s extensive football background and Agresti’s business acumen, this duo has been unstoppable. Together, they've expanded operations to include luxury brands like Ferrari, with the opening of the Prancing Horse of Nashville. Their shared vision emphasizes attention to detail, customer experience, and cultural identity—principles that resonate deeply in Saban’s coaching philosophy.

Looking Beyond the Dealership: New Ventures Ahead

But Agresti's ambitions don't stop at auto sales. He’s diversifying his portfolio with plans for a bourbon brand and a medical supplies business that saw great success during the pandemic. Intrigued by the political landscape, he’s even contemplating a run for federal office, driven by a desire to reshape automotive policy in America.

Dominating the Future of Automotive and Sports

As Agresti continues to scout new opportunities, he has his sights set on potential investments in professional sports teams in Tennessee, and projects in South America. Between daily strategic discussions with Saban and innovative expansions, there’s no denying Agresti's relentless pursuit of success.

The Takeaway: A Unique Blend of Leadership and Vision

In an industry rife with challenges, Joe Agresti stands out as a visionary who is not only transforming his own fate but also paving the way for Nick Saban to enter the billionaire’s club. Their partnership epitomizes how unlikely alliances can lead to astonishing success, proving that with the right mix of ambition and expertise, anything is possible.