Jan 25, 2022

Co-Principals of Nourse Automotive Group, David Nourse (l) and Scott Nourse (r) diversify with acquisition of Co2 Inflatables Boats, joining Kennedy Ford, Kennedy National Leasing and Fix Auto Oakville in the group

The largest volume recreational inflatable boat dealer in Canada, Co2 Inflatables Boats and Service, has been purchased by the Nourse Automotive Group, owners of Kennedy Ford Sales Limited, Kennedy National Leasing and Fix Auto Oakville. The transaction was completed on December 1, 2021.

Kennedy Ford, the core business of the group, has been a family business since 1977 and is owned by brothers Scott Nourse and David Nourse.

With locations in Oakville and Midland, Ontario, Co2 Inflatables has grown over 21 years under the direction of Jamie Small, the founder and president. Mr. Small opened the Midland, Ontario, location in 2005.

“David and I have been looking to expand beyond automotive sales and service, and have watched Co2 Inflatables grow and expand for years, so it’s an ideal venture for us in our plans to diversify,” says Scott Nourse, co-Dealer Principal, Kennedy Ford. “While the marine industry has some similarities to the auto industry, David and I are excited to learn the inflatable boat business from Jamie Small and his established team.”

Small will continue for a year as a consultant to ensure a smooth ownership transition. Both Co2 locations were acquired in the deal. Both Les Dawe (Midland location) and Vince Lynott (Oakville location) will continue with the new ownership group.

“We have all known each other for years with our businesses across the road,” says Jamie Small, Founder and President, Co2 Inflatables. “After expanding to Midland and with the businesses continued annual growth, it was time to inject some horsepower and take it forward. Kennedy Ford was exactly what we were looking for.”

Co2 Inflatables represents five major manufacturers with more than 30 inflatables from 6-feet to over 28-feet on display in its showrooms. They offer marine sales, service, parts and financing. Boat brands include Highfield Boats, Zodiac and Walker Bay boats along with engines from Yamaha and Tohatsu. Co2 Inflatables has been rated as a “5 Star” dealer by Yamaha for nine out of the last 10 years and is Canada’s largest Tohatsu dealer in terms of total dollars sold.

Kennedy Ford has won 38 Ford President’s Awards and is the highest-rated Ford dealer in the Oakville market. It is a strong supporter of many local charitable organizations and is a committed member of the community.