Kendall Auto Group, which has dealerships in Idaho, Oregon, Alaska and Montana, is buying Meridian Ford.

It is the company's first purchase in the Treasure Vally. The company has two locations in Lewiston where its sells multiple brands of cars and trucks. Kendall moved its headquarters to Boise from Eugene, Ore. last year because of the market potential and its central location for most of the company's stores.

Kendall officials declined to disclose a sales price.

Meridian Ford, located at 250 East Overland Road, has been owned by Larry Chetwood since 1979. Chetwood, 72, who has 50 years in the automobile business, is retiring.

Kendall, a family-owned business in its 75th year, expects to rename the dealership. It hasn't settled on a final name for the store, but company officials expect it will be called Kendall Ford of Meridian.

It is the company's third Ford store. Kendall has 15 locations and sells brands including Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, Toyota, Chevrolet and Subaru.

Bill Roberts: 377-6408