Jenkins Chrysler is selling its Keyser, W.Va., dealership to consolidate sales in LaVale, Md., and Sheetz is buying the property on U.S. 220 south of the city to develop a new and larger convenience store, Mineral-Daily News Tribune reported.

 

 “We were in a unique position with two stores less than 25 miles apart,” said Jeff Jenkins, president of Jenkins Chrysler. “When Sheetz approached us in February with a need for our real estate, it made sense for both of us. The time had come for us to simplify.”‘ Jenkins attributed the move to changes in the auto industry that continue to put pressure on dealers nationwide, spurring such consolidation.

 

The acquisition of the Jenkins property moves Sheetz just south of the Keyser, W.Va. city limits, outside the reach of the city’s business and occupation tax.

 

For Sheetz, the acquisition of the Jenkins property will allow the chain to develop a much larger operation from the current site, which is squeezed into a cramped lot at the congested corner of South Mineral Street (U.S. 220) and Chestnut Street, Mineral-Daily News Tribune reported.