Carmel-headquartered Byrider, the nation’s largest Buy Here Pay Here (BHPH) used car dealership network and franchisor, is driving momentum in 2026 with a franchisee-led ownership structure, a major investment in its homegrown Dealership Management Software and franchise growth plans.
Founded in 1989 as JD Byrider by James Devoe, the Byrider Buy Here Pay Here business model and credit-building program combines vehicle sales, in-house financing and on-site service to support customers throughout the automotive ownership journey. With its proven “Buy, Finance, Drive On” model, Byrider makes car ownership possible for customers who may not qualify for traditional bank financing. Byrider is the only BHPH concept that franchises, and currently, there are 36 franchising groups, nearly 70 percent of which own multiple units. The company continues to grow its nationwide presence, as demonstrated by a new location that recently opened in Jacksonville, North Carolina, this past quarter.
In 2024, the company was acquired by Byrider Franchise Partners, LLC, an investor group of existing Byrider franchisees who partnered together to lead the company to new heights with a focus on providing the franchise system with world class software and support to help them compete and win in their markets. Recently the company announced a major technology investment to modernize its proprietary Discover software platform. Built specifically for the BHPH model, Discover helps power dealership operations across vehicle acquisition and reconditioning, sales, underwriting, service, collections and accounting.
“This is a bright, new chapter for Byrider. We’ve been hard at work over the last few years to put the right pieces into place, and now we’re ready to kick things into high gear,” said Chief Executive Officer Mike Onda. “Expanding our franchise footprint will allow us to meet the growing demand of individuals who need a structured path to vehicle ownership and to improve their financial standing, while our recent investments in modernized technology demonstrate our continued commitment to franchisee support and success.”
Now focused on strategic franchise growth in key markets across the country, Byrider is currently awarding franchises to auto industry veterans; banking and finance professionals who understand credit and collections; and multi-unit retail or restaurant operators looking to diversify into a different category.
“It’s been incredible to see how the Byrider model has helped franchisees reach new potential with national buying power, robust support and the tools they need to run great BHPH businesses,” said Ryan Conrad, Vice President of Franchise Development at Byrider. “We want to grow the system thoughtfully with individuals who not only possess the proper know-how, but who also have a deep passion for their communities and making a difference in customers’ lives.”
