Mudd Advertising is making a big move in the auto marketing world: the company has acquired DealerTrend, Inc., a Reno-based automotive tech provider known for its dealer websites, inventory tools, and API-driven digital solutions.
For more than 20 years, DealerTrend has carved out a niche helping dealerships simplify tech and compete online. By folding DealerTrend into its ecosystem, Mudd aims to strengthen its position as a leader in data-driven marketing, customer data platforms (CDPs), and omni-channel campaign execution.
Why It Matters
Automotive retail is in a race to modernize. Dealers need more than flashy websites—they need integrated data pipelines that connect inventory, shoppers, and customer insights into actionable campaigns. That’s where this deal comes in.
DealerTrend’s infrastructure will slot into MuddVision, Mudd’s proprietary Automotive Operating System. The integration promises:
- Stronger websites and API-driven integrations, giving dealers a tighter digital foundation.
- Seamless data activation, so inventory and customer signals flow directly into omni-channel campaigns.
- Faster innovation, with DealerTrend’s tech team boosting Mudd’s product development roadmap.
The Vision
“Mudd Advertising has always stood for helping dealers win with the best ideas, technology, and execution,” said Rob Mudd, Chief Futurist of Mudd Advertising. “DealerTrend’s proven digital infrastructure—from websites to APIs—complements our MuddVision platform perfectly. Together, we’re delivering the most complete, end-to-end solution for automotive retail marketing.”
That mission echoes DealerTrend’s own DNA. “From the beginning, our mission was to simplify technology for dealers and give them solutions that work,” added Robert Avery, DealerTrend Founder and CEO. “Joining forces with Mudd ensures that mission continues at a larger scale, with more data, more reach, and more impact.”
What’s Next
The acquisition is more than a tech play—it’s also a talent grab. DealerTrend’s experienced technology team is joining Mudd, deepening technical expertise and accelerating the product roadmap.
Mudd plans to begin integration immediately, with product enhancements and new capabilities rolling out to dealer clients throughout 2025.
In a market where auto retailers are fighting for efficiency and smarter digital touchpoints, Mudd’s acquisition of DealerTrend looks less like consolidation and more like a statement: the next phase of automotive marketing will be built on connected data, not siloed tools.
