South Carolina-based Peacock Automotive has announced it is expanding into Brunswick with the purchase of two area dealerships — AutoNation Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram and AutoNation Hyundai at 5400 Altama Ave.

With this acquisition, Peacock Automotive has added more than 18 acres and nearly 30,000 square feet to its footprint of 20 automotive franchises in Georgia, South Carolina and Florida.

“We have fallen in love with Coastal Georgia, and we love these brands,” said Warner Peacock, president and CEO of Peacock Automotive. “There’s a great synergy since we already own franchises for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram and Hyundai, and we’re pleased to be able to bring these brands and our commitment of great treatment, service and selection to the Brunswick market.”

Peacock Automotive owns 13 dealerships at the Peacock Auto Mall in Jasper County, S.C., along with the Hyundai, Volkswagen, Fiat and Alfa Romeo dealerships in Savannah.

The acquisition of the Brunswick properties is expected to increase Peacock Automotive’s inventory by 1,000 new and pre-owned vehicles and add 40 jobs to the group, which now employs about 600 people at its franchises in Georgia, South Carolina and Florida. The company is headquartered at the Peacock Auto Mall at the I-95 Hilton Head Island gateway near Bluffton, S.C.