MOTOR TRADER

Inchcape continues switch from retail to distribution with latest acquisition

Inchcape has acquired Mercedes-Benz’s Indonesian business with Inchcape’s local partner, Indomobil.

The move is part of the group’s strategy to become the distributor of choice for carmakers.

Inchcape now has just two retail businesses in the UK and Poland following the sale of its retail arm in Russia and Australia.

AM ONLINE

Rainworth Motor Group targets expansion after Skoda Retailer of the Year win

Rainworth Motor Group is on the lookout for “sleepy” car retailers in need of operational improvement as it targets growth through acquisition after winning Skoda UK’s Retailer of the Year award.

DM Keith, Johnsons Cars, Meadens and West End Garage emerged with awards as Rainworth’s Mansfield dealership claimed the top accolade at the Czech manufacturer’s annual awards, leaving directors Jon Atherton and Simon Beckett to celebrated with their team.

And the pair told AM that the success had galvanised their desire to grow after a dealer profile feature in 2020 led to their first acquisition in 13 years.

“We’re still keen to expand and are always open to discussions,” said Beckett, who joined Atherton in paying tribute to the group’s workforce after the Mansfield team’s win.

AM ONLINE

Wessex Garages completes Nissan and Kia Gloucester dealership upgrades

Wessex Garages has completed the redevelopment of its Nissan and Kia dealerships in Gloucester.

Chris Wiseman, managing director of the Bristol-based AM100 car retail group, said that he was “delighted to see the completion of the project to transform the two showrooms on the city’s busy Mercia Road.

“I’m equally delighted to have created an amazing facility for our brands, colleagues and customers to enjoy,” he added.

MOTOR TRADER

Waylands appoints Ohme as EV charging partner

Waylands Group has appointed Ohme as its official charging partner, recommending Ohme chargers for new and used electrified vehicle sales.

Waylands Group represents Volvo, Kia, MG and Polestar franchises and also has its E location selling pre-owned EVs and PHEVs.

It now has an Ohme Home Pro charger in showrooms for customers to view.

“We are delighted to be partnering with Ohme as our preferred EV home charging supplier,” said John O’Hanlon CEO at Waylands Group.

MOTOR TRADER

Wessex Garages opens Nissan dealership in Gloucester after reburb

Wessex Garages has completed the refurbishment of its Nissan dealership in Gloucester.

The new look is all part of the reimagined Nissan retail experience.

A neighbouring Kia dealership has also been revamped as part of the project.

Chris Wiseman, managing director of Wessex Garages, said: “I am delighted that we have completed this project and I’m equally delighted to have created an amazing facility for our brands, colleagues and customers to enjoy. I would like to thank everyone involved in the refurbishment and we look forward to welcoming our customers back after almost six months of building work.