Suzuki honours UK retail network at annual National Dealer Conference

Suzuki has been honouring the best of its UK retail network at its annual National Dealer Conference.

Held at the swanky Grove Hotel, Watford, the conference saw the Japanese brand dish out gongs for both national and regional performance.

It proved to be a successful night for Tracks of Exeter, which scooped three honours – National Dealer of the Year, Regional Dealer of the Year (Region F) and Best Customer Experience.

Winners were selected following a stringent judging process, which saw businesses judged on on the percentage of target sales achieved, finance penetration percentage, sales and service, customer experience and the number of parts and quantity of accessories sold.

The figures were then merged into an overall score, with the top firm in each category taking the titles.

There were five Regional Dealer of Year winners at the event including Donnelly Brothers (Region A), Luscombe Suzuki Leeds (Region B), Cumbria Suzuki (Region C), Eastbourne Suzuki (Region D) and Sportif Suzuki (Region E).

Speaking after the event, David Kateley, director automobile at Suzuki GB, said: ‘Our annual awards are always a fantastic opportunity to recognise the hard work and achievements of our dealer network.

‘It is great to be able to celebrate the dedication and loyalty of our dealerships and I’d like to congratulate all of our winners.

‘Special congratulations goes to the team at Tracks of Exeter who are celebrating their triple win. We look forward to a successful 2025 and meeting again next year to celebrate even more of our achievements.’

Elsewhere, a total of 17 Suzuki dealers were recognised for their long service with the brand. The full list can be seen below:

  • Stoneacre Suzuki (Lincoln) – 10 years
  • Halesowen Motor House – 10 years
  • Read Suzuki – 10 years
  • Hilton Suzuki Bedford – 15 years
  • W J King (Bromley) – 20 years
  • Roadworthy Suzuki – 20 years
  • Donnelly Brothers – 20 years
  • T J Vickers & Sons – 25 years
  • Leslie’s Suzuki – 25 years
  • Stoneacre Suzuki (Peterborough) – 25 years
  • Anthony Betts Suzuki (Hemel Hempstead) – 25 years
  • Stoneacre Suzuki (Durham) – 25 years
  • Park’s Kilbride – 35 years
  • Belmont Suzuki Wallyford – 35 years
  • D. M. Keith Ltd (Huddersfield) – 40 years
  • D. M. Keith Ltd (Keighley) – 45 years
  • Sportif Suzuki – 45 years

The prizes were dished out by former England rugby coach, and failed Southampton FC technical director, Clive Woodward.

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Car dealer punched with knuckleduster in home attack which saw cash and keys stolen

A violent gang punched a car dealer with a knuckleduster during a break in which saw more than £12,000 in keys and cash stolen from his home, a court has heard.

The dealer – who has not been named – was at his home in Plymouth when his ring doorbell went off on the evening of February 17, 2024.

With the salesman in the toilet, the call was answered by his friend who was greeted by four men, who forced entry and told the victim ‘you’ll get shot’

After leaving the toilet, the motor trader shouted for his partner – who was upstairs with their two young children – to call the police before being punched in the stomach by one of the men, who was donning a knuckleduster.

The four men were later identified as Bektas Gurgur, Curtis Smith, Altan Tezcan and Engin Timur with Gurgur said to have used the knuckleduster before kicking the victim on the ground.

Meanwhile, Smith is said to have been holding a knife, with Tezcan brandishing the handgun, which was used as a cosh to hit the car dealer’s friend over the head.

Smith, Tezcan and Timur all pleaded guilty to guilty to aggravated burglary but Gurgur, of Stamford Road, Tottenham, has denied the offence, as well as a second charge of being in possession of an offensive weapon.

The 40-year-old’s trial has now got underway at Plymouth Crown Court where a jury of 10 women and two men heard that the quintet stole £12,500 in car keys and cash – which was in the house after the dealer sold a van.

The men then fled the house and were only identified after Smith dropped a gold bladed knife. Forensic evidence later found his DNA on the knife, leading to the gang’s arrest.

The court also heard evidence from the dealer himself who told the jury he felt ‘scared’ and ’emotional’ following the incident.

He also admitted: ‘My kids were upstairs – it could’ve been much worse.’ the Plymouth Herald reports.

The trial continues.

Pictured: Plymouth Crown Court (via PA Images)

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Subaru dealer hails most loyal customer after handing over 26th new car

A family-run Subaru dealer has been toasting its most loyal customer after handing over his 26th new car.

Bill Nunn has been returning to Adams Brothers in Aylesbury ever since buying a 1995 Legacy Estate more than 30 years ago.

In the three decades since he has bought another 25 cars from the firm, with the latest – a sixth generation Forester – being delivered earlier this year.

Explaining what he loves about the fourth generation family dealer, Nunn said: ‘It is a pleasure to take delivery of my new Forester, the 26th Subaru I’ve bought over the past 30 years.

‘Since buying my first Subaru, the cars have certainly become more modern, capable and spacious, but the core values that set Subaru apart have remained.

‘Subarus are just great cars: always a pleasure to drive, comfortable, reliable and safe. In 30 years covering hundreds of thousands of miles for both work and private use – in all manner of conditions – Subaru has never let me down.

‘Over three decades, the dealer experience has been just as reliable. The team at Adams Brothers have always been attentive, honest and trustworthy; they’re a family business filled with friendly, familiar faces.

‘I couldn’t recommend them highly enough. I’ll certainly be back for more.’

Bosses say Nunn’s loyalty is testament to the work of the team at the dealership, which became a Subaru Main Dealer in the late 1990s.

Dane Adams, managing director, Adams Group, added: ‘We’re delighted to have delivered this landmark 26th car to Bill Nunn, 30 years on from his first Subaru.

‘We are proudly a family-run business, one that puts the customer at the centre of all we do, so this sort of long-standing relationship really is satisfying.

‘Bill’s been the most loyal of Adams’ customers, and in the intervening years has become a great friend, too. He’s always a pleasure to deal with, and we look forward to supporting him with all his Subaru needs for many years to come.’

Bill Nunn’s latest purchase – a a sixth generation Forester

Alex Sheward, national sales manager, Subaru UK & Ireland, concluded: ‘We at Subaru UK & Ireland are proud to have a fantastic base of loyal customers across the country – owners that have put their faith in our vehicles over many decades.

‘Bill might just be the most loyal of all, and we’re honoured to have delivered his 26th Subaru.

‘This is a testament to the enduring owner appeal, quality and reliability of Subarus, as well as the level of honest, caring service offered by our dealer network.

‘We are proud of our hard-earned reputation for quality and customer service – moments like these make all the hard work worthwhile. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Bill for his continued commitment to Subaru and to congratulate the whole team at Adams.’

Main image: Bill Nunn collected his 21st Subaru back in 2020

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WSG partners with Autoglym to help dealers ‘stand out from the crowd’

Warranty Solutions Group (WSG) has announced a new partnership with Autoglym which will see its retail partners benefit from a host of exclusive offers.

Bosses say the new deal ‘brings together two powerhouses in vehicle protection’ with Autoglym’s flagship vehicle protection system set to be rolled out throughout WSG’s dealer partners.

As part of the collaboration, retailers will be given access to exclusive pricing and promotions on LifeShine – Autoglym’s ceramic paint protection system – with hands-on sales training and application support also made available.

Steph Newbery, group director at WSG, said: ‘We are excited to be working with one of the most iconic names in vehicle care to create a true value-add for dealers and drivers alike.

‘This partnership is about more than just product, it’s about shared values. Autoglym’s exceptional quality, British heritage, and relentless focus on innovation align perfectly with WSG’s mission to deliver excellence at every stage of vehicle ownership.

‘By integrating LifeShine into our ecosystem, we’re empowering our dealer network with a high-margin, high-impact solution that builds trust, drives loyalty, and ultimately increases profitability.

‘This partnership marks a major milestone for WSG’s expansion within the franchised dealer sector – a key area of focus where the company continues to see exceptional momentum.’

From Autoglym’s perspective, the new deal sees it gain a ‘direct route’ into WSG’s automotive network, which includes hundreds of car dealers right across the country.

Directors say they are ‘thrilled’ to be working with the warranty company and say the pairing will help dealers ‘stand out from the crowd’.

Anna Houldsworth, global head of paint protection at Autoglym, added: ‘We are thrilled to join forces with Warranty Solutions Group – a partnership that brings real commercial value to dealers.

‘By combining trusted mechanical warranties with Autoglym’s premium LifeShine vehicle protection system, we’re giving retailers a powerful, all-in-one aftersales solution that enhances customer satisfaction and drives bottom-line growth across sales and aftersales.

‘In today’s competitive landscape, a car that’s both protected and perfectly presented builds confidence and creates lasting impressions.

‘Dealers can now simplify operations, reduce training demands, and unlock new high-margin revenue streams, all while offering an elevated ownership experience.

‘This collaboration will enable dealers to strengthen their reputation, stand out from the crowd, and thrive in a rapidly evolving market.’

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Family-run Ford dealership to close down next month with site earmarked for demolition

Ford’s dealer network is to shrink once again next month with a family-run site in Cambridgeshire earmarked for demolition.

TC Harrison Ford in St Neots is to close down on May 16 after planners granted permission for a new retirement village on the site.

The application was given the green light last year and dealer group TC Harrison has now confirmed the final closing date of the popular showroom.

Bosses have insisted that no job losses will come as a result of the closure with all business activities and staff set to relocate to the firm’s nearby Huntingdon branch.

That site, located around 11 miles from the condemned business, is now set to be expanded in order to accommodate the latest growth, the Hunts Post reports.

In a statement, a spokesman for the dealer group said: ‘Following the planning approval for the proposed retirement village on our St Neots premises I can now confirm that all our business activities and staff will be transferring to the Huntingdon dealership on May 16, 2025.

‘Huntingdon is 11 miles from St Neots, just off the A141.

‘We have scheduled a series of announcements to our customer database outlining our collection and delivery services (amongst other offers) to maintain customer convenience.

‘Planning has been approved for further expansion at our Huntingdon dealership and works will commence in due course, and we look forward to welcoming as many of our St Neots customers as we can.’

The news comes amid major cutbacks in the Ford network with the Blue Oval recently terminating 50 car dealerships as part of drive to slash the number of retail points it has in the UK.

In 2020, the brand said it would be axing almost half of its dealerships as it looked to improve profitability.

Away from Ford, several other franchise sites have also closed in recent months, with the likes of Group 1, Lithia, Marshalls and Vertu all making cutbacks in recent months.

You can find out more about the trend here.

Founded in 1931 by Thomas ‘Cuth’ Harrison, dealer group TC Harrison has remained in the same family for 94 years.

Last year the outfit came 16th in our Car Dealer Top 100 list of the UK’s most profitable dealers, with an EBITDA figure of £34.23m.

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Motor Show Despatch: If you’re not worried about Chinese car makers yet – then you very much should be

The winds of change have been blowing gently through the motor industry for a few years now, but after a near-20,000 mile trip across the world, I can feel a hurricane brewing.

Before and after Easter I travelled to two motor shows, on two different continents, in New York and Shanghai – and now, more than ever, I’m convinced one of those super powers will rule the automotive industry.

You could argue America lost its domination of the global car industry some time ago but, in my opinion, the Chinese will soon overtake them, the Europeans, Japanese and the Koreans. Well, in fact, overtake everyone.

While Trump and his tariffs may be trying to reset relationships with trading partners, in the hope that manufacturers will relocate their bases to the States, these futile efforts are really too little too late.

China will be – if it is not already – the dominant force in the automotive industry. The state has watched as the Japanese, and then the Koreans, entered car markets around the world and built huge businesses. 

It’s learned from their mistakes, copied their successful tactics, and is ready to take up the number one spot. 

Nowhere was this more apparent than in the sweaty halls of the Shanghai motor show (pictured top). 

This was my first time in China, hosted by the largest automotive exporter, Chery. Last year, it shipped 1.14m cars across the world. 

The car firm launched Omoda in October 2024, and Jaecoo in January 2025, in the UK and is rapidly gaining traction. 

From a standing start here it sold 3,629 cars last year and this year has already doubled that, registering nearly 6,500 cars in the first quarter.

Think of Chery as a Stellantis, or VW Group. It operates several brands including cars badged with its own name, those already mentioned, as well as many others that are yet to make it to the UK including Lepas, Jetour, Exeed, iCar (below), Luxeed and others. 

At the Shanghai show Chery took up the large proportion of an entire hall with huge stands for its brands. This is a very serious company with big ambitions.

‘The Trump tariffs mean we are focussed on other markets at the moment – the UK is critical,’ said one Chinese executive. 

As I wandered around the huge halls of the show, packed with people, it dawned on me that this is the automotive industry now – this is the future. If you were in any doubt as to how serious the Chinese are, just one look around this show would tell you all you needed to know.

There were brands I knew – Bentley, BMW, Mercedes – showing off their latest models far, far from home. And there were countless brands I didn’t recognise, all showcasing new models that looked just as good as anything you’d find on British roads right now.

While some Chinese brands are always making waves in the UK, there are many more waiting in the wings, watching to see how things pan out. What we have now is just the start.

Just look at the success BYD has made of the UK so far. Already in the first quarter of this year it has sold more cars than it did in the whole of 2024. 

Deploying the same marketing tactics of the Koreans – long warranties and cheap finance deals – the Chinese are on the rampage.

I can’t help thinking the European car makers really have been asleep at the wheel. While car fans might have some questions about Chinese models, most normal car buyers couldn’t care less who made the SUV they’re driving around in. All they want is something that looks stylish, has great tech and doesn’t cost the earth – and the Chinese have all that sewn up.

A week before I had been in New York for the motor show there and it was a disappointment. The halls were practically empty (above) when compared to its Chinese rival and there were few cars of note that would be of any interest for UK buyers. 

While the Shanghai show was spread over eight halls, New York had one.

Cars of note were reserved for a handful of Korean models and two Subarus. It says a lot when you have to include two models from Subaru in a round-up of the best cars of the show. They’re hardly what you’d call ‘mainstream’.

Back in China, I got the chance to try one of Omoda’s latest models. It was the first time I’d been behind the wheel of one and I was surprised at the quality, the multimedia screen was huge and easy to use and the interior felt Lexus-like in its quality (yes, really). I was seriously impressed.

When you stack up what you get from Chinese cars, the deals really are too good to ignore. They’re usually considerably cheaper than equivalents from mainstream manufacturers and Omodas, for example, even come with a seven-year, 100,000 mile warranty and free RAC breakdown cover for the duration. That’s a compelling offer.

Make no mistake, the superpowers of the automotive world reside firmly in the East and from what I’ve seen the sands are shifting incredibly fast. 

There are car manufacturers operating here that really won’t know what’s hit them. They think consumers will care too much about the badge on the front of their cars to ditch the tried and tested car marques and go for something new. How wrong they are. 

If I was sat in the boardroom of one of these legacy car makers I would be very worried indeed. In five years time, the automotive landscape in the UK is set to look very different indeed. And not everyone will make it out alive.

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Vertu Motors aims for improved ‘operational efficiency’ as it signs partnership with Solera Cap HPI

Vertu Motors has agreed a new partnership with Solera Cap HPI as part of a drive to ‘deepen digital integration’ throughout its network.

The deal will see new new software and data solutions rolled out throughout Vertu’s sites with the aim of supporting the group’s ‘operational efficiency’.

All dealerships in the firm’s network will get access to Cap’s provenance checks with pricing set to be influenced by current and forecast vehicle valuations.

It is hoped that the additional data will allow Vertu to refine its smart pricing strategies and further inform decision-making.

David Crane, chief operations officer at the Car Dealer Top 100 group, said: ‘The new agreement builds on our long-standing relationship with Solera Cap HPI.

‘It supports the company’s commitment to data-led decision-making in a fast paced market, with the ability to update vehicle pricing from a central source, bringing even more efficiencies into the group.

‘We use data-driven decision-making across our organisation to generate enhanced returns and deliver a better customer experience. Data drives our omnichannel development, bringing ‘bricks and clicks’ together.’

The announcement follows Vertu’s recent £3.6m investment to grow its footprint in the South West, including the opening of two Volvo dealerships in Yeovil and Plymouth.

Wendy Swaine, head of strategic retail at Solera Cap HPI, added: ‘New investment in our data will see the HPI Check continue to lead the industry and provide our retailers and wider customers with the information they need to accurately buy and sell vehicles.’

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James Taylor confirmed as new Nissan boss following surprise exit from Vauxhall

Nissan has appointed James Taylor as its new UK boss following his departure from Vauxhall earlier this year.

Taylor stood down as Vauxhall’s MD back in February, following 25 years at the British brand, with Car Dealer reporting at the time that he had agreed a move to a rival manufacturer.

It has now been confirmed that he has joined Nissan, where he will take on the same title as he had at Vauxhall, reporting to Mayra González, divisional vice president for marketing and sales at Nissan Europe.

In his new role Taylor will be responsible for launching a swathe of new electrified models including the Micra EV and next generation Leaf.

Commenting on his appointment, the 50-year-old said he was looking forward to working with the Nissan team and its dealer partners.

He said: ‘These are very dynamic times for the automotive industry so now, more than ever, we need to be agile and responsive to business needs and customer demands.

‘Nissan already makes two of the UK’s top-selling cars, has exciting new products on the way and is a brand with real momentum.

‘I look forward to working with the Nissan team, its dealer partners, and other stakeholders to navigate current industry challenges and build the business for sustainable future success.’

The move sees Taylor step away from Vauxhall, where he has spent his entire career, other than stints with its parent companies GM and Stellantis.

He brings expertise in market analysis, sales operations, fleet sales and marketing and bosses Nissan are thrilled to have secured his services.

González added: ‘We are happy to welcome James to the UK team and congratulate him on this appointment.

‘2025 is a hugely important year for Nissan’s largest European market and his experience will be invaluable as we strengthen our operations, accelerate our electrification plans, and evolve our network strategy to better serve our customers and support our dealers.’

Taylor succeeds Diana Torres as managing director and takes up his role from May 1.

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More than £20,000 raised for Ben as motor trade joins 56,000 runners at London Marathon

More than £20,000 has been raised for Ben after the motor industry donned its running shoes at this weekend’s London Marathon.

A total of nine runners completed the 26.2 mile course in support of the motor trade charity, with a total of £21,411 raised at time of writing.

Among the runners was Car Quay boss Jamie Caple, JCT600 stock control manager James Tordoff and Novuna Vehicle Solutions’ Amy Lawrence.

Caple completed the run in five hours, 48 minutes and 28 seconds, placing him 47,385th overall, and raised a impressive £4,110, thanks to generous backing from 74 donors.

The 45-year-old saw off a last minute knee injury to take part in the event, which he spoke about at length on last week’s episode of the Car Dealer Podcast.

Speaking ahead of the event, Caple said: ‘If you’re having a tough time get in touch with Ben.

‘I’m running the London Marathon for Ben. This fat, out of shape, disgraceful, cheeseburger eating, full fat coke drinking, lard a**e who’s never exercised in his life – he’s running a marathon!

‘When I found things particularly tough I’ve gone for a run. It’s helped. When you feel low, just go and move your body, man. It rewards you.’

Meanwhile, Tordoff recorded a time of 05:24:10 and Lawrence 04:49:36, raising £2,372 and £2,296 respectively.

Other competitors from the automotive industry included Popbangcolour artist Ian Cook, who raised £4,724 and completed the course in 05:37:50.

The fastest of Ben’s runners was Stacey Morgan, vice president sales – UK at Corpay, who bagged a time of 04:13:39.

A full list of runners who took part in the marathon in aid of Ben can be be found here:

  • Amy Lawrence, head of marketing at Novuna Vehicle Solutions –04:49:36
  • Dave Lucas, sales director at Mercedes-Benz Retail – 04:35:33
  • Ian Cook, automotive artist at Popbangcolour – 05:37:50
  • James Tordoff, group stock control manager at JCT600 – 05:24:10
  • Jamie Caple, company director at Car Quay Ltd – 05:48:28
  • Macauley Read, parts manager at Yeomans VW & Skoda – 06:27:46
  • Sophie Minnican, account development and social media manager at Simply Thank You – 04:07:12
  • Spencer Davies, group used car manager at Renault Retail Group – 04:15:16
  • Stacey Morgan, vice president sales – UK at Corpay – 04:13:39

Matt Wigginton, director of partnerships, engagement & income at Ben, said: ‘A massive thank you to the incredible team who ran yesterday’s London Marathon, raising awareness and funds to help Ben support people working in the UK automotive industries.

‘To Amy Lawrence, David Lucas, Ian Cook, James Tordoff, Jamie Caple, Macauley Read, Sophie Minnican, Spencer Davies and Stacey Morgan – we can’t thank you enough.

‘Together you’ve raised over £20,000. You’re all superstars and every painful mile will change lives in our industry.

‘That’s something worth running for. Hopefully today you’ll get a chance to rest, relax and recover. Thank you, thank you, thank you.’

Away from the motor trade, Guinness World Records has confirmed that a total of 42 world records were broken at yesterday’s event.

The first was set by Ethiopian runner Tigst Assefa who won the women’s elite race and achieved a new women-only world record with a time of two hours, 15 minutes and 50 seconds, surpassing that of two hours, 16 minutes and 16 seconds set by Peres Jepchirchir during last year’s race.

Radio presenter Adele Roberts also claimed a new world record for the fastest aggregate time to complete all World Marathon Major races with a stoma (female) with a total time of 20 hours, 29 minutes and 58 seconds.

Ali Young, 51, broke the world record of the fastest marathon dressed as a bird (female) with a time of three hours, 26 minutes and 37 seconds.

Those in fancy dress, some wearing restrictive and thick costumes, pushed to complete the race as temperatures hit 22.2C in the capital.

Other records broken included the fastest marathon in a suit (male), the fastest marathon wearing foam clogs (male) and the fastest marathon with Parkinson’s disease (male).

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Official: Used car ad platform Heycar is set to close as Volkswagen pulls the plug

Used car advertising platform Heycar will close after majority shareholders Volkswagen Financial Services pulled the plug.

The used car site launched in the UK in the summer of 2019 aiming to compete with Auto Trader and Motors, but has made heavy losses since.

Its most recent accounts show it made a £22.4m loss in 2023 following a £30m loss in 2022. Revenue for the firm decreased to just £7.4m, its latest annual report revealed.

Following reports on a German website that said Heycar will be closing as soon as next month – leading to potential job losses in Germany, France and the UK – a spokesperson has confirmed the closure to Car Dealer.

Heycar has also been approached for comment, but has so far not responded.

A spokesperson for VWFS told Car Dealer: ‘Heycar has been a pioneer in the online used car marketplace and, despite the decision to wind down their operations, the valuable insights and digital solutions developed so far will play a crucial role in the future of VWFS UK, as we continue to explore new ways to drive growth and innovation in the automotive e-commerce space.’

The firm said it planned to launch a ‘new subsidiary’ that will ‘integrate the technology developed by Heycar’ into its wider business.

A spokesperson for VWFS had earlier told the German website: ‘The shareholders have decided not to provide Heycar with any further funding.

‘We expect that we will have to let go of a large portion of Heycar’s employees. However, we are considering whether some of the UK employees could be taken on by VWFS UK to further expand the used car business in the B2B sector.’

Heycar is said to currently employ 126 people with a large proportion of them based in the UK.

It is expected to close in Germany in mid-May with the UK to follow a few weeks later. A closure in France may be a little slower due to employee laws in the country.

The spokesperson told the German website that it had ‘underestimated’ the marketing costs required to launch the rival used car advertising site and ‘misjudged the development’ needed.

As of today, Heycar has 91,000 cars for sale on its website. For comparison, market leader Auto Trader has 459,000 while Motors/Cazoo has 234,000.

Heycar was launched with a multi-million pound advertising campaign in 2019 backed by Volkswagen Financial Services and Daimler Mobility, which had started Heycar in Germany in 2017.

VWFS was the largest shareholder at 78%, followed by Volkswagen at 13% and Renault at 9%. Early investors Mercedes and insurance company Allianz sold their shares.

Heycar went on a buying spree in the years that followed its launch and snapped up the Honest John website out of administration in February 2020 as well as several lead generation sites. Some of these deals were for seven figure sums.

Last year, it also signed a five-year deal with RAC Cars to take over the running of that used car advertising platform and relaunch it.

Heycar aimed to shake-up the used car advertising marketplace industry by offering customers a different experience. It focussed on younger used cars with more backing for buyers.

After a year of trading, the CEO at the time Matt Moakes said: ‘Other online listings businesses are just digital versions of newspaper ads. That’s not Heycar. 

‘We have features and products that improve the experience whether you’re a dealer or a consumer, the latest of which includes our worry-free money back guarantee, and our new Concierge service which helps car buyers take the stress and inconvenience out of car ownership.’

According to reports, VWFS is believed to have invested more than £250m in Heycar since its launch.

First published April 26, 10:29; Updated with VWFS ULK statement at 15:25

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