Peter Vardy: How to build ‘a world-class organisation’ (in 10 years)

The privately owned AM100 dealer group has grown steadily and profitably, and marked its 10th anniversary this year by issuing shares in the business to its workforce. For several years, it has donated 10% of its profits to the Peter Vardy Foundation, which supports good causes locally.

It puts great emphasis on working hard, working cleverly, so that everyone can reap the rewards – it’s not all for the benefit of the Vardy family.

Chief executive Peter Vardy said: “The ethos is trying to be more like a family business, because we’ve got the ability to do that, not being a PLC and the size that we are. We try to make sure people don’t take kindness for softness. But you’ve got genuine interest in doing the right thing by the people that work for you.