Haydock Finance has moved into car retailing after acquiring three dealerships in Lancashire. The finance specialist has also received planning permission for a new car showroom on the outskirts of Blackburn.

The acquisition of Steve Durkin in Burnley and former Crystal Ball superstores Central Car Sales, Accrington, and Syd Abrams, Manchester, will position Haydock as a "one-stop shop for all vehicle and motor finance needs", said managing director Jon Wilkinson. The business sources vehicles from mainland dealers.

The new car superstore in Blackburn, expected to open next year, is projected to turnover £50m, creating 70 jobs in the first year, rising to more than 100 once fully operational.

Haydock has also launched a vehicle management business with offices in Bristol and Torquay offering contract hire and PCPs, and is looking for an insurance partner.

Sharon Leeson, Haydock marketing manager, said: "The dealerships are not a compromise on our dealer relationships. We want to further our partnerships with them, supporting their marketing and working to develop their businesses."

The three superstores are due to be rebranded at the end of the month. (November 9, 2001)