Reg Vardy has appointed Brown Brothers, part of the Unipart Group of Companies, to supply refinish and bodyline products to its 11-strong bodyshop network.

The automotive retailer says it awarded the contract to the aftermarket supply giant because of its wide range of profit-driven, value-added products, including IT support and the “profit from control” programme, which was developed help to improve bodyshops' profitability.

Brown Brothers' bodyshop-specific programme monitors key performance indicators and supplies controls on bodyshop spending and wastage as well as a providing a regional benchmark.

News of the contract comes after the AM100 No 4 listed car retailer launched one of the biggest UK parts supply operations with the opening of a 22,000 sq. ft centre near Durham. Initially, the scheme is for north east dealers only. But if it proves successful, the scheme could be rolled out across its 91-strong dealer network.

The Vardy group already uses Brown Brothers' Allocator system, which controls and monitors all workshop consumables. It is also considering introducing the Brown Brothers Health and Safety Diary system to build on existing schemes in place to deal with increasingly stringent workplace legislation.