Reg Vardy plc has taken control of the territory for Mercedes-Benz passenger cars in the east of Glasgow. The expansion of the business sees the franchise area of Bellshill brought under the group's control at its Mercedes-Benz of Glasgow dealership in Milton Street.

Up to 20 employees from Bellshill, which closes today, have been offered jobs with Reg Vardy.

It has been chosen by Mercedes-Benz as its partner in the West of Scotland. Together with Glasgow, the new strategic area includes an existing operation in Giffnock and a new dealership in Ayr, which opens today, with the initial creation of 36 jobs.

Jamie Crowther, Mercedes-Benz manager of the region with Reg Vardy, said: “The fact Mercedes-Benz has selected Reg Vardy to take the brand forward in the West of Scotland demonstrates its confidence in us to provide the high quality levels of customer satisfaction, expertise and advice and seamless aftersales service that both the manufacturer and customers demand.”

The Milton Street site will soon see a new showroom, plus increased servicing and MoT test capacity.