The Manheim subsidiary, Portfolio Europe, has announced plans for a major push into new markets in the UK and mainland Europe. A number of appointments are being made to support the expansion plans and heading the list are two leading industry figures, Guy Thomas and Drew Tyrrell. Both previously directors of 2nd Byte, they are taking up key roles at director level within Portfolio’s European operation.

The company provides in-showroom and online used vehicle marketing solutions for manufacturers and retail dealers. Recently, new contracts have seen the opening of offices in Belgium, Spain, France and Australia.

Portfolio Europe provides services to 15 automotive brands including Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Jeep, MG Rover, Saab, Seat, Skoda and Volkswagen, maintaining 18 national used car locators which support over 1,800 retail dealers.

Mike Pilkington, managing director of Portfolio Europe, says: "Guy and Drew bring a wealth of experience and we’re really delighted to have them on board. The demand for our products and services is growing exponentially and we’re just starting to see the emergence of true multi-market requirements, with an increasing number of our clients looking at common solutions to support a number of countries."

Thomas and Tyrrell will initially be focussing on those customers looking for pan-European remarketing management solutions, working from the company’s Belgium offices.