Patterson has announced its annual results, with vehicle sales up 3% on 2003.

In 2004 Patterson sold a record 13,000 new, used cars and commercial vehicles. Turnover increased to £191m from £180m in 2003.

This year the company, previously a Ford-only operation, won the Seat franchise.

The deal is expected to boost sales by 5% in 2005 and push turnover past the £200m barrier for the first time.

Strong January sales figures have also been boosted by the introduction of the new Ford Focus at Patterson’s dealerships in Shiremoor, Hexham and Forth Street and Scotswood Road in Newcastle.

David White, sales director at Patterson, says: “The motor retail market faces tough competition from across the globe, particularly with the increase in the number of manufacturers in Japan and Korea. However, our results show that UK motor retailers that are prepared to adapt can still remain very competitive.

“People are still buying new cars, despite the perceived cooling down of the housing market. Even if consumer spending slows considerably, people will still be looking for competitive deals on new and used cars.”