HR Owen hopes to begin building its representation with its specialist franchise partners.

John Macarthur, chairman, told the company’s AGM last week that its strategy of focusing on luxury and specialist brands was working and driving improvements in the company’s performance.

“During the first four months of the year we have traded very well, assisted by a very strong forward-order book for new specialist vehicles, although this has been partially offset by the competitive nature of our remaining middle-market franchises.

“In aggregate we have achieved excellent results for the first four months and will now consider good opportunities with our core business partners to add additional specialist franchised outlets to the group's portfolio,” he said.