Tom Scott, owner of Jacksons CI in Jersey and Guernsey, is planning to use some of the money from the sale of his Mercedes-Benz dealerships in Poole, Dorchester and Salisbury to buy more mainland dealerships.

In the December 21 issue of AM we reported that Scott had sold his three mainland Mercedes-Benz dealerships to South African Roy McAllister. We also said that Scott was believed to have sold his Channel Islands’ business to Paul Collier because he was retiring. This was a mistake – not only does Scott remain in charge, he is keen to grow.

Jacksons CI’s turnover will fall from around £180m to £120m following the sale of the Mercedes business. Scott has retained the property freehold which includes surplus land that he could use for new franchises.

“We will take the opportunity to reinvest and as we hold most franchises here , it gives us the opportunity to buy in with them,” Scott says.

“The southern half of the UK, from London downwards, appeals most. We are looking at opportunities now and we have set no limit to how big the group can grow.”

Jacksons represents Aston Martin, Audi, Bentley, BMW/Mini, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and Volkswagen in Jersey and Guernsey. It also represents Peugeot, Citroën, Skoda, Mitsubishi, Saab, Lotus, Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover, Nissan, Suzuki and LDV under the trading name Motor Mall on both islands. Growth preference is with the premium franchises.