Johnsons Cars has added Ford to its list of franchise partners with the acquisition of four new dealerships.

The Redditch-based AM100 retail group has added Alex Lawrie Škoda in Liverpool, Chambers Mazda and Chambers Hyundai in Tamworth and Chambers Ford in Sutton Coldfield into what is now a 37-site operation, with six Hyundai and four Mazda franchised sites.

In its 2016 annual results the group said that it would “continue with its policy of expansion as and when opportunities arise.”

The Johnsons group’s 2016 accounts recorded a turnover of £321.6m and profit before tax of £2.8m.

A statement issued by Johnsons about its new additions revealed that all four locations will continue to operate as before with “the large majority of personnel” remaining in place.

Johnsons Cars’ geographic reach stretches from Oxfordshire to the Northwest, representing a range of brands, including: Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Honda, Hyundai, Lexus, Mazda, Seat, Škoda, Toyota, Volvo and Volkswagen. 

Chambers of Sutton was established in 1921 originally as a Ford cycle shop, and has grown to a dual site motor retail business representing three of the most established brands in the UK.

ASE corporate finance executive, Adam Cottam, who brokered the Chambers deal and advised the owners alongside PKF Cooper Parry in Birmingham, said: “Johnsons have added Ford to their already extensive portfolio of brands in a great location which enable them to continue to build on the success they’ve built over many years.  Adding another Mazda and Hyundai point to their network of dealerships will also strengthen their future earnings potential”

“It’s great to see Nigel and the family get the exit they wanted and enjoy some rest after many years of hard work growing a fantastic business.  They’ve invested a lot of time and effort to get it to where it is now, so the break is fully deserved.”