Volvo Car UK’s sponsored dealer programme bore its first fruits when dealer principal Chris Carr opened the doors to Volvo Cars Shrewsbury for the first time.

Carr, formerly a sales director at Inchcape, has taken the reins from Greenhous, the former operator of the Featherbed Lane franchised dealership, with a vow that it will remain “business as usual” for customers with all 26 current employees retaining employment with the new company.

Volvo launched its new Sponsored Retailer Programme 18 months ago in a bid to find talented entrepreneurs in the UK motor trade who want to run their own business with full manufacturer support.

This support includes securing the site and providing backing that will enable the individual to access credit facilities that may otherwise be out of reach.

Carr said: “I have worked for a large PLC dealership group for 14 years as a general manager and have held various other senior roles, most latterly as sales director for its Audi division.

“Having the chance to run my own business in partnership with Volvo was an opportunity not to be missed.

“I know the region really well and my family are heavily involved in the local community.

“I am excited to be at the helm of a business representing a Volvo brand that continues to launch amazing new products.”

Jon Wakefield, managing director, Volvo Car UK, said: “We are extremely excited about this partnership with Chris and his team.

“While we will always require a mix of different retail partners for the Volvo network, our Sponsored Retailer Programme offers the chance for entrepreneurs to run their own business with our full support.”

Volvo Car UK was named manufacturer of the year at last month’s AM Awards 2018.

The Swedish premium brand’s XC60 SUV was also named New Car of the Year at the event, which was held at the ICC in Birmingham.