JCB Group’s Euro Skoda dealership in Crawley Down has officially opened following a £500,000 investment which quadrupled the franchise’s retail capacity.

The new Snow Hill showroom, which is linked to the group’s existing Seat franchise, lies just a few minutes from junction 10 of the M23 and replaces a smaller, ageing showroom – allowing the group to improve its customer offering and extend its provision of used vehicles and aftersales offering.

Jon Thwaites, Skoda brand manager at the JCB Group, said that the franchise point had built up a strong reputation for its expertise and customer-friendly approach since becoming a Skoda centre three years ago, but added that “It was proving difficult to provide the high level of service we’ve become known for, largely due to space restrictions.”

Commenting on the new dealership facility, Thwaites said: “I’m delighted that we’ve been able to invest in such an innovative brand at this high-profile location.

“Our new significantly larger site allows for vastly improved parking facilities, a much larger array of new and used Skodas on display, a barista-style customer-waiting area with complimentary wifi and a separate dedicated area for car configuration, where customers can build their perfect car online.”

Euro Skoda Crawley Down’s stock of approved used cars has also benefited from the changes.

The forecourt is dedicated to 120 pre-owned cars, while inside web-enabled touchscreens allow customers to search JCB Group’s 1,000-strong stock of used vehicles.

The workshop has also doubled in size with each bay equipped with the very latest diagnostic and servicing technology.

JCB Group managing director, Jonathan Bischoff, said: “The new Euro Skoda facility really sets the standard for automotive retailing in the UK with truly first-class customer and employee environments.

“There’s some fabulous new technology in operation that will really enhance the whole visitor experience and allow us to further improve our customer service and interaction.

“I’m delighted to be able to welcome both loyal and new customers to experience these wonderful products in this amazing setting.”

The independently-owned, Gillingham-based JCB Group now employs over 500 staff throughout Kent and Sussex.