TMS plans ‘largest investment to date’ with Kia and Volvo Leicester dealership

TMS Motor Group is planning on making its “largest investment to date” with the £10 million development of a new Kia and Volvo franchised car dealership in Leicester.

Property developer HBD – formerly known as Henry Boot – has been appointed to create the new 34,000 square-foot facility on a site off Melton Road, Leicester.

The development will will expand the car retail group’s footprint into a sixth location and is expected to create around 20 jobs.

Len Hallows, the managing director of TMS Motor Group, said: “This development represents the largest investment made by TMS to date – it will combine both Volvo and Kia on one site and provide customers with a modern retail facility with plenty of car parking, along with electric charging points.

“The proposed new site will also provide opportunities for new employment across our business, including apprenticeships.

“It’s a fantastic location close to the outer ring road, coupled with new facilities that will create a relaxed, comfortable environment for customers, with flexible waiting, working and assessment areas that will be designed and built sustainably.”

TMS has been on a restructure and grow trajectory in recent years.

It acquired the Volvo franchise in Leicester from Sturgess Motor Group in October 2019.

Last July the group shrugged off the setbacks of Leicester’s COVID-19 lockdown to acquire Sandicliffe Motor Group’s Kia dealership in the city, taking its representation with the Korean brand up to two sites.

Kia and Volvo have delivered registrations growth so far in 2021.

Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) data showed that the Korean brand is 31.3% up year-to-date to the end of November, at 87,914, while the Swedish premium brand has delivered a registrations rise of 7.1%, to 44,817.

Commenting on uits involvement with TMS’ latest push for growth, HBD development surveyor, Josh Spicer, said: “We’re pleased to be working with TMS to deliver a new dealership for Leicester – it’s positive to see investment being ploughed into the city, driving up confidence and creating new jobs.

“Melton Road is very well-located, providing straightforward access for both TMS and its customers, and I’ve no doubt it will prove a successful addition to the Group.”