BMW names best-performing UK car dealers in 2021

BMW UK has named Williams Motor Group's Rochdale dealership as its Retailer of the Year 2021 at its annual dealer awards.

A total of eight trophies were handed out at the event, which took place virtually on February 10.

Chris Brownridge, chief executive officer, BMW Group UK, said: “The BMW Retail Network excelled last year against the backdrop of significant headwinds which confronted the entire automotive industry. Despite these challenges, BMW successfully launched numerous class-leading, innovative models including the all-new iX.

"Our retailers seized the opportunity these new products offered, whilst providing our customers with the brilliant customer service that is our brand's signature.

“I'm incredibly proud of all our retailers - each and every team worked hard to make the most of what wasn't an easy year. Their efforts mean that we have started 2022 in a very strong position and we are delighted to celebrate their achievements this evening.”

Comedian Hugh Dennis hosted the ceremony, which saw Inchcape Ipswich, Bowker and Stephen James Bromley pick up the awards for Sales, Marketing and Financial Services, respectively.

Ocean Plymouth took home the Customer Service award, while North Oxford Garage won the Aftersales category.

The Best Newcomer award champions an individual who has recently joined a retailer and made an impressive contribution from the outset. The title was awarded to Jordan Lindley of Stratstone Leeds.

Adam Chambers, of Vines Redhill, took home the award for Head of Business.

Owen Duncan, head of business at Williams Rochdale, said: “I am absolutely delighted for my team at Williams Rochdale BMW for this very prestigious award. Everyone has worked extremely hard throughout last year with the challenges of the pandemic and the ever changing market place.

"Being a family owned business which started over 113 years ago, we have fantastic foundations and structure in place to perform at the highest level. It is an absolute pleasure and honour to have led this team and I am so happy for everyone not only at Rochdale but in the Williams Group for this recognition - I cannot say more except thank you to everyone at BMW UK.”

Craig Strike, BMW/Mini franchise director for Inchcape, added: “This brilliant result is testament to the hard work that both teams have put into maintaining their top KPI rankings and delivering a consistent performance all year and I look forward to continuing and building on these excellent results.”

Hot on the heels of its recent win as Retailer of the Year for Mini, Inchcape Chelmsford was named Area 6 Retailer of the Year at the BMW Retailer of the Year Awards.

Park’s Motor Group’s BMW Hamilton dealership claimed the headline trrophy at the 2020 BMW Retailer of the Year Awards.