Snows Motor Group plans target Toyota and Lexus dealership for Poole

Snows Motor Group is aiming to introduce a Toyota dealership to Poole through the creation of a new dual franchise dealership including space for the Japanese carmaker’s Lexus premium brand.

A planning application submitted to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council (BCP Council) outlines plans for the of 1433 square metre retail facility, which the AM100 car retail group wants to develop on the site of a former car storage facility on Yarrow Road, Poole.

The Bournemouth Echo reported that, if successful, the plans would result in the introduction of a Toyota showroom to the South Coast town for the first time.

Hendy Group currently operates Lexus’ Poole franchise on West Quay Road and a Toyota dealership, less than two miles away, in nearby Bournemouth.

A spokesperson for Gillings Planning, on behalf of Snows Motor Group, said: “The proposal will bring forward an allocated employment site enabled to provide commercial floor space and local jobs in the area.

“The new facility will benefit from good high-quality customer showrooms, staff workshops and admin facilities and will allow the site to contribute to the local economy.

“The proposal comprises a well-designed and high-quality building, which is of a scale that responds to the surrounding area and respects the layouts of neighbouring commercial uses."

Snows intended site for its new Toyota and Lexus dealership is adjacent to Breeze Motor Group's existing Volkswagen franchise.

The Bournemouth Echo reported that there was no record of any previous commercial use on the plot.

It added: “Investment in the site and building by Snows Motor Group represents a significant commitment to the Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch area.”

Southampton-based Snows Motor Group currently has 52 franchised dealerships across south and southwest England and is embarking on a determined growth drive.

In December it reported record financial results in its 60th anniversary year, with turnover up 30.5% to £486.4 million and pre-tax profits growth of 183% to £7.6m in 2021.

The group acquired two-site Vauxhall retailer Picador in August last year and further expanded its Vauxhall and Citroen franchise representation through the acquisition of two Hampshire dealerships from J Davy last month.