Manheim launches Gloucester super centre for commercial vehicles

Manheim Auction Services is investing a substantial seven-figure sum to transform its existing site in Gloucester into a specialised hub with over 1,000 vans and trucks on sale every month.

This business said the new facility will be the largest physical auction space for commercial vehicles in the UK, offering an unparalleled in-lane auction experience.

Manheim Auction Services expects to sell over £15 million worth of vehicles each month through the new fortnightly sales events, which will draw as many as 5,000 buyers both in-person and online.

For the first time in the UK, LCV and HGV stocks will be auctioned simultaneously, with all vehicles available for pre-auction viewing before being driven through the auction lanes.

Liam Quegan, managing director of wholesale at Cox Automotive, stated: “The commercial vehicle sector is seeing an exciting resurgence. This investment not only meets current demand but also highlights our ambition to provide the best auction experience for our customers.

“Our Gloucester site has a long-standing reputation in the LCV sector, and this new development will establish the same level of prominence in the HGV market. There is considerable overlap between vendors and buyers interested in both vans and trucks, and they are eager for a more extensive, high-energy physical auction experience. This expansion is our response to that demand.”

Matthew Davock, director of commercial vehicles at Manheim, added: “Our goal for Manheim Gloucester is to make every sale a vibrant event, filled with energy and showcasing LCV and HGV assets that buyers can see, touch, and hear in person.

“By concentrating more stock into a fortnightly sales programme led by a team dedicated exclusively to commercial vehicles, we are setting a new standard. The response from our team and customers has been overwhelmingly positive, and I am eagerly anticipating the grand opening!”

Rob Atkinson, director of HGV and industrial at Manheim, commented: “Gloucester will become the central hub for a significant portion of Manheim’s HGV operations in the UK, with about 70% of our volume being sold through this new combined in-lane and Simulcast sales program. This marks a significant return to physical auctions for HGVs and machinery, and represents a key milestone in the expansion of our truck and plant operations.”

The 9-acre site, conveniently located off the M5 near Dursley, Gloucestershire, is scheduled to open in the autumn, with further details on the sales program to be announced in September.