Peoples is to expand beyond its 42-year history with Ford to include Chinese brands BYD and Omoda/Jaecoo across its dealerships in Scotland and England.
In 2022, Peoples said it was considering new car retail franchise partnerships after years of solely representing Ford. At the time Brian Gilda, chairman of the Falkirk-based AM100 car retail group, suggested that the UK’s economic uncertainty, Ford’s shifting business model and the challenge of transitioning long-standing customers of the now- discontinued Fiesta into a new car had all played a part in the decision.
Announcing its latest financial results which saw a 7.6% drop in turnover to £283.449m and pre-tax profits falling from £7.255m in 2023 to £4.604m, Gilda cited these figures as the reasoning behind the strategic shift despite strong performances in commercial vehicles and record-breaking aftersales.
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Spotlight on the customer
In this issue:
What consumers really want - trends and habits dealers must understand to provide the right buying experience
Barriers to EV purchase - many private motorists need extra help before they take the plunge
Delighting used car buyers - it's essential for retailers to offer tailored experiences and great value
Aftersales customer care - valuable interactions are vital as dealerships face fishing in a diminishing pool
A customer-first future - Steve Young, ICDP MD, gives AM an exclusive insight.
Read nowAuthor:
Aimee Turner
Deputy editor
AM deputy editor Aimée Turner has been a specialist B2B editor and journalist covering the international transportation sector for more than 20 years.
She has specialised in the significant safety, regulatory, and environmental issues that impact advanced technology businesses in the pursuit of more efficient, safer and sustainable transportation modes.
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