Staff headcount at iVendi is set to “almost double” over the next three years, in support of expansion plans in the UK and Europe, says chief executive James Tew.

The online automotive finance software specialist said that the business's number of software developers would increase by more than 100% and that an “ambitious” recruitment campaign is underway in this area.

Daniel Glenn recently joined iVendi as vice president of technical operations, responsible for building an IT team that will expand to support the company’s growth plans.

Tew said that iVendi plans to “maximise the presence” of its vehicle retailing platform, in existing markets while expanding into other countries across Europe.

He said: “We have created strong foundations and now intend to build imaginatively on our achievements to date.

“Having a developer team that is far in excess of the capabilities of our competitors, both in terms of capacity and ability, is an important part of this strategy. Our aim is to deliver both existing and new solutions faster and more effectively than anyone else.”

In 2020, iVendi reported that online motor retail is dividing into a market of simple and complex transactions in an emerging trend, heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the first 10 days of the start of the new lockdown measures in England, on November 5, iVendi reported 33% growth in the number of ‘digital deals’ sent by car, van and motorcycle retailers via the platform.

Tew added that iVendi was intending to expand on the connected retail concept – “the unifying factor” behind the ENGAGE, CONVERT AND TRANSACT product range launched in 2020.

iVendi also signed a deal to provide motor finance technology for new and used car platform YesAuto, last year.