Vertu Motors makes Honda dealership acquisition

Vertu Motors has taken over the Honda Exeter dealership from fellow AM100 motor retailer Hendy Group.

The addition of Honda Exeter to Vertu's existing dealerships representing the Japanese brand in Plymouth and Truro secure Vertu a market area across Devon and Cornwall.

Honda UK has been adjusting its retail network to create stronger market area representation and to slightly reduce its number of overall franchise investors.

In 2023 Honda UK's head of automobile Rebecca Adamson said the network of 115 sales points held by around 50 franchise investors will drop further to just below 100 sites, and slightly fewer franchisees.

The steps are being taken to help preserve profitability of the network.

Hendy Group still has Honda dealerships at Eastleigh and Portsmouth in Hampshire, plus at Tonbridge in Kent.

Chris Taylor, group operations director at Vertu Motors, stated: “We have a long and successful association with Honda in the UK and are very proud to welcome the valued experience of the colleagues, and loyal customers at Honda Exeter to Vertu Motors.”

Robert Forrester, chief executive of Vertu Motors, said: “We are thrilled to add Honda Exeter to the Vertu portfolio. This business is a great addition to the group and the acquisition is a testament to our commitment to growth in the South-West of England.”

Acquisitions in 2022 and 2023 expanded Vertu Motors' footprint into the south-west of England.