- 2012 has already seen six new projects completed
- Over 20 major franchising changes to UK network in 2011
Continuing its record franchising growth in 2011, ŠKODA UK has already seen six new developments in 2012, including two new operations with the Arnold Clark Group in Scotland and a new opening in Bury St. Edmonds with Vindis.
Further new appointments and other site improvements are planned throughout 2012, including the start of the roll-out of ŠKODA’s new showroom designs.
The 2012 appointments continue ŠKODA’s impressive franchising achievements in 2011, which saw over 20 improvements to SKODA’s UK network. A wide range of new businesses and continued expansion at existing sites reinforced ŠKODA UK’s retail presence, positioning the brand to deliver against ambitious growth targets over the coming years.
Twelve open points were filled in 2011 by the manufacturer. New sites included Essex Auto Group, Rayleigh; Trust Group in Redditch and Stourbridge; Progress, Northampton and Lookers, Stockport. In addition, ŠKODA has secured a further three changes of ownership and five major developments on existing sites.
The award-winning Yeti and Superb models, along with the rest of ŠKODA’s strong model range have created increased demand, with total sales of over 45,000 in 2011 and a market share of 2.3%.
ŠKODA is rated highly by customers for owner satisfaction, topping the 2011 Auto Express Driver Power survey and being rated third in the JD Power Study of Customer Satisfaction, the 18th consecutive year that ŠKODA finished in the Top Ten.
These strengths have driven interest from key regional dealer groups, as well as existing retailers looking to capitalise upon the brand’s success.
Stephen Shepherd, ŠKODA UK National Franchise Manager describes the brand’s philosophy: “Our strategy is about creating a ‘blended’ partner profile. We want to keep the best of our traditional independent partners – working alongside them to drive investment in their facilities, people and processes.
“At the same time, we have targeted strong, regional groups sucessfully to fill open points and acquire businesses that have become available. The achievements of 2011 are evidence of the success this strategy has and will continue to have.”
