Lithia UK has expanded its South Wales footprint with the acquisition of Citroën and Peugeot retail operations in Newport from Stellantis &You.
The deal strengthens its Evans Halshaw trading division’s longstanding relationship with Stellantis and increases its representation of both brands, taking its Peugeot network to eight stores and Citroën to 12 nationwide.
Newport growth
As part of the acquisition, Evans Halshaw’s existing Vauxhall Newport operation will relocate into the newly acquired site on Newport Retail Park, creating a larger multi-brand retail destination.
The business has also secured additional land adjacent to the site and plans to invest in future development to enhance the customer experience at the store.
The acquisition builds on Evans Halshaw’s expansion across key UK regions and strengthens parent company Lithia UK’s presence in South Wales, following recent acquisitions of stores from Read Motor Group, Hatfields and Arden.
Gary Armstrong, managing director of Evans Halshaw, said: “This acquisition allows us to build on our existing presence in Newport and bring multiple brands together into a single, enhanced location. As part of the deal, we will be growing our team, while continuing to deliver a high standard of service to both new and existing customers.
Stellantis ties
Stellantis is a key OEM partner for Evans Halshaw, with the retailer representing Peugeot, Citroën, DS, Vauxhall, Fiat, Abarth, Jeep and Alfa Romeo.
Steve Spicer, group vice president at Lithia UK, said: “This is an important step in strengthening our presence in Wales and continuing to grow our representation across key volume brands. The Newport store presents a strong opportunity for us to invest, develop and create a compelling retail environment for both customers and colleagues alike.”
Further acquisition
Driveway Vehicle Solutions, Lithia UK’s fleet and leasing arm, earlier this week announced it had acquired Agility Fleet, the Bromsgrove-based contract hire and leasing business.
The deal, which completed on 29 April, will see Driveway Vehicle Solutions absorb Agility Fleet’s managed vehicle portfolio, FCA registration, and operational expertise.
The acquisition adds more than 1,200 vehicles to the Driveway Vehicle Solutions fleet overnight, and follows the recent rebrand of the business.
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