6:39 am, October 9, 2008
HR Owen’s new Chiswick Volvo dealership could form the blueprint for future city centre-based outlets for the Swedish maker.
£8m was invested in the 0.9-acre site, which is situated next to London’s North Circular Road.
The unique part is Volvo’s involvement. The maker had a hand in locating and setting up the outlet – and expects this approach to develop in the future, as part of the brand’s franchise review.
‘We believe the way forward for encouraging investment in our franchise is through a partnership approach with potential dealers,’ said Kevin Meeks, network and business development manager at Volvo Car UK.
‘We can use our expertise to locate and develop the site, and support its operation with a partner who is committed to running the site professionally.’
‘Volvo has a good level of representation throughout the country, but in some areas more impactful sites would strengthen its presence in the UK market.’
The new site, on which work was started back in June 2007, houses a 14-car two-floor new car showroom, external space for 50 used models, and an eight-bay workshop.
HR Owen’s fourth Volvo site, it will employ over 30 people.
Tracey Perry, HR Owen’s divisional director, said: ‘We are building up our marketing efforts for new and used vehicle sales now that the site is staffed and operational. We are fully equipped to take care of customers’ service and maintenance needs, and have transferred expertise from our existing sites.
‘So far, the local customer feedback has been great – Volvo owners in West London are delighted to have this facility at their disposal. We are very proud to be operating such a fantastic facility in partnership with Volvo.’
