Fast-growing Waylands Automotive has completed the acquisition of Cambridge Garage, which operates in Havant and Petersfield, from the Stringer family.
The deal strengthens Waylands’ Volvo representation, taking the group to seven Volvo dealerships and extends its presence further along the South Coast.
The business last year bought Volvo Gloucester from Johnson Cars following the acquisition from Johnsons Cars’ Volvo Cars Swindon and Volvo Oxford car dealership in 2018.
The AM100 dealership group acquired its first Volvo dealership in Reading in November 2017 and Fawcetts Volvo in May 2018.
Waylands grows Volvo network
Cambridge ARC, the Stringer family’s sister bodyshop business, is not part of the transaction and will remain under the family’s ownership.
John O’Hanlon, chief executive at Waylands, said: “Cambridge Garage has built a strong reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction, and we look forward to welcoming colleagues and customers to Waylands.”
He added: “As a family-led business with a long-term approach to growth, we place high importance on maintaining the culture and local relationships that have made Cambridge Garage successful.
“This acquisition reflects our ambitious expansion strategy, while remaining true to our values of honesty and integrity, focus and care. We are committed to building on Cambridge Garage’s established reputation and ensuring that the dealerships continue to operate with the same customer-focused ethos that has defined both businesses.”
Cambridge brand stays in place
The dealerships will continue to operate under the Cambridge Garage brand to provide continuity for colleagues and customers, with all current employees joining the Waylands team.
Last year, Waylands Automotive added three new car brands to its portfolio through an acquisition of the Honda, Omoda and Jaecoo dealerships, previously operated by HSH Motor Group, a deal which saw Waylands expand into Wales for the first time.
Waylands now represents Volvo, Polestar, Kia, Honda, Omoda, Jaecoo and MG across 17 locations in the South and employs more than 500 colleagues across its dealership network.
Ensure you always receive AM insights. Make us a preferred source of news on Google