Duckworth Motor Group has acquired the Jaguar Land Rover Norwich franchise from Group 1 Automotive for an undisclosed sum as the AM100 dealer group continues its planned exit from JLR retailing in the UK.
The family-owned retailer took over the Maple Way, Postwick site on June 5, with the business now trading as Duckworth Jaguar Land Rover Norwich.
The acquisition marks the latest development in Group 1 Automotive’s decision to divest its UK Jaguar Land Rover operations as part of a wider portfolio optimisation programme.
Last year, the US-owned dealer group revealed plans to sell or relinquish its JLR franchise operations in the UK, citing challenging market conditions, margin pressure and rising operating costs.
At the time, Group 1 said it had informed JLR of its intention to dispose of the business as part of a broader review of its UK dealership portfolio.
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Duckworth expands JLR representation
The Norwich acquisition expands Duckworth Motor Group’s representation of the JLR brands into East Anglia, adding to its existing Land Rover businesses in Market Rasen and Boston.
Ben Duckworth, managing director of Duckworth Motor Group (pictured), said: “This expansion is an exciting step forward for the company and the growth reflects our relationship and commitment to JLR, representing the four brands of Defender, Discovery, Range Rover and Jaguar, as well as the hard work of our team.
“Since 1980 the Duckworth family has grown its business with the JLR brands and is excited about the JLR franchises for East Anglia.
“We aim to ensure clients have a seamless transition to the new name, with existing orders and contracts moving across to Duckworth Motor Group.”
Duckworth has represented Land Rover since 1980 and said customers would continue to receive support for existing orders and contracts following the ownership change.
Financial due diligence and transactional support on the Norwich deal was provided by Cooper Parry and Fieldfisher.
Ian McMahon, head of automotive at Cooper Parry, said: “The acquisition of this additional point of representation for Duckworth Motor Group, is a great way to build their market area representation, and with it the ability to invest in the brand and the local economy.
“I have little doubt that the detailed product and customer knowledge that the Duckworth business will bring to the new site will allow the team there to deliver a great experience for customers.”