Westover Group Confirms Acquisition of George Hartwell's Three Peugeot Sites

As part of its continuing expansion, Westover - the region's leading independent motoring group - has confirmed its acquisition of three Peugeot dealerships. All existing staff at the sites in Poole, Christchurch and Ferndown, which were previously owned by George Hartwell, will be retained and integrated into the Westover Group.

"We're delighted to be able to incorporate Peugeot into our portfolio for the first time," says Peter Wood, Westover Chairman. "Our immediate priority is to ensure continuity for customers and staff - many of whom have been loyal regulars for more than a decade. The transfer of ownership will be seamless as far as customers are concerned. Anyone already familiar with the showrooms should notice very little change.

"The purchase comes at a time when Peugeot is seeking a level of stability from its operators that allows for future investment in showrooms and aftersales facilities. Despite current competitive market conditions, Westover is able to offer the financial flexibility that is required and we will simply be bringing long-term economic stability to the equation."

Andrew Hartwelll, Managing Director of George Hartwell, adds. "We were anxious to ensure continuity, so we're delighted that our staff are secure and that our customers will benefit from Westover's first rate service. the sale made good economic sense for us, but it also means that local Peugeot drivers will see improved provision in the long term, thanks to Westover's size and its commitment to the region."

The acquisition takes the number of sites in Westover Group - the region's largest independent motor retailer -  to 21. As well as its specialist after sales and bodycare centres in Poole and Salisbury, the Group operates Fiat, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lexus, Nissan, Renault and Skoda, Sportscars and Toyota dealerships across Wiltshire, Dorset and Hampshire. Each site sells new, used and ex-demonstrator vehicles and also offers a wide range of aftersales services. With the integration of the Peugeot business, Westover now employs close to 600 people locally and has built its reputation on unbeatable standards of customer care.