Yorkshire festive focus: Matt Dale, The G3 Group (UK)

As Christmas is only weeks away, and the businesspeople of Yorkshire are preparing to hang up their stockings, Bdaily is catching up with the region’s business leaders to reflect on the highlights of 2016 and how they plan on spending the holiday period.

For the series’ next instalment, we are speaking with Matt Dale, director of Leeds-based automotive brand The G3 Group (UK).

What were the three biggest highlights for your business in 2016?

• Implementing a new programme of physical auctions – which have proven to be highly successful!
• Increasing staff levels by over 50% since January, as well as attracting a generation of new senior management to help elevate the business to the next level.
• Broadening our client base by providing the industry’s leading auction service, which has also enhanced our financial returns.

What are your business’ goals going into 2017?

Expansion through acquisition is a key goal for us. This will increase our physical footprint throughout the UK – both locally and nationally – allowing us to provide a comprehensive service to the market.

We’ll also increase our 360-degree offering across our automotive brands – which include remarketing, asset management, debt recovery, de-fleet services and leading technology software.

Anything you/your business would have done differently over the past year?

I wish we had expanded sooner but the constraints around suitable business premises continue to stifle business growth – especially in the automotive sectors. where land mass is more important than shed size and commercial developers are always looking, understandably, to maximise shed coverage to increase returns.

If the government took a more sensible approach to business rates, then it would help encourage businesses to expand – which would create further employment opportunities.

Why do you think Yorkshire is a great place to do business?

I feel that Yorkshire is on a crest of a wave – somewhat due to the efforts of the entire Tour de Yorkshire team, and the general ‘feel-good factor’ associated with the county’s sporting achievements.

Any other company/companies in the region stand out for you?

In our sector, there are a few companies that stand out to me. But regionally, I think that Zenith has excelled. The company has expanded its offering whilst maximising returns for its principal shareholders and providing first-class customer service – something that’s incredibly important to remember when embarking on a programme of growth.

What does Yorkshire want to see happen in the future/next year?

Investment in infrastructure – not just road and rail, but telecommunications too. These are the biggest factors that will stifle Yorkshire’s ability to grow.

What individual goals did you achieve personally/professionally in 2016?

In a work setting, I’m proud that we’ve improved our service levels and overall profitability – something myself and the team have worked hard to achieve.

I’m also delighted that as a company we’ve raised £30,000 for Pontefract’s The Prince of Wales Hospice – a charity close to my heart. We’ve donated company funds and on a more personal level, I embarked on four marathons and an ultra-marathon, to fundraise for the cause.

How to you unwind after a stressful day at work?

Going for a run or just turning the laptop off!

What would be the perfect Christmas gift for you?

Spending time with my children and family. It doesn’t get much better in my opinion!