Durham car dealership defies national trends

A Durham-based car dealership has reported record-breaking sales for September, with continued strong performance into October, defying national trends in the automotive market.

Croxdale Group Durham achieved exceptional results despite a four per cent drop in private car sales nationally for September, according to the Society of Manufacturer and Motor Trader (SMMT), which marked the worst September for new car sales this century barring the pandemic-affected 2022.

By contrast, Graham Elliott, general sales manager at Croxdale, said: “In September, we had the best result the garage has ever had in its existence in terms of sales, selling at least 300 cars.”

Vicki Halse, group chief financial officer, described the team’s performance in September and October, as “phenomenal”, adding: “It has been extremely hard, but the results proved worth it for everyone involved.

“We have demonstrated that the team are very motivated when it comes to reaching the goals that have been set - everyone’s pulled together and it’s paid off.”

The dealership’s success follows a £500,000 investment in its servicing and repair centre, creating 20 new jobs and modernising its facilities. The group also boasts an inventory of over 200 approved used vehicles and an extensive range of new models.

While the national market saw a further six per cent decline in October, Croxdale Group attributes its robust performance to a dedicated team, high standards and a comprehensive customer service offering.

As part of the Stellantis Spoticar programme, the Croxdale Group provides 12 months of warranty and roadside assistance on Stellantis pre-owned vehicles, with additional coverage for non-Stellantis models. Stellantis brands include Citroen, DS, Peugeot, Vauxhall, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Jeep and Abarth.

With a growing focus on electric vehicles, Croxdale Group remains committed to meeting customer demand across all fuel types, ensuring a diverse selection for those yet to transition to EVs.

Anthony Rockingham, managing director at Croxdale, added: “There has never been a better time to go electric due to the deals on offer, but we attract a wide range of customers who can be assured of a great deal on any new or used vehicle, whether an EV or ICE model.

“We ensure we have got the cars pre-ordered in anticipation of demand, so customers never have to wait for their vehicle to come into stock.

“We have a good idea of what’s going to be popular based on the offers that are coming through and, rather than waiting for the demand, we pre-order so we have the stock ready to go.

“It’s more of a risk on our part, but we have formed a formidable, proactive team who are getting it right and ensuring there’s no need for customers to go anywhere else.”

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