One of Britain's leading automotive retailers is conducting a significant review that could result in the closure of three established car dealerships across the South West of England. Vertu Motors, which operates approximately 200 locations nationwide, is evaluating the financial viability of three specific sites, potentially marking the end of an era for a business that has served local communities for decades.
Historic Dealership Faces Uncertain Future
The review focuses particularly on Truscott's of Launceston, a landmark Peugeot dealership in North Cornwall that first opened its doors in the 1970s. Having served generations of drivers for nearly half a century, this location represents one of the longest-running automotive businesses in the region. Alongside this historic site, the review also encompasses the Barnstaple Peugeot and Barnstaple Volvo dealerships in Devon, creating potential disruption for customers across both counties.
Financial Viability Assessment Underway
A spokesperson for Vertu Motors plc confirmed the company has undertaken careful financial assessments of all three locations. The statement explained: "We have carefully reviewed the financial viability of our Launceston Peugeot, Barnstaple Peugeot and Barnstaple Volvo dealerships, and made the difficult decision to enter consultation with our colleagues at these locations, with a view to potentially closing them in early February."
The consultation process represents a formal period during which the company will engage with employees before making any final decisions about the future of these sites. During this period, customers can continue to receive services from these locations until the consultation concludes, or alternatively from other Vertu Motors dealerships operating in the surrounding areas.
Corporate Background and Recent Acquisitions
Vertu Motors plc was established in late 2006 with a specific strategy to acquire and consolidate motor retail businesses across the United Kingdom. The company has grown significantly since its formation, now ranking as the fourth largest automotive retailer in the country. The Launceston showroom came under Vertu Motors' ownership in 2022 as part of a broader acquisition from Helston Garages Group Limited, which included 27 other franchised sales outlets.
At the time of this acquisition, Robert Forrester, chief executive of Vertu Motors plc, expressed enthusiasm about integrating these dealerships into the company's Bristol Street Motors brand. He stated: "We were delighted to bring these Peugeot dealerships under the Bristol Street Motors name, as the rebrand is key to their integration within our group. Customers will benefit from being part of the UK's fourth largest automotive retailer, while the exceptional customer service they are used to will continue, as will the excellent teams within each Bristol Street Motors Peugeot dealership."
Potential Impact on Local Communities
The possible closure of these dealerships represents more than just corporate restructuring—it signifies potential disruption to longstanding relationships between businesses and their local communities. For many residents in Launceston and Barnstaple, these dealerships have been trusted providers of automotive services and vehicles for generations. The consultation period will determine whether these historic businesses can continue operating or whether drivers will need to seek alternative providers in the region.
As the automotive retail sector continues to evolve with changing consumer habits and economic pressures, this review reflects broader challenges facing traditional dealership models. The outcome will not only affect employees and customers directly involved with these three locations but may also signal future strategic directions for one of Britain's major automotive retailers.
