BUSINESS’ SERVICE QUALITY RECEIVES NATIONAL RECOGNITION

A Bury business is celebrating after being named one of the top Volkswagen retailers in 2010.

Smith Knight Fay Volkswagen was recognised by Volkswagen UK for its high levels of customer satisfaction on sales, service and parts; finishing sixth out of 215 sites nationwide.

Volkswagen monitors all retailers ensuring all areas of the business are performing according to Volkswagen standards and targets. The One Business Awards then recognise the top 25 retailers in the UK.

Steve Thomas, brand manager at Smith Knight Fay Volkswagen, said: “I’m delighted the business has achieved such a high position in the country.

“In the current economic climate, it’s vital for businesses to ensure consumers are pleased with the service they receive.

“This recognition is testament to the hard work from all staff in the retailer, as it requires everyone working together to achieve this award.”

CHRISTINE CELEBRATES 30 YEARS AT RETAILER

A grandmother who thought she wouldn’t last a week in a job, has just celebrated 30 years with the same company.

Christine Varley from Ramsbottom arrived late on her first day at Bury’s Volkswagen retailer, but survived and is now considered ‘part of the furniture’ at Smith Knight Fay.

The 63-year-old was presented with a bottle of champagne and flowers from the company’s UK head, Conor McCormack, in a pre-planned surprise visit.

Christine said: “I started after my children went to school and now consider this a huge part of my life.

“I only work part-time now and was getting ready to go home when Conor to surprised me to thank me for my service.

“I was very shocked but delighted with the wonderful flowers and champagne; it’s an honour the company’s boss has spent time coming to see me

“Since my husband Stephen died my job means everything to me and I have some good friends here. The atmosphere is brilliant and it’s like working as part of my extended family.”

But it all could have been so different for Christine after getting lost on her first day in 1980.

She added: “I didn’t think I’d last the rest of the week after arriving late, never mind 30 years!

“Everyone has been brilliant about my anniversary, it’s one of the reasons I come to work every day with a smile on my face.

“Will I be here in another 30 years? We’ll have to wait and see!”

Smith Knight Fay Bury’s brand manager, Steve Thomas, said: “Christine is part of the furniture here and everyone enjoys working with her.

“Conor’s surprise visit had been planned months in advance and he felt it was important to thank Christine for all her hard work, enthusiasm and dedication to her job.”

POST-CHRISTMAS CHARITY CHEER

A north west car retailer group is aiming to provide some charity festive cheer this Christmas by helping those unable to spend the season at home.

The Cumbria Flood Recovery Fund will benefit to the tune of £25 for every car sold at Inchcape’s 13 Volkswagen sites during the company’s January sale, which runs from 29th December to 10th January.

Cumbria Community Foundation’s appeal has already raised over £1m to help the victims of the recent floods that have left hundreds of people in temporary accommodation and without possessions.

The group’s sites in Chester, Bromborough, Salford, Altrincham, Macclesfield, Bolton, Bury, Oldham, Hyde, Stockport, Shrewsbury, Bridgnorth and Telford are hoping to raise over £10,000 for the fund during the ten-day event.

Inchcape north’s divisional marketing manager, Tony Carr, said: “It’s important we help others at Christmas and this fund was very appropriate, as many flood victims will be spending the festive period away from their homes.

“Members of staff have family and friends directly affected by the floods, so we’re pleased to help in a small way.

“I hope lots of people take advantage of the offers we have and at the same time, help such a great cause.”

Deb Muscat, Cumbria Flood Recovery Fund Appeal’s acting director, said: “We’re grateful to every individual or business donation, especially from those outside Cumbria.

“Inchcape’s innovative idea shows the different ways businesses can help raise money.

“The Fund strives to improve the quality of life for those who have had their lives affected by floods in November this year.”

VOLKSWAGEN REMAIN CONSUMERS NEW CAR CHOICE

A recent weekend event at a Bury car retailer has been hailed a success for both customers and the business.

Customers to the event at Smith Knight Fay Volkswagen on Bell Lane benefited from new finance packages and up to 20 per cent off new cars.

The one-off event generated almost £1m worth of business for the retailer as local consumers picked up an early Christmas bargain.

Smith Knight Fay’s sales manager, Jason Brierley, said: “We were delighted with the customer response to the event. It proves Volkswagen vehicles are still one of the top choices for the region’s consumers.

“What makes the cars a good option is they hold their value very well. This means they are seen as an investment rather than an expense.”

“We took over 50 orders, with 40 new cars and 12 Volkswagen approved used cars, between the Friday morning and Sunday night.

“Although we are working our way out of a recession, consumers are still reluctant to purchase large and expensive items, which makes the event’s success much better than anticipated.”

Taking the lead from Heywood boxer, Mark Thompson, who purchased a Scirocco last month, boxing fan and Key 103 Radio DJ, Adam Cole has also followed suit.

Adam said: “I’ve wanted this car for a while and can’t wait to make the most of the Scirocco’s driving ability.”

Jason concluded: “The Scirocco, named TopGear.com’s car of the year 2008, is proving to be a popular choice among consumers.”