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.”

USED CAR SALES BOOM FOR STOCKPORT RETAILER

A Stockport car retailer is bucking the current economic trend after announcing a rise in sales for the first three months of 2009.

Smith Knight Fay Volkswagen has seen approved used car sales increase by 33% compared to the same period in 2008.

Shaun Massey, sales manager at Smith Knight Fay, said: “We are delighted to have seen such an increase in business during this challenging time.

“Competitive prices, a strong brand and fantastic residual value are the main reasons for the increase, something we are confident will continue this year.

“Overall the business is performing in excess of current targets, something we are confident will continue.”

In addition to the retailer’s successful start to the year, the Stockport Volkswagen showroom has also received praise for its improved customer service, which was monitored through mystery shopper reports and customer satisfaction surveys.

“We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional customer service,” continued Shaun. “Our aim is to understand customers’ needs so we can find the right vehicle to meet their needs.

“In addition we aim to give customers a range of vehicles strategically priced to suit all budgets.”

To view the latest customer satisfaction scores for Stockport Volkswagen go to Smith Knight Fay Stockport

If you are interested in this story please contact Richard Knowles on 01902 714 957 or email richard@connect-group.com