John Clark Motor Group adds fast-growing car brand after North-east takeover

The deal, on undisclosed terms, sees John Clark, which recently reported annual revenues of more than £1 billion, take over Gillanders Motors in Peterhead. The newly acquired business will offer a full range of new and used cars from Kia, including the EV9 and newly launched EV3 electric models, alongside servicing, warranty repairs and customer support. Alongside this existing business, a new John Clark Select operation will open offering a wide range of “premium” used cars.

The full Gillanders team will transfer with the acquisition and the business will remain at its current location on the town’s Blackhouse Industrial Estate.

Chris Clark, managing director of John Clark Motor Group, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Kia into the family, and we are excited for the road ahead. Kia has developed so quickly over recent years and now offers some of the market's leading EV models. This acquisition therefore not only expands our geography but also expands our franchise offering enabling us to offer an even broader range of models in this rapidly changing market.”

The deal follows the recent news that the group had added the MG franchise to its portfolio, initially with a dealership in Dundee and now another in Perth. John Clark, which has a string of car dealerships across Scotland, said it was on the road to achieving its strategic objectives after passing the £1bn turnover threshold. The latest accounts for 2023 showed turnover rose to £1.03bn, from £914.3 million the previous year. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation nudged up to almost £35.2m, from £33.8m in 2022.

Paul Phillpott, president and chief executive of KIA UK, added: “We are thrilled that John Clark Motor Group are investing in the Kia brand and joining our 191-strong franchised dealer network, at a time of steady growth and success. Their long-standing reputation aligns perfectly with Kia’s values and commitments to customers, something which will benefit our on-going partnership.”

John Clark Motor Group soars past £1bn turnover as new Perth dealership added