A car dealership in Scotland has become one motor trade business that might not have to worry too much about staff retention, as the operation has become an employee trust. Helensburgh Toyota dealership has been sold by its owners to a trust established by 34 employees.

The long established dealer has been very successful over its 45 year history, establishing an excellent reputation for customer service. However, the present owners have decided to step down and rather than looking for an external buyer they offered first refusal to the employees.  

A team headed up by the present General Manager and his department head colleagues has taken up the offer. 

Out-going Managing director, Gary Mulvaney, commented, “People have always been at the heart of what we do, whether that is staff, customers or the community. This felt like a natural transition as the business will remain in the hands of those local staff who have made it what it is. Our customers value the service, the personal attention and the familiar trusted face when they walk in and that will remain.”

The move is thought to be a first for the motor industry in Scotland and perhaps points a way forward for businesses in other regions looking to maintain a personal touch.