Donnelly Group expands with Vauxhall franchise deal

DONNELLY Group, Northern Ireland’s largest family-owned car dealer, is creating four new jobs after taking on a franchise from a Co Londonderry firm.

The company has acquired the Vauxhall franchise from Eakin Bros Ltd in Claudy.

The new Donnelly and Taggart Vauxhall showroom, at which the jobs will be based, will be located in Campsie Industrial Estate.

It takes the total number of Donnelly Vauxhall sites in Northern Ireland to three.

Donnelly Group executive chairman Terence Donnelly welcomed the deal as positive news for the company.

“With existing Vauxhall franchises in Dungannon and Omagh, the Donnelly Group has a great relationship with Vauxhall, and our significant knowledge of the brand ensures our customers benefit from the very best offers and service,” he said.

“As with our other sites, Donnelly and Taggart will provide a full offering including motability and commercial vehicles, which will enhance the overall service and experience for new and existing Vauxhall customers in the north-west.

“Donnelly and Taggart have been trusted by motorists in the north-west for more than 25 years to offer the best advice and vehicle recommendations to our customers, whether they are considering downsizing, buying a new car for a son or daughter or looking at a commercial vehicle.

“Our award-winning teams are able to match customers with the right vehicle at the right price.”

Brent Crawford, Donnelly and Taggart Vauxhall manager, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Vauxhall to Donnelly and Taggart in Eglinton, making us the home of Vauxhall in the northwest and joining our existing 12 manufacturers.

“The inclusion of commercial vehicles such as vans in our Vauxhall offering is particularly exciting, because that was not available in the area previously.

“Several of the staff from Eakin Bros have transferred to Donnelly and Taggart so, for existing customers, there will be many familiar faces who bring with them a wealth of brand knowledge and experience.

“We would encourage Vauxhall customers in the area to call in to meet the team over a cup of coffee and learn how we can assist with all their motoring needs and requirements.”

Chris Kearney, Vauxhall network development manager, also welcomed the news.

“Vauxhall already has a strong working relationship with the Donnelly Group and we are delighted to continue this as we expand our representation within Northern Ireland,” he said.

Donnelly Group is set to build a new £6m Jaguar Land Rover showroom in Dungannon, Co Tyrone, close to its flagship site.