JD Classics set for global expansion
British dealer to establish new premises in California and the Middle East
JD Classics is to expand in to California and the Middle East, following rapid growth in its home market.
Company founder and director Derek Hood says the US business will launch in June – possibly near Pebble Beach, the classic car mecca on the west coast of America, around 100 miles south of San Fransisco – and in the Middle East some time in 2018.
The timing means that the company would be operating in time for the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, held this year on 20 August.
JD took its alloy-bodied 1955 Mercedes 300 SL Gullwing Coupé and 1966 Ford GT40 MkIII prototype to Pebble Beach last year where they were awarded second and third places respectively within their classes.
Hood says: ‘Opening in California is a natural progression for us. We’ve been going to Pebble Beach for seven years and noticed that there are few people in the US who can offer what we can offer, all under one roof.’
JD Classics moved from being a Jaguar specialist to selling, repairing and restoring all makes of classic cars seven years ago and has a facility in Maldon, Essex and a showroom in Mayfair, London. It also employs a team of 60 specialist technicians.
Hood said expanding to other marques took annual turnover from £25 million seven years ago to £100m within three years. He is expecting the business to turn over £160m in 2017.