Highlands to see Grenadier retail boost

The Highlands looks set to benefit from the launch of the new Ineos Grenadier retail sites next month, with Inverness home to one of the new locations.

The 24 UK sites make them among the first 150 places to be confirmed in markets across the globe.

The Grenadier project was born of the enthusiasm of Ineos founder Sir Jim Ratcliffe, boss of the petrochemicals giant which runs the Grangemouth refinery on the Forth. After the demise of the old Land Rover Defender efforts to buy the old Defender production line from Jaguar Land Rover were rebuffed.

He then came up with the idea of building a replacement vehicle.

Ratcliffe spotted a gap in the 4x4 market for a rugged vehicle which would be tougher than the Japanese pickup alternatives or the new lifestyle-focussed Land Rovers.

The first of the 24 new sites cover a range of locations across the UK.

Scotland is well represented with locations confirmed for Stirling and Kilmarnock, too, adding to the current site in Edinburgh.

All servicing centres in Scotland will eventually support sales and test drive activity.

Gary Pearson, head of UK and MENA for Ineos Automotive, said: “We have worked tirelessly for over a year to find retail partners in the UK that share our

enthusiasm and excitement for the Grenadier.

“They understand 4x4 users and their requirements, and have a proven track record for exceptional customer service. Together with these partners, we look forward to providing Grenadier customers with the advice, guidance and support they need.”

Ineos plans to have 200 Grenadier sales and service sites in over 50 countries by the end of 2022, with “established dealer groups, 4x4 specialists and agricultural equipment dealers” hosting the Ineos brand.

The sites will both sell and offer maintenance for its Grenadier four-wheel drive. Ineos will work with

retailers to set up the outlets, and plans for the majority of customers to be within 45 minutes of an official sales and service location.

Additional coverage will be created through 10 selected partners and Bosch Car Service outlets.

Orders for the Ineos Grenadier will open this month.

INTREPID EXPLORER: Inverness will be home to one of the new Grenadier sales sites.