Sales motoring ahead at car firm John Clark

Car dealer John Clark Motor Group has seen turnover rev up 5.5 per cent to £742 million though underlying earnings nudged into reverse.

Scotland’s third largest motor dealer said the early part of 2017 saw “encouraging” trading while the latter months were more challenging in the face of “economic and political uncertainty” which led to reduced consumer confidence.

Earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortisation (Ebitda) came in at £15.3m in the year to 31 December, down from the £15.9m booked in 2016.

Group managing director Chris Clark said: “Throughout 2017 we maintained positive momentum towards our key strategic objectives, as we seek to strengthen our position as one of the leading motor trade dealer groups in Scotland.

Chairman John Clark added: “Further developments are planned for 2018 including the build of an all new facility for BMW and Mini in Dundee.”