Murketts to pull out of new BMW sales

AFTER more than 20 years with the prestige German car-maker, Murketts is set to pull out of selling new BMWs in Huntingdon later this year to concentrate on its core Vauxhall business. But managing director Simon Murkett was quick to reassure Hunts Post r

AFTER more than 20 years with the prestige German car-maker, Murketts is set to pull out of selling new BMWs in Huntingdon later this year to concentrate on its core Vauxhall business.

But managing director Simon Murkett was quick to reassure Hunts Post readers that the company would continue a full service and parts service for the marque and would continue to sell nearly-new and used BMWs.

The firm, which has been in business in the area for around 120 years, recently submitted a planning application to build a brand-new Vauxhall dealership alongside its existing premises in Stukeley Road to replace its leased premises in St Ives and allow room for expansion.

Mr Murkett said General Motors, with which Murketts, the largest Vauxhall dealer in Cambridgeshire, has had a 90-year relationship, had asked the firm to consider selling Chevrolet cars as well.

But the economic situation had made it harder to sell expensive new cars, and the directors had had to decide on the best way to take the company forward.

"As well as parts and service, we are still retaining our authorised repair business and used vehicles," he added. "With the market as it is, it's getting harder to sell premium cars. We have been selling twice as many used BMWs as new. The price is sensitive at the moment.

"I'm sad and excited at the same time. It's a great opportunity to do what we have said we would do with GM, and there's a new Vectra, the Insignia, coming later this year."

There will be some impact on jobs but, with most of the BMW activity being retained, it should be small, Mr Murkett said.