Peoples Limited expands beyond Ford, introducing new global automotive brands – Scottish Business News

Peoples Limited has described its latest financial results as reflective of a transformational year, marking a significant evolution beyond its 42-year legacy of Ford exclusivity.

Chairman Brian Gilda reported a 7.6% drop in turnover and a 32.9% decline in pre-tax profits (before preference share dividends) as the company navigated a period of material change and strategic investment.

Now, five out of six Peoples bases in Scotland and England feature cutting-edge Chinese brands BYD and OMODA/JAECOO alongside Ford.

Brian Gilda commented: “This is an exciting new era for Peoples as we introduce new global brands.

Change, or becoming different, is fundamental to our wellbeing and long-term success, and we are excited by the growth opportunities our new Chinese partnerships will bring. These brands are industry leaders, and it speaks volumes that they chose us to represent them.

While it’s disappointing to see our figures down, it’s certainly not surprising – a similar pattern is being seen across the industry. Ford passenger vehicle results were down partly due to reductions across the Ford passenger car lineup, while used car sales were badly affected by a rollercoaster ride of values.

However, our commercial vehicle (CV) results were outstanding, and our aftersales results were record-breaking.”

Highlights from the Ford Passenger Vehicle (PV) range include the popular Puma (Britain’s top-selling car), as well as the all-electric Ford Explorer (introduced in Q3) and the all-electric Ford Capri (introduced in Q4).

In the commercial vehicle sector, the Transit Custom was named the 2024 International Van of the Year, while the Ford Ranger continues its success as the UK’s bestselling pickup.

Introduction of the new Chinese brands is already well underway – Peoples began introducing BYD in January this year and says there has already been considerable success to-date with Atto 3 and Seal.
OMODA/JAECOO followed in September, and customer interest has quickly developed in their electric vehicle and petrol engine offerings.

Brian Gilda added: “We are bringing in the new brands in phases across our six dealerships in central Scotland and Liverpool and we expect this to be completed in early 2025.
We have already earned the highest customer satisfaction score in the UK for BYD which is testament to our commitment to outstanding service as we bring our new offering to our valued customers.”

Peoples outlined the roll-out plans across its six dealerships.

In Scotland, Edinburgh will offer Ford cars and CVs as well as OMODA/JAECOO and there are plans to invest in a dedicated, flagship showroom to showcase the brand in the capital city.
Livingston will remain with Ford while Falkirk will be solely OMODA/JAECOO.

In the Northwest of England, Bootle will offer Ford cars and CVs as well as BYD, Speke will have Ford cars and CVs plus OMODA/JAECOO, and Prescott will have Ford cars and BYD.

All Peoples car sites will continue to offer a wide selection of pre-loved vehicles, ensuring customers have access to both new and quality used options across all sites.