THE north's largest family-owned new and used vehicle retailer Donnelly Group has completed the purchase of one of Bangor’s most respected car dealerships.
The acquisition of Shaws Citroen on the corner of the Green Road and the Bangor-Newtownards carriageway will become the ninth Donnelly Group location in Northern Ireland and the first in Bangor.
In addition to the Citroen dealership, Donnelly Group will also open a Honda franchise on the site in November and introduce Donnelly Motorstore, offering access to more than 2,000 used vehicles to the North Down motoring public.
All 19 employees at Shaws will join the Donnelly Group, with Michael Shaw remaining as general sales manager, ensuring a continuity of service. Paul Compton, who has been with Donnelly for 10 years, will become site director.
Donnelly Group managing director Dave Sheeran said: “There are many synergies between Shaws and ourselves which made this an attractive acquisition.
“Both are family businesses with a long history of customer excellence and, like the Donnelly Group, Shaws has a strong and loyal customer base who will continue to be served by the same dedicated team.
“I’d like to welcome the Bangor team to the Donnelly Group family, which now encompasses more than 750 employees across nine locations and represents 18 manufacturers.
Michael Shaw added: “Shaws was established in 1926 and relocated to the current premises some 30 years ago. The team and I are delighted to be joining Donnelly Group.
“This is fantastic news for motorists in the local area as we welcome the Honda franchise that will complement our Citroen range. The introduction of Donnelly Motorstore will also ensure that we will now be the premier site in Bangor for new and used vehicles no matter your budget.”
Donnelly Group, established 71 years ago, sells more than 18,000 vehicles a year.
