Vertu Extends Partnership With Fiat Group to Take on Cars

SLOUGH, UNITED KINGDOM – September 25, 2009: One of the largest motor retailers in Britain has been awarded the Fiat car franchise for the first time.

Vertu Motors, which operates 54 dealerships throughout the country, is preparing to open new Fiat outlets at former Brooklyn sites it acquired in Cheltenham and Worcester three months ago.

Operating under the Bristol Street Motors and Bristol Street Motor Nation brand names, Vertu Motors already represents the Fiat Group with the Iveco franchise in Swindon, Bristol and Gloucester, and Fiat Professional in Swindon.

“This is a very exciting development for the Group since we have long wanted to add the Fiat car franchise to our portfolio,” says Robert Forrester, CEO, Vertu Motors. “To begin our representation in two towns in the same region is a bonus. We would like this to be the start of a major long term relationship between us and Fiat.”

“We are delighted to welcome Vertu Motors into our growing dealer network,” says Tim Head, dealer development director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK. “They bring with them a wonderful reputation and I am sure this will be a long and successful partnership.”