Family values prove key for dealership Colin Appleyard

Colin Appleyard, which has six dealerships across Yorkshire and Lancashire, was set up in 1971 by husband and wife duo Peggy and Colin Appleyard.

The founder’s son Robin Appleyard is now the managing director.

He said: “It’s really the ethics that my dad, Colin, put into play in the early days of the company which have been so ingrained into our culture that they’ve guided us through challenging times.

“It’s always been about looking after customers and staff first, whilst always investing back into the business to save for a rainy day. Both of which have been invaluable in recent months.

“It’s short term thinking to get rid of people at the first sign of trouble. For us, the priority has been to protect jobs, just like we did back in the recession of 2009.

“We know it’s the people who make a business successful, and many of our 140 staff members have worked for the company for many years, with over 10 per cent working with us for over 15.

“It’s not always about bottom line profit.”

Mr Appleyard added that during lockdown 90 per cent of the firm’s staff was furloughed. The priority was to make everyone felt supported and connected.

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Thank you

James Mitchinson