Jump directly to the content
DRIVEN OUT

Beloved car dealership suddenly closes down with NO warning – and tells customers ‘we’re sorry’

Company accounts may reveal the reason for the closure

A BELOVED family-run car dealership has apologised to customers after closing down with no warning.

Customers will now have to go five miles out of their way to get hold of cars from one of the world's biggest brands.

Locals of Newton Abbot, Devon, were left baffled late last month when the Swanson Motor Company suddenly closed its doors.

Customers found the site locked up on November 22, and it hasn't reopened since.

A notice has since appeared on the firm's website confirming that the closure will be permanent.

It read: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, we are now closed.

READ MORE MOTORS NEWS

"We apologise for any inconvenience."

It also directed customers to an email address if they had any enquiries regarding the move.

No detail was given on the nature of these "unforeseen circumstances" but a look at the company accounts might provide a clue.

In its most recent filings with Companies House, the firm had long-term debts in excess of £1.5 million, according to a report from .

That compared to just £271,612 of net assets.

There was also no confirmation on what would happen to the company's 16 employees.

Dealership Debacle: Shattered Trust & Saving on Mechanic Costs

A meeting of creditors is reportedly set for December 9, where a vote will be held on whether or not to begin winding up the company.

The site, which specialised in Fords, is currently listed as "permanently closed" on Google.

For buyers looking to pick up a model from Ford, this means a longer trip to the next accredited dealer.

That would be Vospers of Torbay, about five miles southeast of Newton Abbot.

SunMotors has contacted the Swanson Motor Company for comment.

Topics