Founded in 1983, Peoples Group says it is the largest independent dealership in Europe retailing only Ford cars and commercial vehicles.

It has six Ford Main Dealerships comprising of Hermiston Quay, Edinburgh; Callendar Road, Falkirk; Almondvale, Livingston; and three in Liverpool.

The company has revealed that profit before tax and preference share dividends were up 165% to £7.98m. That contrasts with a year-on-year drop in turnover and profit in the previous 12 months.

Brian Gilda, the firm’s chair, said: “Delivering these results in the face of the pandemic, fierce competition and diminishing volumes in certain sections of the market is testament to the determination of my directors, management and staff and the outstanding loyalty of our customers.

“This time last year we had just reopened our six dealerships after lockdown and our figures were predictably impacted, however, we remained confident we had a robust plan in place, and this year’s figures are testament to that as we surpass our pre-lockdown performance.

“We are also pleased to have avoided making any redundancies during the year by utilising the job retention scheme, and all staff with the exception of directors were awarded a £400 bonus as a thank-you for their commitment and dedication.”

Peoples Group added that it closely monitors changing consumer attitudes and behaviours and its omnichannel approach has been a key growth driver, The Scotsman reports. 

Mr Gilda continued: “Our online offering has been a game-changer for the company as it has widened our customer base considerably.

“However, we recognise that people like dealing with people, particularly when making a sizeable purchase, so the ability to visit our dealerships to speak to a trusted adviser remains an important part of the sales journey.”

He added however that the company would not take its foot off the gas and acknowledged that challenges remain ahead, particularly regarding semiconductor shortages that have affected manufacturers across the industry.

He cautioned that normality may not return until early next year.