John Clark

Total sales slumped to £721.8m, a drop of 12% from £820.8m reported in 2019.

Despite the challenges caused by the pandemic, the group confirmed that while turnover and vehicle sales volumes were reduced, reported results included profits that were significantly ahead of previous years.

John Clark Motor Group sold a total of 27,142 cars in 2020, a fall of more than 3,000 from the year before. Those represented drops of 21% in new car sales and 5% in used cars, against 29% and 15% drops in the respective UK markets. After-sales revenue also declined due to the enforced lockdowns.

However, pre-tax profits more than doubled to £6.2m from £2.6m in 2019, The Courier reports.

The firm’s directors hailed the efforts of staff during the pandemic, 90% of which were placed on furlough during the various lockdowns. Most team members returned to work by the end of June 2020 and all were back by the end of October last year.

John Clark, chairman, said: “I am very proud of the team being able to deliver the results reported for 2020 against a backdrop of what must be considered as one of the most significant crises in our lifetime.

“Improved efficiencies and recovery rates plus increased focus on cost controls drove improved contributions across all businesses in the group. We continue to have a strong balance sheet and remain profitable with a high degree of liquidity. So, we are in a robust position.”

He continued: “We plan to build on this and maintain our industry-leading position by continuing to seize the right investment and acquisition opportunities.

“This year has seen continued momentum in all areas of the business with turnover growth, to well beyond pre-covid-19 comparatives, accompanied by improved again healthy profits.”

Chris Clark, managing director, added: “Our colleagues made the difference in 2020. Without them and their positive approach, the responses we delivered would not have been possible. Everyone can be proud of the results we publish today.

“We are tracking to deliver a very strong performance in 2021. We again look forward with confidence, pride, and gratitude.”