Inverness-based Macrae & Dick has increased its Ford presence in Scotland by taking over Frews in Perth. The acquisition follows the retirement of Frews managing director Bill Farquarson after 48 years.

Francis Hamilton, chairman of Macrae & Dick, said: “The purchase of Frews is a natural progression for the company following the acquisition 18 months ago of the adjoining Ford dealership in Stirling.

“This latest move is a signal that we intend to become bigger players in the mainstream belt and we look forward to developing our association with Ford.”

Last year Macrae & Dick turned over £120m. It holds the franchises for a number of manufacturers, including BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover and Mazda, and now has four Ford showrooms – Inverness, Elgin, Stirling and Perth.