GM Europe VP of sales and marketing Jonathan Browning has confirmed earlier media reports that Opel, Vauxhall and Saab sales and marketing operations will be merged in each of the brands' European markets.

The decision is likely to affect staff at Vauxhall's Luton HQ and Saab's Marlow, Bucks. Offices.

"We will no longer pursue separate sales strategies for Opel, Vauxhall and Saab, Browning told media yesterday. “The management roles will be brought together under the roof of one sales organization."

GM Europe's total cost reduction target from the brand operations mergers has not been confirmed, a spokesperson noting that sales structures and therefore potential savings varied in each country.