Keith Sayfritz, of Greenhous Group, was announced today as the new president of the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI).

He is the first commercial vehicle dealer to be appointed to the position.

Sayfritz says: "Becoming RMI president is a great honour. My intention is to maintain and build on the dialogue that now exists between the industry and Government in order to assure that the continuing success of our sector in the future.

"Issues ranging from technician accreditation to consumer protection remain paramount concerns, and it is through the RMI that our concerns can be expressed."

Sayfritz is group chairman of Greenhous Group. He joined the company in 1977 as group credit manager.

He is also vice-chairman of Shrewsbury Town Football Club

Sayfritz will hold office until summer 2006. He succeeds Colin Parlett of CB Motors, who has completed his term of office.