Nissan has terminated its franchise contract with Barons of Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, following a disagreement over refurbishing the dealership to its latest corporate standards.

Annette Bucknall, managing director at Barons, says she was unwilling to meet the expense of the required changes or face the disruption to business.

She told the Bromsgrove Advertiser: “Changing the identity was going to cost £120,000 out of our own pocket and I refused to pay it. We are here to sell cars, we are not a fashion show, and we would have to close for a month and live in a mobile office.”

Barons now plans to sell used cars, increasing stock levels from around 40 units to at least 70. It will also repair and service all makes, including Nissan.

A Nissan spokesman says: “Barons has left the franchise. We will be writing to customers to advise them of their nearest dealership.”

Under Block Exemption, Nissan is compelled to issue two-year notice of termination unless dealers are in breach of contract. The matter is believed to be in the hands of lawyers.