Jardine Motors UK saw an increase in new car sales across its dealerships last year, according to its 2005 financial results, and strengthened its portfolio with ‘selective’ franchises.

Profits for the whole of Jardine Motors, including operations in Hong Kong, halved compared with last year but this was mostly due to property disposals in 2005, which artificially boosted profits.

Appleyard Vehicle Contracts, the company’s leasing business, increased the size of its fleet and produced “satisfactory results” despite falls in used car residual values. According to the group, there was an improvement in the underlying dealership operating profit in the UK, as growth was achieved in new vehicle volumes against the background of an overall decline in the market.

Jardine Motors Group trades under several names in the UK including Clover Leaf Cars, Scotthall, Minories, Appleyard, Abridge and Lancaster.