Yorkshire based car retailer JCT600 has enjoyed another record year with the highest turnover in its 65 year history.

For the 12 months to 31 December 2010, the privately owned company saw turnover rise from £498m to £615m, up 32% from the previous year.

Profit before tax also increased to £12.3m.

Despite tough trading conditions with falling consumer confidence, the motor retailer described its sales as "exceptionally strong". 

Against national new car growth of 5% for the brands it represents, JCT600 increased its new vehicle sales by over 42%.

Used car sales performed in line with the market.

“We have once again seen our sales of new cars outperforming the market with our three new Audi dealerships and the opening of our first PriceRight car ‘supermarket’ adding to the group’s success,” said Nigel Shaw, finance director of JCT600.

“We were also able to continue to reduce costs, which fell by another 2%, as well as increasing our aftersales business by 27% – MOT and tyre sales saw their best year ever.

"The focus of the business remains driving customer care and we are continuing to invest in the technology to support this. 2011 has already got off to a good start with total vehicle sales up 6% on last year.”

The group now employs 1,350 staff at its 48 dealerships throughout Yorkshire, Derbyshire, Lincolnshire and the North East.

Jack Tordoff, chairman, said: “It has been another exceptional year for the company and these record results are testament to the hard work and commitment of the entire JCT600 team. The strength of these results put us in an excellent position for further expansion.”

The business has continued to invest in its online presence and in regional TV marketing to expand its customer base.