Meridien Milano, the Portsmouth branch of the Meridien Group, has acquired the dealership for Hampshire and West Sussex, expanding its operation to Alfa Romeo, Abarth and Chrysler Jeep.

Patrick Bass, group director of the Meridien Group, said: "This is an important strategic acquisition for the Meridien Group and we are delighted to be partnering with Chrysler Jeep in the Hampshire and West Sussex region.

“The acquisition demonstrates continued delivery of our strategy to grow a scaled motor retail group across the south in targeted regions.”

The Meridien Group has been the registered dealer for Chrysler Jeep in Bournemouth since 1995, so has previous experience with the brand.

Bass said: “Having spent the last 18 years selling and maintaining the Chrysler Jeep brand from our Bournemouth showroom we have extensive experience with the company.”

Meridien operates three showrooms in Bournemouth, Portsmouth and Lyndhurst.

The investment in the franchise will add to the new car sales division of the business and will also help to push forward the quality used car arm of the Group.