Wessex Garages’ new-build Nissan dealership will open on December 28 in Bristol, with 40 staff.  

Simon Newson, general manager at Wessex Garages, which already has two car dealerships in Bristol (Wessex Kia), said: “Our new dealership has created some fantastic employment opportunities for people in the area.

“Forty people will make up the team at the new showroom, 26 are new employees to the company, 12 have moved from our Pennywell Road dealership in Bristol and two staff members are from our other dealerships within the Wessex Group.

“Our employees at Nissan – Cribbs will receive regular performance reviews, training including manufacturer standard where appropriate, and in some cases gain qualifications on the job. We feel it is vital to recognise and nurture our employees’ skills.”

Eighteen-year-old Ollie Glossop, a third year apprentice who lives in Bristol, will also be joining the dealership team to complete his manufacturer’s apprenticeship through Nissan.

Wessex Garages is still looking for another new apprentice to start at the dealership and is currently working with S&B Automotive Academy, an automotive training provider specialising in apprenticeships.

Newson said: “We also have some long-term employees at Wessex Garages joining us at the new dealership. For example Andy Davis has been with us for nine years starting as a sales executive and will be taking the role of new car controller.

“James Camidge has worked at Wessex Garages for five years as a sales executive and will also be joining us at the new dealership. They will bring a wealth of knowledge to the team and really guide and offer support to the new employees.”

Wessex Garages’ new Nissan dealership will span more than 18,000 square feet.

The investment for the project is in the region of £5 million. It will also be a centre for electric vehicles and will be an additional charging point for Bristol.

Wessex Garages is a privately owned company that has outlets in Bristol, Cardiff, Gloucester and Newport. It specialises in new and used car sales across South Wales and the South West. The new Nissan site is at Hayes Way at Cribbs Causeway.

> Staff at Wessex Garages' new Nissan dealership