Chapelhouse Motor Group has grown its turnover by 27.2% and pre-tax profit by 50.5% in a year which saw the business ease the cost-of-living burden on staff and boost charitable giving.

Turnover increased to £95.1 million as profit before tax increased from £3.3m to £5m at the Warrington-based retail group which reported “strong demand for both new and used vehicles” in its financial year to the end of July 2022.

And the business was able to make changes to its remuneration of staff in response to inflation as it delivered growth.

A statement issued to AM said: “Within the year the group rewarded its staff, which they recognise as the groups biggest asset with salary increases above the national average.

“This was also in addition to increased holiday entitlement and improved working patterns to assist in a more balanced work-life pattern.

“A cost-of-living support payment will also be made this year to help staff with increased outgoings.

“Charitable donations were maintained throughout this period and included sizeable donations to local charities and wider for the Ukraine appeal.”

Chapelhouse represents Kia (3), Suzuki (8), MG (4) and Fiat (1) at its network of Merseyside franchised retail operations and has approved aftersales franchises with Citroen and Peugeot.

This year it has opened the doors to new Suzuki and MG dealerships in Blackpool.

AM reported on general manager Richard Lillywhite's bid to embrace Suzuki GB's #GoodDifferent philsophy following the openings, with he and his team performing a self-penned musical performance for customers. 

The group's last significant growth came in 2019 when it completed the acquisition of three motor retail sites from Bolton Car Company for an undisclosed sum, with two MG showrooms added in 2020.

In its statement detailing developments in its last financial year the group said it had introduced new dealership software and phone systems as part of efforts to make the group more efficient.

It added: “The company strives for improvement constantly and has the strength and stability to continue delivering a performance for its staff and customers, Helping to maintain a strong relationship with its numerous manufacture partners.”