It is a truly owner-managed business with Richard himself heavily involved as chairman, group managing director and dealer principal of the Oldham MG Rover, Hyundai and LDV dealerships. Around ten years ago the group started to reduce its reliance on the MG Rover and LDV brands but it still remains one of the leading MG Rover dealers in the country. Strategically they are looking to expand through acquiring a new site and another franchise. MG Rover's difficulties have been well documented in recent years and uncertainty remains despite the recent negotiations with the Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation. The Greater Manchester and north-west market place in which Richard Cort operates remains fiercely competitive with a large number of local MG Rover dealers, including other sizeable companies such as Horners and Lookers. Increasing profitability — and not just turnover — will be key to the group's ability to fund its expansion plans. They have a loyal customer base and strong sales volumes and will realise the need to increase margins across the group by squeezing extra profit out of sales and improving efficiencies in service and bodyshop departments. More investment in showrooms, bodyshops and service centres will be required to remain competitive. All this requires careful consideration to ensure that the expected returns are reasonable and worthwhile. Having overcome many challenges in the past, Richard Cort has the experience, drive and enthusiasm to succeed in the future. n Dale Thorpe, partner in the Motor Group at Baker Tilly in Manchester. For further motor sector advice, please contact me on 0161 834 5777