Garage moves to scotch rumours of takeover bid

THE Freelance Motor Group is not being taken over. In an unusual move, it has made the decision to go public in a bid to scotch widespread rumours circulating in both Guernsey and Jersey that it is a target for Jacksons (CI) Ltd or its entrepreneurial owner, Tom Scott.

'There is no truth in the rumours that this group is being taken over,' said managing director Martin Gurren.

'Nor has any approach been received from anyone with that purpose in mind. We are completely independent of any other motor group in the islands and intend to remain so.'

Rumours were rife in Guernsey about a month ago and are now more prominent in Jersey. The company has 34 staff in Guernsey and 48 in Jersey.

'The staff need to understand it's just rumours and there is absolutely nothing in it,' said Mr Gurren.

He suggested that anything linked with Jacksons ownership was potentially contentious, especially given the takeover hype associated with it in the motor trade over the past few years.

'The future is very bright and we are trying to expand the business. We took on Renault in Guernsey last year and are looking at other potential acquisitions,' said Mr Gurren.

'As a group, we are always looking at ways to refine and expand our business.

'We hold significant franchises and our intention is to develop the business in both islands to offer the potential car owner and vehicle operators credible and attractive alternatives.'

The group holds the franchises for Toyota, Lexus, Vauxhall and Chevrolet and also acquired the Renault franchise last year to accompany TVR and Lotus in Guernsey.

It also undertakes fork-lift sales and hire, repairs and servicing for private and commercial vehicles and contract hire.

The Freelance Motor Group was owned by the late Jack Walker and is now owned by a Walker family trust.

It has been operating in Guernsey for six years.