Hendy Group Bournemouth Skoda dealership faces franchise change

Hendy Group will stop representing Skoda at its Bournemouth showroom on Wallisdown Road after VW Group’s franchise consolidation, causing staff anxieties over possible redundancies and setting the site up for a new brand partner.

Key takeaways

• Hendy Group will end its Skoda franchise in Bournemouth.
• The Bournemouth site will be re‑commissioned for a new manufacturer.
• Staff have received no details on potential redundancies.
• Existing Skoda customers will continue to receive support during the transition.
• Hendy still represents more than fifteen other automotive brands.

Franchise change background

Volkswagen’s strategic shift to consolidate retailer relationships across parts of the UK has led to the termination of the Hendy‑Skoda partnership in Bournemouth. The decision mirrors a similar move that forced the immediate closure of a Skoda dealership in Salisbury earlier this year.

Hendy Group described the change as an “early stage” development and declined to give specifics about employee outcomes, stating it was not appropriate to comment at this point.

Impact on staff and customers

Employees at the Bournemouth outlet have voiced concerns about job security, reporting that they have not been informed whether redundancies will occur. The uncertainty stems from the pending re‑commissioning of the site for a different brand.

Hendy assured that current Skoda customers will be supported throughout the transition, aiming to maintain service standards while the new franchise is established.

Hendy’s wider brand portfolio and financial context

Despite losing the Skoda franchise, Hendy Group continues to represent a broad portfolio including Abarth, BYD, Chery, Citroen, Fiat, Ford, Geely, Honda, Hyundai, Jaecoo, Jaguar, Kia, Lotus, Land Rover, Mazda, Nissan, Omoda, Peugeot, Renault, Dacia, Alpine and Vauxhall.

The group recently reported an £18.1 million loss before tax, described in its accounts as “extremely disappointing”, highlighting the financial pressures facing multi‑brand dealers.

What this means for dealers

Dealers should monitor franchise realignments closely, as VW’s consolidation may affect other regional partnerships. Preparing contingency plans for staff redeployment and site re‑branding can mitigate disruption.

Maintaining clear communication with existing customers during brand transitions helps preserve loyalty and protects revenue streams while new manufacturer agreements are finalised.

Frequently asked questions

What is likely to happen to the Bournemouth dealership after the Skoda franchise ends?

The site will be re‑commissioned for a new manufacturer partner, but the specific brand has not been disclosed. Hendy will likely refurbish the showroom, train staff on the new product line and aim to relaunch the outlet within months, subject to franchise agreement finalisation.

How might the franchise change affect Hendy Group’s overall business?

While the loss of Skoda reduces the group’s brand count, Hendy’s extensive portfolio and continued representation of over fifteen other marques provide a buffer. However, the £18.1 million pre‑tax loss indicates financial strain, and the transition may require additional investment to ensure a smooth brand switch and retain staff morale.