What New Brands Are Available at Drive Motor Retail’s £3 m Darlington Showroom Relaunch?

Drive Motor Retail revamps Darlington Motor Village

After a £3 million refurbishment, Drive Motor Retail is set to reopen its Darlington Motor Village site this weekend. The investment marks the first full overhaul of the centre in more than two decades and signals a fresh start for the Car Dealer Top 100 firm in the North East.

Seven marques under one roof

The state‑of‑the‑art showroom will host seven distinct brands: Citroën, Peugeot, Fiat, Abarth, Vauxhall, Leapmotor and MG. In addition, the facility will provide after‑sales support for Fiat Professional commercial vehicles. This consolidation means customers can compare a broad range of new cars without leaving the site.

Job creation and recruitment

The redevelopment has created more than ten permanent positions, and Drive Motor Retail continues to recruit skilled technicians to service the expanded offering. The company hopes the new jobs will strengthen the local automotive workforce.

Opening weekend agenda

Doors open at 08:30 am on Saturday and 10:00 am on Sunday, closing at 17:00 pm and 16:00 pm respectively. The launch weekend will feature a display of Abarth and Fiat models supplied by the North East Abarth Owners Club, as well as a special "76‑plate" new‑car event. Food and refreshments will be available for visitors.

Drive Motor Retail will also use the occasion to support Parkinson’s UK, with a fundraising activity to be announced in the days following the opening.

Apprentice recognised as a rising star

While the showroom reopening is a headline event, Drive Motor Retail also celebrates the achievement of one of its apprentices. Tayla Bennison, an apprentice spray painter at the group’s Fix Auto Redcar bodyshop, has been named among Bodyshop Magazine’s 30 Under 30 Rising Stars.

The accolade highlights young professionals who are making a tangible impact in the automotive repair sector. Bennison is completing her apprenticeship specialising in vehicle refinishing, helping restore cars after collision damage.

Industry praise

Jason Bond, bodyshop director at Drive Motor Retail, praised Bennison’s dedication, noting that her recognition reflects the commitment and technical skill she has demonstrated early in her career. He added that the award underscores the valuable contribution of the next generation of technicians to the sector, and acknowledges the support provided by Fix Auto Redcar throughout her apprenticeship.

What does this mean for North East car buyers?

With seven marques now available side by side, shoppers in the Darlington area can compare a range of European, Chinese and British models without travelling to multiple dealerships. The modernised facilities also promise faster, more efficient after‑sales service for both private and commercial customers.

Overall, the £3 million redevelopment not only refreshes the showroom experience but also strengthens the local economy through new employment and skills development.

For more details on upcoming events, job opportunities or the Parkinson’s UK fundraiser, keep an eye on Drive Motor Retail’s official communications.