New AvailableCar and Cox Automotive agreement sets sights on long term collaboration

Car supermarket group AvailableCar has signed a new five-year exclusive partnership agreement with Cox Automotive.

The new deal will see the independent group sell all remarketing stock from its four retail sites and its car buying service, IsYourCarAvailable.com – estimated to be up to 12,500 cars per year - through Manheim Auction Services. It also paves the way for a closer partnership between the two businesses, with Cox Automotive set to support AvailableCar deliver on its ambitious plans.

Michael Bell, Chief Executive of AvailableCar comments: “As we continue to grow and refine our business, it’s vital we have partners in place who share our values, can support our evolving needs, and complement – not compete with - our retail activities. I am confident we have that in Cox Automotive. We’re not motivated by short term gain; this is a move that plays an important contribution towards the future-proofing of our business.”

Sam Panayides, Sales Director at Cox Automotive comments: “AvailableCar and Cox Automotive have a longstanding relationship but this new contract is a step-change in terms of our mutual commitment. The long-term nature of the agreement is testament not only to the performance we’ve demonstrated in our time working together but more importantly our commitment to supporting our retail customers without compromise. We are beyond thrilled to be announcing this partnership and very excited for the opportunity ahead.”

Manheim Auction Services is taking responsibility for AvailableCar’s full remarketing volume. Stock will sell out of Manheim’s Birmingham, Leeds and Washington physical auctions weekly, with all stock naturally available online via Simulcast. The new programme started on Monday 20th February; Leeds (Mondays at 10:00) and Washington (Fridays at 10:00) are new sales for AvailableCar, while Birmingham (Wednesdays at 10:00) is a continuation of the existing programme but with additional volume.

Michael adds: “Since first awarding Manheim a proportion of our volume eighteen months ago, we’ve been very impressed with the team’s approach and the performance they’ve delivered. The transition was straight-forward and the hybrid physical and online sales programme is delivering well for us.”

AvailableCar is a family-owned business with stores in Castle Donington, Sutton-in-Ashfield, Cannock and Leeds, and retails in excess of 25,000 vehicles per year.