News

Press Release - 4 December 2007

Vauxhall Retailer Association Gives £100,000 to BEN

Gerard Barclay, Chief Executive of BEN, the Automotive Industry Charity, was delighted to be the recipient of a £100,000 cheque during a business meeting, at Vauxhall’s Retailer Convention in Tenerife on 1 December.   Vauxhall Motors has a long and proud history of supporting BEN and the Vauxhall Retailer Association was pleased to be able to make its own contribution to BEN’s National Fundraising team with this unprecedented award.

In accepting this generous donation, Mr Barclay said “We are indebted to Peter Swire, Vauxhall Franchise Board Chairman, for his dedication and ongoing commitment to BEN.    His support in helping promote BEN to his retail network has been exceptional and this is very encouraging.    I would also like to thank all of you here today for your part in supporting Peter and for the opportunity of working closely with my team.”  Mr Barclay then went on to present each of the Retailers with a Certificate in recognition of their generosity.
 
Peter Swire responded, “The Vauxhall Retailer Association is absolutely delighted to present BEN with this cheque.   Our retailers have developed a close association with the BEN Team having involved them over the last three years in our key meetings and conferences.   This involvement has provided a greater understanding of what our own motor industry charity has to offer and  its short to long term needs to raise funds.   It has also resulted in several independent retailers supporting BEN directly through performance related giving and payroll contribution.”    He went on to say, “As reported by the press recently Vauxhall has taken the number one sales spot several times this year showing an increase in market share over 2006.  This is due to a fantastic product range and to the hard work of our Retailers.  All our efforts are paying off and we wanted to share our success with BEN and its beneficiaries.”   

In closing, Mr Barclay stated, “Although the UK franchised dealer network has seen some rationalisation over the past few years there are still a significant number of retail outlets (c, 5,500).    This presents a major opportunity for BEN.  I am keen to work with other automotive franchises and would like to meet with other Dealer Councils or Franchise Boards in early 2008 to discuss potential initiatives.  Those wishing to make contact with me should telephone my office on 01344 620191.

Further information:
Lorna Russell, Media Relations Officer, BEN
T: 01344 294765 M: 07920 138187 Fax 01344 622042
lorna.russell@ben.org.uk

Editors’ Notes
BEN is the Automotive Industry Charity, the only occupational charity for those who work or have worked in the automotive and related industries. Founded in 1905, the Charity provides practical help, support, advice and friendship to more than 15,000 men and women and their families every year. In addition BEN provides a home to over 350 individuals who reside in one of its four residential centres in the UK and offers day care facilities at its centre in Coventry.
Website: www.ben.org.uk