An independent Bradford motor dealership has marked its second anniversary by announcing plans to expand.

Clive Brook Volvo Ltd is creating a new corporate sales team to tap a pent-up demand for company cars. It is also planning a major facelift of its Canal Road showroom later this year.

And JCT 600, based at Apperley Bridge, has launched a beefed up website to cater for its growing online business, which now accounts for about 40 per cent of sales.

Clive Brook Motors has appointed fleet specialist Brian Mears to spearhead the drive for corporate sales.

The move follows the success of the company’s retail business since managing director Clive Brook bought the former Harratts Group dealership.

Clive Brook said: “I believe the time is right for us to move into corporate sales. During the recession many companies delayed replacing cars and I believe there is a large amount of pent-up demand out there. We will be focusing our efforts locally and Brian has already opened up a few doors for us.”

Clove Brook Motors’ sales have been boosted by new Volvo model launches and the Government’s recently extended car scrappage scheme. The dealership has sold more than 700 new cars, a similar number of used cars and more than over £1 million worth of parts.

Meanwhile, online sales at JCT 600 have risen from 26 per cent to about 40 per cent in the past two years.

The family-owned company has invested heavily in IT, including redesigning its website to make it easier and quicker to use.

It includes a new car specification and pricing module and an improved online servicing and MoT booking system with registration number recognition. Customers can also have a ‘live chat’ online with a sales representative.

John Tordoff, chief executive, said: “There is no doubt that the technological revolution has completely changed shopping habits – most people now start their search for a new car by looking at dealer websites. We already have more than 16,000 visitors a month to the JCT600 website and expect the number to continue rising.”

JCT 600 has also developed a number of Facebook fan groups, a Twitter following and a YouTube channel to make customers aware of news and offers, as well as job vacancies, manufacturers’ news, car launches, competitions and winter driving tips.

Mr Tordoff said: “Despite its 60 year heritage, JCT600 is a forward-looking company which is embracing all of the latest social media tools to build long term relationships with its customers.”