Waylands Automotive has started work on a multi-million-pound Volvo eight-car showroom and workshop, which will become Volvo Cars Reading’s new home in November.
Volvo Cars Reading opened for business towards the end of last year under the ownership of Waylands Automotive, headed up by ex-Ridgeway Garages CEO John O’Hanlon.
The opening is part of a five-year plan to build the group into a £100m-turnover business.
The facility at the Reading Gateway, just off the A33 and a short drive from the M4, will have space to display 50 used cars.
The showroom is to Volvo’s new Volvo Retail Experience design with Scandinavian minimalist styling and featuring a coffee lounge and free WiFi.
This new approach includes teams of Personal Service Technicians (PSTs) who work on cars in pairs rather than individually, with a view to halving customer waiting times.
O’Hanlon said: “It has been a very exciting journey so far, and we are looking forward to taking the next step and moving into the new premises.
“We have been focused on establishing our reputation among Volvo drivers old and new in and around Reading, as well as delivering a first-class service.
“It will be a fantastic day when we can welcome our customers to a modern and comfortable environment which truly reflects the Volvo brand.
“The build is taking place just over the road from our current premises, which gives us the opportunity to watch and manage the development as it happens.”