As of an announcement on the 31st March, the long-standing dealership of Jack Lilley (in Ashford and Romford) has been sold to the Lind Group. Lind also own BMW and Harley Davidson dealerships and are known for bringing the 'car-buying-experience' to motorcycle dealerships.
Jack Lilley Ltd was established in 1959 and became one of the first Hinckley appointed Triumph dealerships in 1991. They were chosen for their experience and expertise in promoting European motorcycles, and in that 26 year relationship have played a major part in helping the Triumph brand establish itself in the UK. Initially operating from their Shepperton premises they soon outgrew themselves and moved to their current larger Ashford store. In 2013 they acquired an additional Triumph dealership in Romford.
Dave Lilley, Managing Director of Jack Lilley Triumph, commented: "The Lind Group is renowned for delivering a first-class customer experience, possessing unrivalled sales and aftersales knowledge and putting customers at the heart of its business, all of which were key attractions for us. This acquisition not only ensures that this will continue, but it also puts us in a strong position for future success. We are very much looking forward to joining the Lind Family."
A staff member at the Romford shop reportedly said that they knew nothing about it until the day before the announcement, however Jack Lilley management insist that all staff knew a month before. The Romford and Ashford stores were shut on the Friday with the only vehicle in the Romford car-park being a pick-up with both Lind Group and Harley Davidson on it. The reason given for the closure was a 'stock take'. Lind Group are well known for re-modelling their dealership acquisitions so expect there to be a lot of changes to both stores. It's more than likely that both stores will adopt the new Triumph look-and-feel experience as shown by the Carl Rosner store in South Croydon and might even move premises to give them more space.
Both stores are expected to continue on trading. However if previous experience is to go by, it's possible the stores will be renamed - probably to Triumph Ashford and Triumph Romford dropping the Jack Lilley name.
