Motus Commercials acquires Carlisle-based Solway DAF and three service dealerships

Motus Commercials, a division of Motus Group (UK) Ltd, has announced the addition of Solway DAF to its growing portfolio, solidifying its position as the largest DAF dealer group in Europe.

With the inclusion of Solway DAF, Motus Commercials now operates a total of 34 DAF dealerships.

Solway DAF has been representing DAF for 45 years, and operates a sales dealership in Carlisle and three service dealerships located in Penrith, Workington, and Dumfries. The four locations employ nearly 100 people who will be retained by Motus Commercials. Peter Fullelove, the former owner of Solway DAF who has led the business since 1986, will remain in place to ensure a smooth transition for both customers and staff during the acquisition process.

Commenting on the sale, Fullelove said: "Whilst it has been a very emotional decision for me to sell the business to Motus, their track record for business growth and people development means I have chosen the right purchaser for this business, which has meant so much to me personally for so many years."

Matt Lawrenson (pictured), MD of Motus Commercials, added: "Opportunities to acquire strong, well-run businesses like Solway DAF are rare, and we are delighted to welcome them to our extensive DAF dealership portfolio. They align perfectly with our current business plan, and we are excited to further develop their operations within our group. We remain committed to delivering the exceptional levels of service that local operators have enjoyed from Solway DAF for many, many years."

Lawrenson emphasised the importance of customer support in maintaining DAF's market leadership in the UK.  "A key part of what has made DAF Trucks the market leader in the UK has been the support DAF operators expect, and get, from the whole DAF dealer network,” he said. “This new addition to our UK DAF footprint can only add to the contribution of Motus Commercials to the outstanding DAF UK customer support profile."