Halifax-based Leo Group has bought North East Mercedes-Benz dealer Bell Truck and Van for an undisclosed sum.
The environmental and recycling business will develop a van sales and service centre at the dealer’s Stockton-on-Tees site, where staff are working in temporary facilities.
When completed, the facility will relieve pressure on Bell Truck and Van’s Billingham, County Durham workshop, which will be used solely for trucks. The dealer is also looking to build a truck centre in the area.
Leo Group operates 100 Mercedes-Benz trucks, but this is its first time owning and managing a commercial vehicle dealership.
As part of the deal, Ben Sowersby – previously MD at Northside Truck and Van – becomes MD and co-owner of Bell Truck and Van. He said: “The reputation Bell Truck and Van enjoys in the North East – and beyond – owes much to the enthusiastic and dedicated team I am privileged to lead.
“I am committed to ensuring that as well as investing in our facilities, we invest in our people to help them fulfil their potential. This acquisition represents a tremendous opportunity; not only for Leo Group, but also for me.”
