7:50 pm, October 29, 2008
300 guests joined dealer and Volkswagen UK staff, to celebrate the opening of Chelmsford Inchcape Volkswagen.
For an added twist, the event was run as a ‘Traditions & Icons’ themed party, with many historic cars alongside brand-new models!
Chelmsford’s Volkswagen Club ensured Volkswagen’s history was in strong attendance. Models included immaculate VW Campers, Beetles, even a MkI Golf Convertible.
Traditional family fair games and refreshments added to the event, and ensured all were thoroughly entertained.
Inchcape Volkswagen’s brand manager, Darren Thompson, said: ‘The evening was a fantastic way of thanking everyone for their hard work and patience while the new building was built. It’s taken over three years of planning, but it’s been worth the wait.
‘I’m delighted so many people came along to celebrate with us, enjoying the traditional family favourites and viewing Volkswagen cars – both old and, of course, new.’
There’s certainly no missing the new dealer. It’s built on the site of the former Marconi Marine head office site – and includes one of the largest indoor used car centres in the UK. Over 100 cars can be displayed.
It’s based around a glass atrium, and spans three floors. New cars are on the ground floor, with that used car centre taking the first floor. The total construction spans 3.7 acres.
Robin Woolcock, MD of Volkswagen Group UK Ltd, said: ‘The new building will provide a unique sight for anyone passing and also provide all customers with the best possible facilities to service and purchase new and used vehicles.
‘The staff at Inchcape Volkswagen should be proud of what was a fun-packed, successful evening.’
There was even a competition on the night: lucky Alex Hill won a trophy, and a trip on the London Eye, for setting the fastest time on a Volkswagen Beetle racing game.
