7:00 am, October 21, 2010
ONE of the UK’s oldest Seat dealers opened its doors for a double celebration last week.
Formerly known as Alexandra Bridge Cars – one of the oldest Seat dealers in the country – the new Pulman Seat dealership hosted a VIP evening to celebrate the news.
Local bands, authentic Spanish cuisine, a Seat Leon touring car and a mint-condition Mk1 Seat Ibiza entertained more than 150 customers and VIP guests on the night.
The Sunderland-based dealership also celebrated the 25th anniversary of Seat in the UK hosted the lavish bash to mark 25 years with the sporty Spanish brand and, more importantly, becoming part of the Pulman family.
Guests were treated to a lively question and answer session with England cricketer and local lad, Paul Collingwood, a raffle in aid of the NSPCC raised almost £200.
Pulman Seat franchise manager Chris Slater, said: ‘This was a great occasion for the dealership and we were absolutely delighted that so many people, including lots of our long-standing and valued customers, were able to join us.
‘Firstly, we wanted to celebrate the fact that we were among the handful of dealerships that helped launch Seat UK a quarter of a century ago and have played an important role in helping to make the thriving brand the enormous success it is today.
‘We also hope everyone left with the impression that things will be even better now we’re part of Pulman which has grown to become one of the very best Volkswagen franchises in the country thanks to its out and out commitment to delivering a fantastic customer experience.’
Seat UK director Peter Wyhinny paid tribute to the team and the handful of other original SEAT dealers that helped bring the brand to the UK: ‘Launching a new brand into a fiercely competitive market place is never easy, but that small initial group of professional and enthusiastic dealers helped Seat UK hit the ground running and build real momentum.
‘The skill, experience and contacts of the original dealers were obviously instrumental in allowing the company to get a foothold, build sales and grow the network.
‘Today, as a thriving and well-established marque, it’s wonderful to see members of that original group still with us and going strong.
‘The future looks very bright for Pulman Seat, Seat UK and Seat customers in the North East.’
Be sure to read about Car Dealer Magazine’s celebration of 25 years of Seat in the UK in next month’s issue.
by JAMES BATCHELOR
