A MAJOR car dealership with hundreds of employees has closed down a SECOND showroom.
Underwoods, which began trading in 1981, closed its Skoda dealership in Colchester after representing the Czech brand more than 19 years.
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Just a fortnight later, the dealer group revealed its Vauxhall dealership in the Essex town was also closing.
Underwoods has represented the British car company there for more than 25 years.
Managing director Gerry Wiggins said the closures were part of “changing times within the motor industry”.
He said: “The decision to close was not one of Underwoods’ making, as we have been successfully representing Vauxhall in Colchester for over 25 years.
“These are changing times within the motor industry, including online sales.
“Vauxhall has decided to reduce the number of dealers in their network, with an increased focus towards online sales.”
“We greatly value our customers and would like to thank all the Underwoods customers who have been so supportive over the years, returning time and time again for their next vehicle and servicing,” Wiggins added.
“We will continue to provide maintenance and warranty repairs to our customers at our authorised Vauxhall locations in Clacton, Sudbury and Tiptree.
“Customers will be contacted as usual when your vehicle is due to be serviced or an MOT is required.”
Most of the staff at the dealership have retained their jobs.
