19 February, 2014
One of the planet's premier Jaguar restoration firms is to move its headquarters under new expansion plans.
Classic Motor Cars (CMC) will recruit additional workers in its move to a new 60,000 sq ft Shropshire base, following a surge in demand for its products and restoration services globally. The Bridgnorth complex will be unveiled in the coming month, offering around 40,000 sq ft of production space, including a dedicated showroom and new paint shop. A further 20,000 sq ft will be set aside for bespoke classic car storage.
CMC, which sees half of its business exported, has grown from three to 32 staff since it started in 1993. It now plans to recruit nine more employees over the coming months. It has won a growing global reputation for award-winning restorations and offering upgrades, including power steering and suspension across the marque.
Managing director Nick Goldthorp said: “With our additional space and improved facilities we will now be able to offer painting and trim work to owners of any classic or vintage motorcar.”
CMC is also heavily involved with the training and developing of tomorrow's young engineers. It is partnering with the Institute of the Motor Industry and the Guild of Specialist Engineers in developing apprenticeships for the restoration industry.
Mr Goldthorp added: “The only way we can be sure of growing and having a long-term skilled workforce is by developing young people.”
The UK restoration business is worth more than 4.5 billion to the economy, employing around 28,000 staff.
Classic Motor Cars is today acknowledged as one of the globe’s leading restorers of classic Jaguars and is responsible for restoring some of the most historic models ever created. Mr Goldthorp started Vicarage Motor Cars in 1982 and launched Classic Motor Cars after selling his controlling interest in the late 1980s.
When investing in such prestigious models, it pays for drivers to get peace of mind with a reputable specialist car insurer. Footman James already offers classic car insurance to a large number of classic Jaguar owners and has relationships with the JEC (Jaguar Enthusiast Club) and the JDC (Jaguar Drivers Club.)
Caption: Footman James partners with Jaguar Enthusiasts Club and the Jaguar Drivers Club.
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