Auto firm undeterred by very trying times

By Matthew Legg

Last updated 11:57, Friday, 25 July 2008

BOSSES at a Carlisle car dealership which has survived four vandal attacks and an economic downturn still have their eyes on expansion.

Determined: Kevin and Stephen Bell, of Border City Autos in Carlisle

Border City Autos, in Water Street, was opened by Carlisle brothers Kevin and Stephen Bell 12 months ago.

And despite enough setbacks to last them a lifetime, they have just launched a new website and are considering moving to new premises at Kingstown.

In the latest attack, about £10,000-worth of damage was done to stock after paint stripper was thrown over a fence.

Stephen, a former boss at city venues Bar Solo and Café Sol, said: “It has been difficult at times, but we feel we are really bucking the downward trend at the moment. We have stuck to our principles of good customer service and the right price.

“Our staff have contacts in the industry which are second to none and we have decades of experience between us.

“The credit crunch is a factor and people are definitely hanging on to cars for longer, but people will always need to buy a car for work or to take the kids to school.

“The website is essential. The biggest change in the car market in the last few years has been the impact of people buying on sites like eBay and also being able to compare prices.

“People are much more savvy about car prices now, they tend to narrow their selection down to two or three models and then look up what they should be paying. It means you have to really be on your toes when it comes to pricing.”

The company’s website is at www.bordercityautos.co.uk.