Cargiant, based in West London, confirmed it will cease retail operations after more than 50 years in business, following a recent announcement that it had been unable to secure a viable future.
The company, which operates from a vast 46-acre site in Park Royal, began winding down sales earlier this month after concluding a consultation process that explored possible options for survival. Despite those efforts, the business said closure was unavoidable.
At its peak, Cargiant held more than 2,000 vehicles on site and sold over one million cars during its five decades of operation, becoming one of the UK’s most recognisable car supermarkets.
The closure places around 500 jobs at risk, with staff numbers having already fallen slightly in recent years. Employees had been engaged in consultations for weeks leading up to the final decision.
The site itself, located near major transport links including the Elizabeth Line and the planned HS2 route, is estimated to be worth around £100 million. Its owner, Geoff Warren, has built a multibillion-pound business through the dealership.
In a statement, the company said the decision had been taken with “great sadness” and paid tribute to its workforce, thanking staff for their professionalism and engagement throughout the consultation process.
While retail operations will end, Cargiant confirmed that some after-sales services and support teams will remain in place for a period to ensure existing customer commitments are honoured.
The closure marks a significant shift in the UK’s used car market, with the loss of one of its most prominent long-standing players.
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