The new operation will be located in Coventry, a heartland for the UK’s manufacturers, and will complement the sales programmes at Manheim Remarketing’s super-centre at Bruntingthorpe.

Paul Grimsley, Skoda National Rental and Used Vehicle Manager, commented: ‘I am delighted that Manheim has chosen to reopen the Coventry facility.  Using Coventry will provide us with the opportunity to improve engagement levels with the Skoda network due to its accessibility and the opportunity to create a unique Skoda ‘experience’. We have worked with Manheim for many years and I am pleased that it has shown its commitment to our relationship by dedicating a site specifically to manufacturer closed sales.’

Mike Pilkington, Managing Director, Manheim Remarketing said: ‘Despite the challenging times we are committed to investing in our infrastructure in order to meet changing customer requirements for flexible physical auction as well as online sales channels. Our investment in Coventry is part of our long term strategy and the new auction centre will support customers seeking an experience tailored to their requirements from a convenient, central location. Manheim Remarketing’s presence at Bruntingthorpe and in Birmingham, complemented by this new operation at Coventry, will provide an unrivalled network of auction centres in the Midlands.’

The centre will open in March 2012 with Skoda UK confirmed as the first manufacturer to take residency following its commitment to a new 2012 programme of monthly auctions.