It was back in 2013 that David Brown founded the car company that bore his name, with product plans around an idea to "echo the classic sexiness of the 60s... with modern usability, drivability and reliability" following soon after. The Speedback GT was the result of that, soon followed up by the Mini Remastered. And, to be fair, the cars have found customers; so many have, in fact that David Brown has sold a majority share in the firm.
While continuing as Company Director and Brand Ambassador, Brown has ceded control to UK Advanced Industrials, a company backed by David Roberts and Richard Westley. The new CEO will be Eddie Kembery, "an extremely experienced executive" who has previously held posts at Ford, Honda and Aston.
We're told to expect "a period of growth and exciting new product launches" following the takeover, with further international expansion suggested, although without too much changing. "Bespoke craftsmanship is core to the David Brown Automotive brand, as is the level of customer service which sets the standard for a luxury automotive business in the UK. As the company continues to grow and expand its offering, its dedication to these core qualities will be central to everything it does" is the official line from the press release, with UKAI's Westley adding that the aim is to "add significant value through our knowledge, experience and extended network of related businesses."
An exciting time for the brand then, and especially positive given the predicament the UK car industry currently finds itself in. More investment for more jobs building cars - albeit jolly expensive ones - has to be good news. We'll leave the final word to David Brown, given this is his company and all: "I am so proud of what we have achieved in so few years, and that is testament to my management team and all those involved in the business. We have fantastic products that appeal to a global audience, but we also have aspirations for continued growth and a desire to launch exciting new projects." Ideas on a postcard for the David Brown 60s' throwback that's coming next...
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