ONE of Essex’s longest established car dealerships is moving out of its home town after nearly 100 years.

Established in 1924, Quest Motor Group was founded in Maldon by Jim Gozzett and is now run by grandsons Robin and Martin.

The family-run business announced it will be moving out of its home on Wycke Hill Business Park on May 31 after the challenges the Covid-19 pandemic brought for the industry.

While it has not been confirmed if there will be any job losses, the company said it is endeavouring to minimise redundancies and “ensure there is a position at our Braintree site for as many of our Maldon employees as possible”.

Quest Motor Group in Wycke Hill, Maldon

Quest Motor Group in Wycke Hill, Maldon

Starting off with Vauxhall and Bedford franchises on Maldon High Street, the company went from strength to strength, opening a second dealership in Braintree during the 1950s.

It was not until 2007 that the company outgrew its Maldon dealership on the High Street and relocated to Wycke Hill, expanding its offering with SAAB, Citroen and Suzuki brands.

Owners Robin and Martin Gozzett said: “The Maldon dealership’s relocation was a difficult but necessary decision.

“We must adapt our business in line with rapidly changing consumer behaviour, ensuring we continue to meet customers’ expectations while strengthening our business for the future.

“Over the past few years, we have been investing in our digital strategy, with the ability to buy or finance your car online.

“We feel confident that with the great reputation we’ve built in Essex, our customers will continue to take advantage of our more convenient and affordable options at our Braintree dealership.

“Our Maldon customers will soon be receiving a letter from us, explaining that our Maldon dealership will be closing and our commitment to continue to support them for all their vehicle requirements going forwards.

“We have enjoyed working with the Maldon community for almost 100 years, and we hope all our lovely customers will make the short journey to visit our Braintree dealership where we will make them most welcome or use our convenient online options.”

Quest Motor Group is the oldest Vauxhall dealership in Essex and one of the oldest privately-funded Vauxhall dealers in the UK.

Customers from Maldon will still be taken care of at the Braintree branch in Rayne Road.

For details, visit questmotorgroup.co.uk.