Prestigious award for Wolverhampton car dealer group at the 'Oscars of the motor trade'

For the second time in three years, the Steven Eagell Group was presented with the Diversity and Inclusivity trophy for its efforts to make the company a great place to work for all employees.

The firm is best known for being the UK’s largest Toyota and Lexus dealer group – it represents both brands at dealerships in Bilston Road – but also has a thriving used car operation with more than 2,500 vehicles in stock at any one time.

The Used Car Awards ceremony, held at The Brewery in London, celebrates the best and brightest in the sector, showcasing businesses that go above and beyond for their customers and excel in other areas too.

Each year, thousands of automotive retailers, MOT testing stations and workshops put themselves forward. Every entrant undergoes a rigorous judging process before the winners are announced at the glittering event.

In the fiercely competitive Diversity and Inclusivity category, assessors were looking for projects and initiatives that support and reward colleagues, plus genuine efforts to make a workforce representative of all sections of society. 

The Steven Eagell Group excelled in all areas, earning them the top spot.

A delighted Jamie Eagell, Operations Director, said: ‘‘We’re over the moon about winning this award – it feels amazing. The Diversity and Inclusivity Award is one we have won before and we are very proud to have received it again.

‘‘We have worked very hard in this important area over the past couple of years – it is something we take incredibly seriously. We have increased our employee value proposition, we’ve invested in our people, and we have introduced a new range of perks and benefits for all our teams.

‘‘At the moment there are almost 1,600 people employed at the Steven Eagell Group and this award goes to every single one of them.’’

James Baggott, founder and editor-in-chief of Car Dealer Magazine, commented: “For a car dealership to be successful – or any business for that matter – its employees must feel happy and valued. 

‘‘Working in the motor trade can be enjoyable and rewarding but it can have its challenges so people need to feel supported and appreciated. It’s all about equality, fairness and respect and the Steven Eagell Group is doing fantastic work in this area. They richly deserve the trophy they have won tonight.’’

The awards night was compered by the TV presenter and automotive industry legend Mike Brewer, who said: “Very well done to the Steven Eagell Group. Looking after your team in the right way is hugely important. Genuinely inclusive working environments help everyone thrive and prosper.’’ 

The Car Dealer Magazine Used Car Awards have been celebrating the top operators in the UK’s used car industry since 2012, rewarding manufacturers, car dealerships, workshops and exceptional individuals working in the sector. They are organised by the UK’s leading automotive trade title, Car Dealer Magazine.