A STRONG fleet market helped dealer group Sanderson Bramall increase profits before tax by 44% to £6.13 million for the six months to 30 June, 1996. The results include a half year contribution from Thrifty Car Rental, which was an associated company last year.

The company is aiming to extend its retail network over the next three years, with new dealerships opening in Middlesbrough, Burnley, Colne and Mansfield before the end of 1997. The results are the latest in a line of impressive financial performances by the major franchised dealer groups, following the recession when thousands of dealers went out of business. Sanderson Bramall runs 25 car and nine commercial dealerships throughout the UK.