DEALERSHIP group Gowrings has announced a 33% increase in operating profits to £721,000 (1997: £541,000) for its motor division, on turnover up 11% to £34.6 million (£31.2million) for the first half of the year. The group has reaped the benefits of centralising the administration and fleet operations of its three main Ford dealerships and three bodyshops, achieving better margins on both new and used car sales.

But it was the aftersales parts department which proved the stellar performer, boosting its profits by 41%, alongside strong growth from the company's Ford Rapid Fit operations. Gowrings also runs a chain of 31 Burger King restaurants, and as a plc achieved pre-tax profits of £401,000 (£318,000) on turnover of £43.3 million (£38.6million).