MANHEIM Europe, the new corporate identity for all Manheim Auctions and technology firms throughout Europe, has signalled ambitious expansion plans in the high tech arena with the appointment of Jonathan Holland as director of Manheim Interactive Services.

Holland, who is currently director of manufacturer sales, will be responsible for promoting all Manheim's technology products throughout the UK and Europe, while continuing to liaise with the company's manufacturer customers in the UK.

Manheim Auctions has boosted plans for European expansion by becoming the first auction house to address the French motor dealers' annual congress. Holland spoke at Le Conseil National des Professions de l'Automobile last month and demonstrated the internet-based auction facilities available from Manheim, such as Cyberlot. He is in discussion with vendors throughout Europe to implement continent-wide on-line facilities.

Manheim has already signed up more than 1,000 franchised and non-franchised dealers for Cyberlot - an online selling mechanism - since it launched in January, with vendors including major finance companies, motor manufacturers and leasing firms.

Manheim Auctions has also appointed Alan Hale as group sales director, responsible for all physical auctions in the UK. He was formerly senior operations director at VELO.

John Bailey, chief executive of Manheim Europe, said: 'The appointment of Hale shows that physical auctions are and will continue to be our core product.'