New multi-million pound auction site opened

Eastbourne Car Auctions has moved to a new, purpose-built complex.

The 45-year-old, family-owned business, which sells more than 7,500 cars and vans annually, will hold its first auction at its new almost three-acre site - more than double the size of its existing facility - today (Wednesday, September 26).

Since opening its doors in 1967, Eastbourne Car Auctions has been owned by the Mitchell family and managing director Jon Mitchell (pictured), said: “We out grew our existing site which we moved to in 1987 some time ago, but it has taken a number of years to find a suitable site in Eastbourne ripe for development.

“We anticipate that with the increased space that the new facility provides couple with our reputation, marketplace knowledge and vehicle auction experience will lead to further increases in business.”

Mitchell, who has been managing director since 1990 expects the £3.5 million investment in the new complex will result in the creation of up to 10 full-time jobs this year - indeed some additional staff have already been recruited - notably in sales and administration roles.

In addition to a state-of-the-art auction hall at the new site - 48 Brampton Road, Eastbourne, which is the site of a former go kart track - the new complex also offers space for up to 600 cars and vans, cafeteria/refreshment facilities and a business suite offering WiFi access enabling traders, for example, to access electronic auctions while attending a physical auction.

The company is also underlining its use of leading-edge technology with all vehicles passing through the auction hall displaying a QR Code which can be scanned with a smart phone to obtain details of the model. Additionally, QR Codes are being used on social media outlets to highlight vehicles going under the hammer in future sales.

It currently holds a fleet and leasing sale every Wednesday starting at 11am, a main agent part exchange sale and general car sale every Friday at 6pm and a commercial vehicle auction on the first Wednesday of each month at 2pm.