Welsh Renault dealer honoured

One of the most successful dealers in Wales and the longest standing Renault dealer in the UK has been awarded the prestigious Tom Pryce Trophy.

David Gravell, of Gravells Motor Group, was presented with the award at the National Assembly bulding in Cardiff on November 28, and the business was later commended by Secretary of State for Wales, Rt Hon Peter Hain PC MP, special guest of Welsh Motoring Writers (WMW) at the group's annual dinner.

Mr Gravell received the 2009 Tom Pryce Trophy at a ceremony in the National Assembly building hosted by Helen Mary Jones (Assembly Member Llanelli) and supported by Rhodri Glyn Thomas (Assembly Member Carmarthen East).

Founded in 1932 by Tom Gravell MBE, David’s father, Gravells is the longest-serving Renault dealership in the UK and this year celebrates 55 years with the company.

Commenting on the award, Mr Hain said: “Gravells are, so clearly, worthy winners of the coveted award. Such home-grown business success is a vital component in the Welsh recovery from the economic downturn.”

In presenting the award to guests of honour David Gravell and his two sons, Jonathan and Ian, who now run the business, WMW chairman Huw Thomas said: “Gravells has made an enormous contribution to the cultural, sporting and public life of Wales.

“This goes way beyond any usual sponsorship activity and is true to Tom Gravell’s philosophy that success in business life should be reflected by a real contribution to the community.”

Sponsored by Renault UK, its managing director, Roland Bouchara, said: “Gravells normally enjoy double Renault’s national market share and are at the top of our sales charts in Wales – a country where we currently lie second in the retail market. There is a simple reason for this achievement – Gravells care. They care about the job, their customers, their staff and their community.”

The Welsh Crystal Vase Trophy was inscribed, “CYFRANIAD HYNOD I’R GYMRU GYFOES” (A remarkable contribution to contemporary Wales).