Karamu Holden Joins the Ebbett Group
Hastings based Karamu Holden has joined one of New Zealand’s larger dealership groups after agreeing a deal to sell a majority shareholding to the Ebbett Group.
Ebbett, established in the Waikato in 1928, currently offer multiple leading vehicle brands from twelve dealership sites around the North Island, recently adding the Kia, Hyundai, Isuzu and MG brands to their portfolio.
Karamu Dealer Principal, Dave Howarth, said:
“We’re excited to join up with the Ebbett Group. In addition to size and expertise, they were also one of the leading Holden dealers in the country and bring great experience in continuing to support Holden customers with the highest levels of service whilst bringing new brands into the sales operation.”
“We have just brought in one of Europe’s best selling brands in Renault, and there’ll be more to come. Whatever new brands we bring in, our existing customers can expect the same level of outstanding personal service they have always received.”
He added, “I’ve known Ben and Walter at Ebbett for a number of years and have always been impressed with their commitment to building a customer-focussed business. That’s a key value we share and that gave me confidence when deciding a future together would be a great move.”
Karamu Holden will change their name to “Ebbett Hawkes Bay” as part of the deal to align under the Ebbett brand.
Ebbett Group Managing Director, Ben van den Engel, said “We’re delighted to get Dave and the team on board. They run an excellent business, are a really good culture fit and give us a valuable presence on the East Coast. This is a good deal for both businesses and when that’s the case the customer is always the winner!”
The changeover from Karamu Holden to Ebbett Hawkes Bay will take place from 1st September.
