Ebbett axes plans for Nelson site

The Ebbett Group has pulled the pin on plans to open its first dealership in the South Island because of changes in the economy.

The company announced in March 2022 that it was going to open a business in central Nelson to add to the 18 dealerships it operates across the North Island.

It has now confirmed the site, which was due to cater for Skoda, GWM and Haval brands and feature a used vehicle and service operation, will not go ahead.

A spokesperson for Ebbett Group says planning for the Nelson venture started more than a year ago. “Unfortunately, in that time the New Zealand economy has changed significantly which means the business case no longer makes sense,” they add.

They say the company felt cancelling its plans before opening was the “responsible decision” in order to minimise staff and customer impact.