Independent car dealer Umesh Samani is celebrating being presented with the Lifetime Achievement trophy at an event described as the Oscars of the motor trade.
Umesh, who runs Specialist Cars in Cobridge, Stoke-on-Trent, established his business in 1997 and is also founder of the Independent Motor Dealers Association, the only association of its kind in the UK.
His contribution to the industry was recognised at this year’s Car Dealer Used Car Awards, held in London.
Umesh said: “I had no idea and didn’t think I’d be getting anything like this.
“You see people who have spent all their lives doing this and I guess I have spent my life in this industry, but it’s just not something that I expect of myself.”
James Baggott, editor-in-chief of awards organiser Car Dealer Magazine, said: ‘‘Umesh is a genuine legend of the used car industry.
“A true gentleman, he’s built a solid reputation with his dealership over the decades and has devoted his life to helping others in the profession.
“I am truly delighted for him – this accolade is thoroughly well deserved.”
Awards host Mike Brewer, known for presenting TV motoring shows, said on the night: “Umesh has run his own successful used car dealership for nearly 30 years.
“Both he and Specialist Cars have collected numerous accolades from us in the last decade, being celebrated in particular for their customer care and social media. But it’s his commitment to helping other independent used car dealers that really impresses.
“Umesh was a founding member of the Independent Motor Dealers Association, which has helped hundreds of like-minded used car dealers to come together, share their experiences and support each other.”
The awards celebrate operators working in the used car market across the UK.
Umesh won two accolades at the 2013 awards – Dealers’ Dealer of the Year as well as Social Media User of the Year – and was the only dealer to get two trophies that night.
Him and his business have also picked up various highly commended titles over the years.
Fanastic news – and a lovely gent, too!