Lifetime achievement award for Stoke-on-Trent car dealer

An independent car dealer in Stoke-on-Trent who has spent almost 30 years in business has received one of the motor industry’s highest honours.

Umesh Samani, owner of Specialist Cars Stoke and Harris Motor Company, was presented with the Motor Trader Lifetime Achievement Award during the prestigious Motor Trader Independent Dealer Awards held at The Belfry Hotel & Resort in Sutton Coldfield.

The award recognises individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the UK motor industry throughout their careers.

It comes after Umesh received another Lifetime Achievement trophy at the 2023 Car Dealer Used Car Awards.

Umesh said his latest award is one he never expected to receive.

He said: “When my name was announced, I genuinely sat there in disbelief. Walking to the stage to a standing ovation from so many friends, colleagues and people I respect within the industry is something I’ll never forget.

“My first thought was of my late wife, Sue. We started Specialist Cars Stoke together back in 1997 with one simple aim – to sell quality, hand-picked cars and treat every customer exactly how we’d want to be treated ourselves. She would have been incredibly proud.”

Specialist Cars Stoke opened its doors in July 1997, while Harris Motor Company celebrates its tenth anniversary this month.

Away from his own businesses, Umesh is chairman of the Independent Motor Dealers Association (IMDA) and has helped grow the organisation into one of the country’s leading trade associations.

He added: “The IMDA was founded to give independent motor dealers a genuine voice.

“This award may have my name on it, but it also belongs to the founders, committee members, partners, volunteers and everyone who has helped build an organisation that exists solely to support independent dealers.

“We are passionate about raising standards, sharing knowledge and ensuring independent businesses continue to thrive.”