Two colleagues at the West Country car dealership group FJ Chalke, which operates Nissan dealerships in Yeovil and Wincanton, are each celebrating 40 years’ service with the company.
Steve Fowler, managing director of the firm, and Scott Young, branch director at Vale Motors in Wincanton, embarked on their FJ Chalke careers in November 1985.
Fowler joined FJ Chalke as a Qualified Technician, with his career encompassing the roles of service manager, aftersales manager and general manager, before his promotion to the role of managing director in 2019.
Young joined FJ Chalke as an apprentice technician before becoming a service advisor, service manager and then branch director five years ago.
Fowler said: ‘‘The motor trade has changed enormously since 1985. We have seen a shift from mechanical to digital systems, the rise of electric and hybrid vehicles, huge improvements in vehicle safety systems and a growing focus on sustainability.
Young added: ‘‘The transformation has been dramatic. We’ve seen rapid technological advancements, stricter environmental standards, and constantly evolving customer expectations.’’
Pictured are FJ Chalke chairman George Chalke (centre), with Scott Young, left, and Steve Fowler.