Sir Arnold Clark dies 10 | 04 | 2017
THE DOYEN OF the Scottish automotive industry, Sir Arnold Clark, has died at the age of 89 surrounded by his family. The Glasgow-born billionaire, who opened his first showroom in 1954, went on to grow Britain's biggest independent group of car dealerships.
Sir Arnold, who was knighted in 2004, passed away peacefully, "surrounded by his family”, a statement said. It added, he was ”an inspiration" and said "the family will continue to carry on his vision".
The company which bears Sir Arnold's name has more than 200 dealerships across the UK, with more than 27,000 new and used cars in stock. It posted profits of £110.4m in 2015 on sales of £3.35bn.
Sir Arnold’s huge automotive company spawned from a Morris Ten-Four he purchased for £70 with the demob money he received when he left the Royal Air Force in the early 1950s.
After restoring the car to its former glory, the then young Arnold sold it on for a profit. Clearly aware he had the potential to make more money, he began to buy and sell cars and opened his first showroom in Glasgow's Park Road.
His unrelenting ambition for growth saw him build not only Scotland and Britain’s biggest independent car dealership group, but also the largest in Europe.
In addition to his huge collection of classic cars, Sir Arnold also bought the 78ft racing yacht Drum from Duran Duran's lead singer Simon Le Bon in 1988. He used it to compete in UK inshore and offshore races.
Today a statement from his family said: "Sir Arnold Clark passed away peacefully this morning surrounded by his family. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and a great friend and employer to many.
"He was an inspiration and the family will continue to carry on his vision. He will be greatly missed."
A further statement was issued by his company, Arnold Clark Automobiles, which said it was saddened to announce the passing of its founder and chairman.
"Sir Arnold was a truly inspirational business leader and influential public figure,” the statement said.
"His unsurpassed work ethic and strong family values led him to build a market-leading automotive retailer that continues to go from strength to strength.
"Sir Arnold's entrepreneurial ideals continue to be at the heart of the business.
"His personal philosophies will continue to inspire everybody who works in the business, and will be the cornerstone of its future growth and continuing success.
"Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.”
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Jim McGill