Renault Trucks invests £6 million in new Scottish site
Renault Trucks UK & Ireland is investing £6 million in its wholly owned Renault Trucks Scotland business. The company will move to a new site on James Street, Bellshill, in 2027. The facility sits next to its current premises and is around twice the size. Renault Trucks has also strengthened its Scottish management team. Robert McKechnie becomes General Director, and Peter Murray takes the newly created role of Commercial Director.
Renault Trucks Scotland to double its footprint in Bellshill
Work on the James Street site should begin in early 2027. Renault Trucks aims to have the new location operational in August or September 2027. The move gives Renault Trucks Scotland significantly more capacity to grow its sales and aftermarket operations. It also forms part of the manufacturer’s longer-term ambitions for Scotland and its wider Renault Trucks 2030 strategy. The investment reflects the company’s confidence in the Scottish market.
The purpose-built facility will offer a modern environment for customers across Scotland. It will feature a fully equipped 4,040 sq ft workshop with six drive-through service bays. An expanded team of skilled technicians will increase workshop capacity, and customers will enjoy modern facilities.
Stronger aftersales and a dedicated sales team
The site will also enhance parts operations. Dedicated Class 7 MOT, tachograph testing and brake testing capabilities will strengthen the aftersales offering. A dedicated sales operation will sit alongside the workshop. An experienced team will advise customers across Scotland on the full range of new and used commercial vehicles.
Aymeric Larcher, Managing Director, Renault Trucks UK & Ireland, says: “Scotland is a strategically important market for Renault Trucks and one where we see considerable potential for growth. This investment, together with our strengthened management team, will give our Scottish business the capacity and capability to strengthen the support we provide to operators both today and as their needs evolve.
“Customers need more than a choice of vehicles. They need the right advice, expertise and support to find the solution that works for their operation, whether that is diesel, electric or a mix of technologies across their fleet. Our new site will give our team the space and facilities to build on our complete customer offering, while strengthening our presence in Scotland for the long term.”
Robert McKechnie joins from Volvo Trucks
Robert McKechnie started on 19 October as General Director of Renault Trucks Scotland. He is responsible for operations, including the move to the new facility and aftermarket activity. Robert arrives from Volvo Trucks, where he most recently led the Glasgow West site. He began his career as an apprentice technician and joined Volvo in 2014. He then progressed through the workshop into senior management, building extensive aftermarket experience.
He says: “It’s a fantastic time to be joining Renault Trucks Scotland, with such a significant investment in the future of the business. Peter and the team have built a strong business with excellent customer relationships, and I’m looking forward to building on that success.
“The new site represents an exciting opportunity for us to expand our capabilities and support even more customers across Scotland. My priority will be to work closely with the team to deliver a smooth transition to the new facility, while continuing to provide the high levels of service and support our customers expect.”
Peter Murray takes on new Commercial Director role
Peter Murray, who has led Renault Trucks Scotland as Dealer Principal, becomes Commercial Director. He will focus on developing the commercial potential of the Renault Trucks brand across Scotland. Peter will take a 360° approach, spending more time with customers and working closely with partner dealers and bodybuilders. His remit covers trucks and vans, new and used vehicles, service contracts and contract hire. He will also coach and support commercial teams across Scotland to build market presence and create further sales opportunities.
Peter Murray said: “This is a big opportunity for Renault Trucks in Scotland and one I’m looking forward to getting stuck into. We have great customers, strong partners and a team that knows this market inside out. The investment in the new site gives us a platform to go further.”
Commenting on the strengthened management team, Aymeric Larcher continues: “I am delighted to welcome Robert to Renault Trucks Scotland. He brings a wealth of operational and aftermarket experience that will be invaluable as we prepare for the move to our new facility. Peter’s strong knowledge of the Scottish transport industry and established customer relationships will be key to driving further commercial growth.
“This is an exciting next step for Renault Trucks Scotland and for the wider Renault Trucks business. We are investing for the long term, giving the business the infrastructure and leadership it needs to grow and ensuring we are well placed to support our customers for many years to come.”
