Gary Peaker of Dalton Motor Parts to expand thriving business

Gary Peaker bought Dalton Motor Parts in King Street before the Covid-19 pandemic with the aim of improving and expanding the business.

Dalton Motor Parts was first set up in 1988 and had two previous owners before Gary took on the reins.

Gary, who also owns a number of vape shops in South Cumbria, had previously worked in the nuclear industry but had a keen interest in cars.

Gary said the business was in decline when he took over and felt determined on returning it back to its former glory.

He said: “My background was in nuclear but I always liked cars.

“I wanted to see the business come back to its strength. It was in decline when I bought it, the previous owner wasn’t interested in driving the business forward.”

Two years later, the business now has five members of staff, three vehicles, new offices and plans to open a power repair tool centre next door.

Gary said: “It’s doing really well now and we’re increasing our customers every week.

“We have lots of garages on our books now.

“It just keeps going from strength to strength.”

Describing the business as a cross between Halfords and EK Motor Factors, the company fits vehicle parts in their on-site garage as well as supplies them, says Gary.

And the success has been reflected in the garage’s impressive annual turnover.

Gary said: “The turnover has increased by £250k-£300k annually since I have taken over. There’s been massive changes. People who have come through have said it looks like a different place.

“It just looked run down previously; the shelves weren’t regularly filled and now they’re always stocked.

“And we’re planning on expanding in the future. We’re currently building a new office and will be looking for a new office staff member soon.

“We’re also setting up a power repair tool centre in a new base next door.

“I love it. We’re looking forward to seeing the business keep growing and see it go from strength to strength.”