The business has had a major revamp as it prepares to celebrate two decades in the industry
James McConville from Solo Cars(Image: Andrew Teebay Liverpool Echo)
A family-run business has unveiled its £400,000 renovation to its Anfield site. Solo Car Sales, Liverpool’s independent used car dealer, was opened in 2008 by director James McConville and dad Stephen.
The brand combines Stephen’s wealth of car knowledge after years of selling on a smaller scale, with James’ ambition. Having been open for almost 20 years, Solo Car Sales has grown substantially each year, claiming it is the city’s “biggest and most-trusted”. James, and Stephen, from Old Swan, have sold more than 13,000 cars to date, with thousands of reviews across Google, TrustPilot and AutoTrader, which the two believe echo their claim.
Dad of one, James, previously told the ECHO how he went from selling autographs from footballers to selling their cars. The 37-year-old gained knowledge of business through his dad’s work and took an interest in making money himself.
James McConville and dad Stephen at the opening of their renovated site
James said: “I always had a business interest. I would be an autograph hunter. I would go and get things signed by all the Liverpool and Everton footballers and then sell them on eBay.”
After finishing school, James headed to Liverpool John Moores University to study business economics but soon realised it wasn’t right for him and returned to work with his dad.
He said: “Since 2008, we’ve expanded from one unit to four, whilst also adding a local storage yard to facilitate our continuous growth. For me, Solo Car Sales is so different because of the service we offer.
“Our aim is always to set a new standard for how buying a car should feel and we act accordingly, putting people before profit, transparency before tactics, and long-term trust before short-term gains.
James left university to work in the car industry(Image: Andrew Teebay Liverpool Echo)
“For years, my dad and I felt that the showroom wasn’t reflecting who we are and how we operate. Our valued staff and customers alike deserved better facilities, and that’s what we’ve created after hours and hours of hard work.”
The brand has become renowned for selling lavish models for the likes of their celebrity customers Bukayo Saka and LFC’s Tsimikas, as well as more popular cars that are purchased week in, week out.
James added: “We had four offices and quite basic facilities but now, our showroom truly reflects what Solo Car Sales is with seven offices, a staff room, fantastic customer facilities, EV chargers and professional hand over bays.
Some of the cars on offer at the site
“We’re very excited to welcome our customers – both familiar faces returning and new – to the showroom and give them the true Solo Car Sales experience in much more fitting surroundings.”
With James leading the team in terms of customer journey, his goal is to always instil a level of honesty, transparency and genuine help.
He added: “Car dealerships can get a bit of a bad rap. I’m passionate about changing the perception of the used car industry by raising the bar on care, clarity and genuine connection.
“It’s about how our team makes our customers feel, and the majority of our customers are the people of Liverpool. They’re our people that make Solo Car Sales successful and we never forget that.
“As we look to the future with our new showroom, our goal is to continue doing what we do – looking after the people of Liverpool. And to continue cementing our brand as one of the best and most reliable retailers in the country.”