FAST-GROWING dealer group Dixon Motors has picked up its first Fiat and Alfa Romeo franchises with the purchase of two dealerships in Yorkshire. The company acquired Fiat dealership Whitehead and Hinch of Horsforth and JCT 600's Fiat and Alfa site in Leeds for a total of £1.37 million, increasing the total number of franchises represented to 16.

Dixon also confirmed the sale and leaseback of premises in Sheffield to release £5.9 million of development capital for further expansion. Chief executive Paul Dixon said: 'The cash raised from the disposal will be used to invest in growth and development opportunities and therefore continue to improve earnings and shareholder value.'