EXPANDING car retailer Dixons Motors saw pre-tax profits increase 58% to £8.7 million (1996: £5.5 million) on turnover up 57% to £413.6 million (1996: £262.6 million) last year, its fifth consecutive year of growth. Record profits came as the company almost doubled new car sales from 9,801 to 17,778 and saw used car sales increase from 13,892 to 19,980.

The company, which increased in size dramatically through acquisition last year, now has 48 retail outlets on 32 sites representing 17 different manufacturers and five motorcycle superstores representing seven franchises.

Profits were boosted by a 52.7% rise in aftersales and parts turnover from £43.4 million to £66.3 million against a backdrop of increasing vehicle reliability and extended service intervals. The Group's bodyshop operations, branded as Dixons Car Clinics, continued to make a substantial profit contribution and the Dixon Microsurgery brand continues to progress.