PRE-TAX profits at dealership and contract hire group William Jacks increased from £1.488million to £1.61million for the six months to July 31 compared to the same period last year on turn-over up from £68.462million to £82.063million. The company said the financial results at its year-old contract hire company, AutoMotive Strategy, were 'in-line with expectations'.

Sales of new vehicles increased 34% over the period and used vehicle sales rose by 14%, with the firm operating a 'very strict used vehicle stocking policy'.