DAEWOO has announced its first franchised dealer partners as part of the restructuring of its UK network.

Arnold Clark, the Millennium Group and Roadworthy will become the main focus for Daewoo's new 'hybrid' business model of direct sales outlets and franchised dealers.

Daewoo announced its new strategy in May as it attempts to increase its UK market share by growing its presence across the country with a target of 120 outlets - three times its current number of outlets.

The deal will see Arnold Clark and the Millennium Group opening new outlets in Dundee and Nottingham which will be fully operational in October.

Arnold Clark will also take over, through a franchise arrangement, the existing Glasgow outlet and Roadworthy will do the same in Bristol. Daewoo's existing personnel at Dundee, Bristol and Glasgow will be transferred to the new franchise outlets, while a small reduction in staff at Nottingham is expected.

Under the new system, a dedicated head office team will continue to provide support for leasing customers and assist showroom-based fleet sales specialists.